Moving to Four Corners in the middle of winter can feel intense. The weather shifts fast, roads can ice over, and the first day in your new home often comes with a punch list. You want a safe landing, warm rooms, and clear access so you can unload without drama. This guide gives you a practical, local checklist to get utilities, heat, access, and movers squared away, plus where to look for official updates. Let’s dive in.
What winter looks like here
Four Corners sits in a mountain valley where winters are cold and snowy. Expect sub‑freezing temperatures, quickly changing conditions, and regular snow that can make roads slick. Work windows between storms can be short, so planning matters.
To set expectations and watch the forecast, check the NOAA U.S. Climate Normals and the National Weather Service for the Bozeman area before you schedule your move.
Set up utilities and heat before arrival
Your top priority is a warm, functional home on day one. Contact providers early and confirm activation dates and emergency contacts.
Electric, gas, and fuel
- Transfer or activate electricity and natural gas if available.
- If the home uses propane or heating oil, confirm the tank level and winter delivery procedures. Ask about emergency fill‑ups and whether drivers need a plowed path to the tank.
Water systems: municipal vs. well
- Municipal: confirm meter access and how to turn water on in winter.
- Well: learn the well head location, pressure tank, and pump controls. Ask the seller or service company about winterization, insulation around exposed pipes, and whether heat tape is installed where needed.
- Find the main interior water shutoff and exterior hose bib shutoffs.
Septic essentials
- Locate the tank and drainfield. Avoid driving or staging heavy vehicles on the drainfield.
- Get the last service date and keep a local septic service contact handy for emergencies.
Safety checks
- Schedule a furnace or boiler inspection and change filters.
- If there’s a wood or pellet stove, have the chimney or vent swept and inspected.
- Test smoke alarms and CO detectors. Keep heat set no lower than about 50–55°F to help prevent frozen pipes.
Prepare driveways, access, and roof
Winter access is a team effort. Knowing who maintains what will save you time and stress.
Driveway and road responsibilities
- Confirm who plows your access: state, county, HOA, or you. For questions on county roads and policies, start with the Gallatin County website.
- If your driveway is long, steep, or narrow, book a private plow service and clear a turnaround and staging area before movers arrive.
- Plan where to pile snow so it does not block mailboxes, sightlines, or cover the septic field.
Roof, gutters, and ice dams
- Clean gutters and downspouts so meltwater can drain away from the foundation.
- Ice dams form when attic warmth melts roof snow that refreezes at the eaves. Reduce risk with adequate attic insulation and ventilation.
- If snow loads are heavy or your roof is steep, hire a professional for roof snow removal.
Exterior plumbing
- Drain hoses and shut off exterior valves. Install insulated faucet covers.
- Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces or unheated garages; use heat tape where recommended.
Plan movers and timing for winter
Booking the right help and timing your day around weather can make or break a winter move.
Choose local winter‑savvy movers
- Ask about experience with ice and snow, and what gear they bring for traction and protection.
- Confirm liability and cargo insurance limits in writing and clarify rescheduling policies for storms.
Timing and contingencies
- Aim for mid‑day move windows for more light and slightly warmer temperatures.
- Watch the extended forecast and build buffer days around your date. If a major storm is forecast, discuss postponement or a staged move.
- If trucks cannot reach the house, coordinate for a cleared staging area and plan to shuttle items with smaller equipment.
Safety on move day
- Pre‑treat walkways and steps with sand or ice melt and keep a shovel handy.
- Stock extra warm clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, and hand warmers for the crew and helpers.
- Use floor runners and door protections. If carry distances are long, plan shrink‑wrap and dollies to protect items and floors.
Move‑day essentials and first tasks
Have a few critical items ready so you can solve problems quickly.
- Day‑one bag: medications, IDs, chargers, headlamps, warm layers, boots, gloves, blankets, snacks, water, basic tools, and a small first‑aid kit.
- Tools: shovel, ice melt or sand, broom, extension cords, tarp or plastic sheeting.
- Heating: verify the system is on and working before unloading. Use portable heaters with caution and proper ventilation.
- Plumbing: know your main water shutoff; keep pipe repair tape and a plumber’s number handy.
- Documentation: photograph driveway, walkways, and steps before and after to record any weather‑related damage.
Prevent and respond to frozen pipes
- Keep indoor heat at a safe minimum and open cabinet doors where pipes run along exterior walls.
- If a pipe freezes, locate the shutoff, open affected faucets, and apply gentle heat to the frozen section. Never use an open flame.
- After thawing, watch for leaks and add insulation or heat tape as needed.
Budget for winter extras
Be ready for seasonal costs that do not show up in a summer move.
- Private snow removal or plowing for driveways and staging areas
- Emergency fuel delivery or initial tank fill
- Furnace tune‑up and chimney sweep
- Weather‑related mover surcharges or extra labor time
- Short‑term storage if a storm delays the move
- Supplies: ice melt, sand, pipe insulation, heat tape
Local resources to check
When in doubt, go to official sources for road, weather, and safety updates.
- Weather and climate: review the NOAA U.S. Climate Normals and monitor the National Weather Service.
- State roads: track conditions and alerts through the Montana Department of Transportation traveler information.
- County services: find road, public works, and emergency management contacts on the Gallatin County website.
Your next step
Set your move‑in date, confirm who plows your access, and get utilities and heat squared away now. If you want a local plan tailored to your property and timing, Bozeman Realty can help you coordinate vendors and keep your move on track. Search Bozeman listings or schedule a personal consultation with Jon.
FAQs
Who clears the road to my driveway in Four Corners?
- It depends on jurisdiction. State highways are handled by the state, county roads by the county, and private driveways or some local roads by owners, HOAs, or private contractors. Confirm with the seller and check the Gallatin County website for county maintenance policies.
How do I reduce ice dams on a Four Corners home?
- Keep gutters clear and confirm attic insulation and ventilation. For recurring issues, consider professional roof evaluation and eave heat cables.
What are the biggest move‑day risks in winter?
- Exposure to cold, slips and falls on ice, heating failures, frozen or burst pipes, and blocked access for trucks. Plan for traction, warm gear, and a confirmed heating system.
Should I use an out‑of‑area mover for a winter move?
- Whenever possible, hire a mover experienced with Gallatin County winters. For long‑distance moves, build in weather buffers and expect possible delays.
How do I protect my septic system during the move?
- Do not drive heavy trucks or stage pallets on the drainfield. Confirm a staging area on a hardened surface, document site condition, and discuss liability with movers.
