House numbers should be clear enough so that police, the fire department, paramedics, etc., can quickly locate properties in an emergency. House numbers are often the only way that first-responders can identify their intended destinations. A number of jurisdictions have begun enforcing laws through strict fines for homeowners who do not comply with laws that […]
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Winterization is the process of preparing a home for the harsh conditions of winter. It is usually performed in the fall before snow and excessive cold have arrived. Winterization protects against damage due to bursting water pipes, and from heat loss due to openings in the building envelope. Inspectors should know how winterization works and […]
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A growing number of homeowners in the U.S. are downsizing to homes smaller than 1,000 square feet, and, in some cases, smaller than 100 square feet. This transition to smaller homes, known as the Small House Movement, is adhered to by people who believe American houses in general are too large, wasteful and energy-inefficient.Small houses […]
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While health-promoting and fun, trampolines can also be dangerous when they’re misused or if they’re poorly designed.This trampoline is enclosed and safely placed away from trees, power lines and other overhanging objects Trampoline Facts and Figures The first modern trampoline was constructed in 1936 by University of Iowa gymnasts George Nissen and Larry Griswold. Trampoline-like […]
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Whether you’re buying a new home or looking at some upgrades for your current living space, the chances are that a few smart home upgrades have crossed your mind as part of the process. It’s easier than ever to build the futuristic smart home of your dreams, and thanks to so many disruptive products in […]
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A VA loan is a mortgage loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA loans can be very helpful for veterans Like FHA loans, VA loans are backed by the federal government in order to protect lenders against default, an assurance that removes barriers to home buying for prospective homeowners when they […]
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USDA loans are housing loans that are backed through the Rural Housing Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).The USDA offers competitive loans for borrowers in rural areas Purpose of USDA Home Loans In the wake of the mortgage crisis in 2008 and 2009, lenders have become more cautious, so it’s harder for home […]
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Burglary is a crime of opportunity. And burglars don’t want to spend a lot of time looking through a home to find things of value to steal, which is why there are obvious locations that they always check. That means that there are ways to outsmart them by hiding your valuables in not-so-obvious places, and […]
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Attic pull-down ladders, also called attic pull-down stairways, are collapsible ladders that are permanently attached to the attic floor. Occupants can use these ladders to access their atticsAttic pull down ladder without being required to carry a portable ladder. Common Defects of Pull-Down Ladders Homeowners, not professional carpenters, usually install attic pull-down ladders. Evidence of […]
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Inspectors should be prepared to protect themselves and their clients from the unique challenges posed by flood-damaged buildings. Hazards in and around flood-damaged buildings include the risks of: Good boots can protect against sharp debris in flood-damaged buildings growth of large mold colonies; septic system collapse; trip-and-fall injuries; structural collapse; fire and explosions; toxic sludge […]
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