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St. Andrews: A National Historic District
St. Andrews by the Sea is more than a charming coastal town, it's a National Historic District with over 200 homes dating back more than 200 years. This designation brings both prestige and responsibility, as heritage preservation bylaws govern what modifications homeowners can make to maintain the town's historic character.
Buying in St. Andrews means purchasing a piece of Canadian history. It also means understanding what that heritage involves: hand hewn timber frames, stone foundations built with 18th century techniques, and construction methods that require an inspector who appreciates both their craftsmanship and their age related considerations.
Heritage Bylaw Considerations
St. Andrews' heritage preservation bylaws require specific materials and methods for exterior renovations (windows, siding, roofing). During inspections, I can evaluate whether previous owners made compliant alterations non compliant work may need to be corrected, affecting your renovation budget and timeline.
What Makes St. Andrews Properties Unique
Pre-1880 Construction
Over 200 homes built before 1880 feature hand hewn timber frames and stone foundations requiring specialized inspection knowledge.
Heritage Compliance
Previous renovations may or may not meet heritage bylaws. Non compliant alterations can affect your ability to modify or even insure the property.
Tourism Property Potential
Many St. Andrews properties serve as B&Bs or short term rentals, bringing additional inspection considerations for commercial use.
Seasonal Cottages
Outside the main town plat, "shingle style" seasonal cottages may lack proper insulation or deep-frost footings for year round use.
Year Round vs. Seasonal Properties
While historically a "summer colony" for wealthy families, most homes in the St. Andrews town core are now fully winterized year round residences. However, outside the main town, seasonal cottages remain common, and converting these to year round use requires careful evaluation of foundation depth, insulation, plumbing freeze protection, and heating capacity.
Understanding this distinction is critical for buyers. A charming summer cottage at a great price may require significant investment to become a comfortable year round home in New Brunswick's climate.
What St. Andrews Homebuyers Are Saying
Read reviews from clients I've helped in St. Andrews
Keith Prosser
★★★★★
St. Andrews - August 2025
Prompt, very efficient and provided me the information that I need to improve my home.
Aimee Van Wart
★★★★★
St. Andrews - November 2025
Great service, have used Jonathan twice and always an easy process and pleasant to deal with.
★★★★★
St. Andrews - July 2025
Jonathan was able to complete the inspection to meet the quick deadline.
After reading his report I know that this house has too many issues; but i will speak with Jonathan to discuss his findings.
Jonathan was also able to complete a WETT inspection and water test.
What's Included in Every St. Andrews Inspection
Comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas
Heritage construction evaluation
Thermal Imaging for insulation and moisture assessment
WETT Inspections available for heritage fireplaces
Same day digital report with photos
Post inspection support, call text with any inspection questions