Category Archives: Home Tips

Water Hammer

Q: My water pipes bang every time I turn the water on or off. I have hammer arresters, but somehow, the air cushion has leaked out. How can I re-establish the air cushion in the pipes? Nick M. Pavicic, via email … Continue reading

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Do I need a Tarion Warranty If I Build a New House?

The Ontario New Home Warranty (Tarion Warranty) Program is run by the Tarion Corporation and is mandatory for all new homes built for sale here in Ontario.  If you are building a new home for yourself you do not need … Continue reading

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When can a Landlord Enter a Rental Unit?

The question of when a Landlord can enter a tenants apartment was asked of Realtor Steven Silva. Here is his answer: :… Generally, the landlord must first give the tenant 24 hours written notice, stating when they will enter and for what reason. There are some exceptions, however, such as in the case of an emergency or if the tenant agrees to allow the landlord to enter the unit. In your case, as long as the Landlord gives you 24-hour written notice, she may enter even if you’re not home (for other times Landlords may enter with and without notice visit AskRealtorSteve.com)… Continue reading

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Tips to Reduce and / or Eliminate Basement Leakage

With the coming of the “April Showers”, homes prone to basement leakage may start to experience some difficulties.  Fortunately, basement leakage can often be resolved by some exterior maintenance without spending a huge amount of money.  Foundation walls are not waterproof; they … Continue reading

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Q: “Do I need a Tarion Warranty if I build house myself?”

Question: “Do I need a Tarion Warranty if I build a house myself?” Response:  If you are building a home for yourself here in Ontario and not for resale, you do not need a Tarion Warranty.  As a matter of fact, … Continue reading

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What’s That? Thermostatic Mixing Valve… (Also Printed in March Snap South Simcoe)

Above most hot water tanks today there is a device known as a Thermostatic Mixing Valve also called a hot water tempering device. Water from the hot water tank enters the valve on one end and cold water enters the other end. The valve then mixes the two together so that the water coming out of the taps is hot but not scalding. Continue reading

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AskRealtorSteve: Shingles Blown Off My Roof Normal?

AskRealtorSteve about Your New Home Warranty, Home Repair / Maintenance, Real Estate in general or issues you’re experiencing with your home. This Week’s Question: Hi Steve, we bought a brand new home from a builder in Bradford.  Last year, after … Continue reading

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Wintertime Home Advice – Part Two (Also Printed in February Snap South Simcoe)

Every winter people look for ways to improve their home efficiency to reduce heating costs… …This month I will quickly touch on weather proofing and occupant lifestyles.
Weather Proofing Advice: Gaps in the building envelope allow warm air out and cold air in. On a cold day try…
…Lifestyle Advice: Changing the way you live can reduce your heating needs. Let in the southern light, since direct… Continue reading

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Wintertime Home Advice – Part One (Also Printed in January Snap South Simcoe Paper)

Every winter people look for ways to improve their home efficiency to reduce heating costs. This month I will quickly touch on the heating system and insulation. I will try to stay away from common advice but some things are … Continue reading

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Ask Steve Q&A: Missing Insulation in New Home

The first “Ask Steve” column has been published in the Bradford Times: “The Bradford Times will be introducing a new feature, once or twice a month – Ask Steve. Steven Silva is a Sales Rep with Royal LePage-Your Community Realty, but … Continue reading

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