A deep clean and thorough inspection are extra important for newly built homes during the spring season to help identify and address any damage or defects.
Being vigilant early on preserves a home’s value and is key to getting support from the new home builder’s after-sale warranty.
After a new home is completed, the builder’s warranty provides coverage against a number of potential construction issues for up to seven years. The first spring season is an important time to identify issues and work with the builder since the warranty offers the most coverage during the first year.
Focus spring maintenance jobs on three key areas:
1. Protect indoor air quality
After a long season of closed windows and limited air flow, it’s essential to check and clean out the home’s air circulation systems, including the furnace filters and air ducts, to keep indoor air clean.
For condos, the property management typically takes care of changing air filters, but some condo residents prefer changing theirs more frequently.
In townhomes, change furnace filters regularly to keep dust, pollen, mould spores, and dirt out of the air. A clean filter also helps the furnace run efficiently and minimizes energy bills. The furnace manual includes information on what type and size of filter to use and how often to replace them. The builders should be able to help with any questions about furnace maintenance.
Also vacuum and clean out air exhaust systems, including ducts, vents and covers, as well as the heat recovery ventilator (HRV) and filter, if there is one in the home.
2. Keep water and moisture out
When water enters a home, it can cause damage to the foundation, structure and finishings, eventually causing mould. If any snow and ice remain around the home, clear it away from the roof overhangs, foundation, window wells, walkways and driveway to ensure that meltwater runs away from the house, not towards it. Make sure the eaves and downspouts are kept clear of leaves, dirt or other debris and that water doesn’t pool near the exterior walls.
In high-rise condos or townhomes, snow and ice removal for common elements is typically handled by the condo corporation. But if there is a balcony, terrace or ground-level entrance that’s considered part of the unit, this is the owner’s responsibility.
3. Inspect exterior areas
As the weather warms up, check the home’s exteriors for any defects or damaged items. Start by inspecting the windows and doors, checking the weather stripping and caulking for air or water leaks, and ensuring that all doors, windows and screens work properly. Around the home’s exterior finishes, check for signs of deterioration, like cracks, peeling paint or loose siding. In condos, these areas are likely considered common elements and should be reported to the property manager.
For freehold homes, check the foundation walls for cracks or damage. If you have a deck, check for shaky railings or handrails with slivered surfaces, nails that pop above the wood surface, or decking boards that are split, warped or cupped.
When spotting damage and other issues
Depending on the issue and what caused it, the builder may be responsible for addressing some (or all) of these issues through its warranty. The Home Explorer Tool, available at Tarion’s website, can provide some guidance on whether an issue might be covered to determine if a warranty claim is merited. Team members can also take owners through necessary next steps to file a warranty claim. In general, the builder’s warranty will cover defects in work and materials, but will not cover damage or issues that result from normal wear and tear caused by the homeowner.
Want to take on DIY repairs or improvements? Proceed with caution
If owners are considering taking on repairs or installations, even putting on a fresh coat of paint, these jobs may need to wait. Any alterations made are not covered by the builder’s warranty, so it’s essential to share plans with the builder first to best understand how it will impact the warranty.
Spring landscaping is a common example to be careful of. The grading or sloping around a home is specifically designed to avoid water accumulation and help prevent water penetration into the home. Be careful not to modify this if considering changes to the landscaping or planting a garden.
Be proactive in protecting the investment
A new home is one of life’s biggest financial commitments. Maintaining it comes with a learning curve. That includes learning how to work with the builder to resolve any issues and filing and managing warranty claims if needed.
Peter Balasubramanian is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Tarion, a not-for-profit consumer protection organization that helps Ontario’s new homeowners understand their builder’s warranty and make a claim with confidence.
