9 Things Every Homeowner Needs To Know About Their Property

As a homeowner, it's part of the job to learn as much as we possibly can about our home. However, most people do not know all of the below essential information about their homes - until it’s a problem. So the good news is that if this is you, you’re not alone. However knowing the basic safety and essential details about your home can save your health, bank account, and the value of your home. So let’s get started, shall we?

The Radon Level

What the heck is radon? It turns out that radon is one of the noble gases. But unlike neon or xenon which are harmless and inert, radon is radioactive (hence the name). 

Unfortunately, radon is found throughout the soil in most parts of the world, meaning that it is constantly giving off ionizing radiation. Worse still, this radiation can lead to conditions, such as lung cancer. 

Ideally, before you buy a property, you should do a radon test. Radon tests tell you how much of it you have in your soil and around your foundations. 

If you have radon in your home, you can avoid the gas getting in in the future by sealing all cracks around windows and doors. 

The Water Pressure

As a homeowner, you’ll also need to test your water system a couple of times every year. If the pressure is too high, it may damage your plumbing and cause an expensive leak. If it is too low, then it can affect the function of your water-using appliances, such as your washing machine and dishwasher. 

You can check the water pressure in your home using a pressure gauge that you attach to a faucet. Start by turning off all of the water in your home. Then attach the pressure bib and turn on the faucet. You want a PSI of around 60. Lower than 50 or higher than 80 PSI is dangerous and means that you need a plumber to resolve the problem. 

The Property Boundaries

If you’re planning on planting a tree or installing a fence, then you will need to consider your property boundaries. For instance, in the event of tree fall, liability for damages depends on the location of the property line. 

Many properties do not accurately mark their boundaries, so you will want to consult the original plans and deeds. If the plans are not accurate, ask a solicitor to help you and your neighbor draw up boundaries that you can both agree on. It is critical to establish firm boundaries, otherwise you may wind up with issues when you sell your property in the future. Going to your local county recorder’s office or assessor is always a good idea. 

Acceptable Noise Levels

Many people assume that they can make as much noise in their homes as they want. However, in many properties - particularly those in apartment buildings - there may be noise ordinances in place. These are rules about excessive noise or noises that disturb other residents. If you break a noise ordinance, you may receive a letter asking you to change your habits, or a visit from the police. 

If you don’t know about noise ordinances in your area, you can visit your local city’s website or zoning office. These usually have information about where various ordinances apply. 

The Signage Rules

Most local neighborhoods have home-made signage outside of them for things like yard sales, lost pets and so on. However, in many cases, putting up a sign outside your home or nearby is illegal. In some places, it may be illegal to put up signs or notices on public structures, such as traffic lights or street lamps. Some cities also forbid residents from putting up signs on their front lawn, even if it is for temporary, non-commercial purposes. If you do break the ordinance, you may receive a ticket - not what you want. 

The Status Of Their Carbon Monoxide Detector

Carbon monoxide detectors are absolutely essential pieces of equipment to have in your home. These devices detect the presence of the trace gas, carbon monoxide. Usually, people place these detectors beside boilers and water heater units that can accidentally release the gas into the atmosphere. You can check your carbon monoxide detector is working by pushing the “test” button on the front.

The Age Of Your Locks

Homeowners must also be mindful of the age of the locks in the property. If you’ve already replaced the locks in your home, you can skip this section. However, if they’ve been there for a long time, then you may need to worry. If the property has had the same locks for many years, then previous owners may have cut copies, meaning that they can get into your home whenever they like. 

The Mold Level

Ideally, your home shouldn’t have any mold in it at all. Mold causes respiratory problems and asthma in some people. 

If you notice any mold in your property, you should address it straight away. The underlying cause is usually moisture entering the home. 

If you notice mold rising up from the floor, it usually means you have foundation issues. Water is getting into your home through the tiny holes in the brickwork and then percolating throughout the masonry. You can usually fix this by getting foundation contractors to install a waterproof membrane in front of the affected area. 

Sometimes, water looks like it is seeping in from the top of the walls. Usually, this indicates an easy-to-fix gutter issue. 

The Location Of The Electric Shut Off

In the event of an electrical fire, you’ll need to quickly locate and shut off your electrics. In most cases, the electrical shut off is on the main breaker box. You’ll often see it marked in red with the word “master” or “on/off” printed onto it. If you don’t know where it is, try looking in your basement. If you keep having to shut off your electrics, there could be a problem with one of your appliances.