top of page
Home Owner and Buyer Resources
This page contains several resources helpful to everyone from new home buyers, to long time home owners. We are continually updating this site with new articles that are geared toward educating home buyers and home owners on how to properly select and maintain your home. If you don't see an article on a topic that you are interested in, please let me know.
Buying & Selling Resources
-
A History of Home Inspections
-
Preparing for a Home Inspection (Seller)
-
Seller Pre-Inspection Checklist
-
6 Areas That Every Home Inspection Should Cover
-
Homebuyer's Guide (ASHI)
-
Choosing the Right Inspector
-
Locate a Licensed Inspector
-
About the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
-
For Your Protection - Get a Home Inspection. HUD 92564-CN
-
Oregon Home Inspector Standards of Practice
-
Washington Home Inspector Standards of Practice
-
Home Inspector Consumer Protection Notice (Oregon)
Home Safety resources
-
The Dirt on Open Stair Risers
-
Properly Placing Carbon Monoxide Detectors
-
Fire Extinguishers Overview
-
Why a CO Detector?
-
Enhanced Smoke Alarms (2020)
-
2016 CO Detector Law
-
2016 Smoke Detector Law
-
Range Anti-Tip Device
-
Carbon Monoxide Info Center
-
Stair Safety (Video)
-
Deck to House Attachment
-
Smoke Alarms At Home - NFPA
-
Smoke Alarm Installation Guide
electrical safety resources
-
Understanding GFCI (Ground-Fault-Circuit-Interupter)
-
How to Test GFCI Receptacles
-
AFCI vs GFCI
-
SHOCK RISK! Discussing Bootleg Grounds
-
Ungrounded Receptacles (The Issues and the Cure)
-
Introducing Smart Lock GFCI
-
FPE Stab-Lok Panel Hazards
-
Tamper Resistant Receptacles
-
Extension Cord Safety
-
Home Electrical Safety Video
-
What are power surges?
-
Surge Protection Devices
-
9 Types of Electrical Receptacles in your home by Bob Villa
-
Why Isolate Neutrals at Sub-Panel?
other home safety resources
-
May is National Electrical Safety Month
-
Asbestos - What are my options?
-
Where is Asbestos?
-
Lead Poisoning Home Checklist
-
January is National Radon Awareness Month
-
Buyers & Sellers Guide To Radon
-
A Citzens guide To Radon
-
Health Care Providers guide to Radon
-
Radon in Oregon Video
Basic Annual Home Maintenance Checklist
The following list is in by no means exhaustive and is meant only for reference.
Heating and Cooling Systems
- Check and replace air filters
- Inspect ductwork
- Vacuum air vents
- Schedule annual maintenance for your HVAC system
Plumbing
- Inspect and repair leaky faucets
- Check for clogs in sinks, tubs, and toilets
- Check the water pressure
- Inspect exposed pipes for signs of corrosion or damage
Electrical
-
Test and replace smoke detector batteries
-
Inspect electrical outlets and cords for damage
-
Check the electrical panel for tripped breakers
Exterior
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Trim trees and shrubs away from the house
- Inspect the roof for damage or leaks
- Check the siding for damage or rot
Interior
- Inspect and repair caulking and grout in bathrooms and kitchens
- Test smoke and CO detectors (Replace unit at 10 Years)
- Check for signs of pests or infestation
Appliances
-
Check and clean dryer vents
-
Clean and maintain the refrigerator and freezer
-
Inspect and maintain the dishwasher, stove, and oven
Miscellaneous
-
Test and replace batteries in garage door opener and remote
-
Inspect and repair garage door
-
Check and repair locks and deadbolts
-
Hire a professional to inspect and clean the chimney
ELECTRICAL
-
Options for Repairing Ungrounded 3-Prong Electrical Receptacles
-
Why Isolate Neutral Line at Sub-Panels
PLUMBING
RENOVATING TIPS
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
MISCELLANEOUS
-
Summer Maintenance Checklist
-
Fall Maintenance Checklist
-
Understanding your homes systems
-
Retaining Wall Responsibility
home maintenance and improvement resources
maintenance
repairs and improvements
Mechanical Terms
Commonly Used Acronyms & Abbreviations (With Links)
bottom of page