Hardwood refers to the species of tree, not the impact resistance of the wood. There is a wide range of hardness among tree species, even among those referred as, “hard woods.” Grain pattern and finish colour can affect the visibility of imperfections. Light coloured wood with a clear grain structure, such as birch, will show impact damage more readily than a strongly patterned wood such as oak.

All wood floors can be scratched, gouged, or dented. Sharp or pointed objects, severe impact, or concentrated weight can mar floor surfaces, i.e., stiletto-heeled shoes can focus the weight of a 125 pound person to more than 2,000 pounds per square inch and damage hardwood flooring.

The builder strives to provide a squeak-free hardwood floor at commencement of warranty. However, as the home matures and the hardwood floor normalizes to its surroundings, it is possible for a new squeak to make itself known.

Within the warranty period the builder may correct the squeak by installing additional nails or screws connecting the hardwood flooring to the substrate. In this instance, face nailing may be used. Any new fasteners installed by the builder shall be countersunk and appropriately filled to blend the repair. Minor colour variations in rectified areas are considered acceptable.

Extended low-humidity indoor environments can cause excessive shrinkage in the wood flooring resulting in loose connections between flooring boards. The homeowner shall maintain indoor humidity levels to prevent excessive drying of materials.

A squeak-free floor may not be attainable and minor squeaks are not a defect.

Damage to hardwood flooring caused by improper humidity levels within the home is excluded from the warranty.

Bevel design is per the manufacturer’s specification.

The bevel on pre-finished hardwood flooring has several functions:

• Helps minimize the appearance of vertical displacement between hardwood strips.

• Helps minimize the appearance of seasonal variation in the gaps between boards.

• Helps minimize splintering along the most vulnerable edge of the board.

Hardwood floors that do not appear to feature bevels are likely site-sanded and site-finished. The larger the bevel and narrower the board, the more apparent the feel of the strip flooring underfoot. The appearance of the bevel can become more noticeable over time on lighter coloured floors such as birch.

Acid or base solutions, chorine cleaners or abrasives will, over time, impair the finish of hardwood flooring and void the manufacturer’s warranty. Vinegar is acidifying and will dull polyurethane finished flooring. Homeowners are cautioned against using commonly available cleaners, soaps, oils, waxes or polishes on hardwood floors. Consumer dissatisfaction with such cleaning products is typically limited to the return of the product purchase price and not the consequential damages that may arise from using the product, even though it may be advertised as “safe” for hardwood floors.

Hardwood manufacturers recommend specific cleaning regimens that the homeowner is to comply with to maintain the warranty protection offered by the manufacturer; this is a homeowner maintenance issue.

Hardwood floors should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Inappropriate cleaning techniques can damage hardwood flooring materials.

Pile direction at seams will be in one direction only with the possible exception of a direction change at a doorway. Although the backing may be tightly fitted, a seam may remain visible and is acceptable. In contiguous (adjoining) carpeted areas, a redirection in pile is acceptable at the doorway.

The visibility of carpet seams will vary with the type of carpet and the lighting conditions.

Where carpets must be cut to execute floor repairs, seams in the repair area may become more visible. The location of carpet seams may vary due to predetermined manufactured widths and installation restrictions.

Seams around stair newels, balusters and risers are often readily visible; this is acceptable.

Carpets should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Inappropriate cleaning techniques can damage carpeting materials.

A lifted carpet along the room perimeter usually indicates that a tack strip is no longer holding the carpet backing adequately. The defect can usually be corrected by re-stretching the carpet.

A ripple in the middle of the carpeted surface is typically the result of dragging or rolling objects over the carpeted.

Carpet manufacturers caution homeowners on exposing carpet to direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Carpet fading can be greatly reduced by closing blinds and curtains. Furniture placement can affect the colour of carpet over time.

Spots or faded areas of carpet resulting from normal wear and tear or improper maintenance or abuse are not defects.

Carpet pieces in the same room or defined area shall be installed with the pile oriented in the same direction. Minor variation between dye lots is acceptable.

Distinctions in colour often appear when the carpet pile is misaligned or if a section of the carpet is combed in a different direction or the fibres compressed.

Variation in colour may occur due to different lighting effects and at transitions between rooms or areas. Direct sunlight naturally causes general colour change or fade; this is normal.

Doorways and thresholds are acceptable locations where pile direction may change.

Carpets shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. Inappropriate cleaning techniques can damage carpet materials. Spots or faded areas of carpet resulting from normal wear and tear, improper maintenance, abuse, or homeowner neglect are not defects.

Rectified areas may be visible as a result of variable lighting conditions or different material dye lots.

The homeowner shall ensure that furnaces and fireplaces are maintained, serviced as recommended by the manufacturer, and functioning properly.

Burning candles can contribute considerable carbon into the air and lead to carpet staining. Lightcoloured carpets accentuate this condition.

Vehicle emissions contribute carbon to the air and homeowners should not disable the passage door closer to an attached garage. This practice defeats the purpose of the fire rated door, but an open door may also permit the passage of carbon and other airborne contaminates into the home.

Large furniture can generate significant point loads and may cause local carpet depressions. The combination of excessive furniture loads and elevated room temperature can permanently damage carpet underlay subjected to point loading. This is beyond the builder’s control. Underlay is resilient in nature and will usually recover in height once the weight has been lifted.

Carpet underpad is often intentionally omitted at the base of stair newel posts and stair nosing.

Carpets shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. Inappropriate cleaning techniques can damage carpet materials. Some carpet fibre loss can be expected as specified by the manufacturer.

Fibre loss due to improper maintenance or abuse is not warrantable.

The homeowner is responsible for following the manufacturer’s recommendations for care and maintenance for the flooring. Swelling of laminate flooring caused by improper homeowner maintenance is not a defect.

Laminate flooring is an engineered product and, as such, is subject to expansion and contraction.

Damage to laminate caused by standing water or major swings in humidity levels within the home is not a defect.

Improper humidity levels within the home can cause separation of laminate flooring. Maintaining humidity levels is the responsibility of the homeowner. Separation of laminate flooring due to improper homeowner maintenance is not a defect.

A localized repair is acceptable. Repairs shall be similar in colour to the original. Some variation in the colour should be expected.

Dimensions for trims and transition strips shall follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

An area of laminate flooring expands and contracts as a unit with changes in humidity. Low humidity levels in a home can cause a laminate floor to contract more than manufacturer’s tolerances causing a gap at the perimeter. If proper humidity levels are re-established and maintained, the fit of the flooring at the perimeter and transitions may return to its original condition without further remediation.

Maintaining proper humidity levels is the responsibility of the homeowner. Gaps in laminate flooring due to improper homeowner maintenance are not defects.

Flooring areas that are rectified are liable to experience some colour variation between original and new flooring materials. Homeowners should consider the impact of dye lot variations when deciding whether to proceed with a repair based only on an existing cosmetic variance.

Variations between dye lots of similar materials within a specified colour pattern are normal. Variations in natural stone (such as marble and granite) are inherent to that product and are acceptable.

Impact damage caused by the homeowner is beyond the builder’s control and is not a defect.

Grout loses water as it dries, often resulting in shrinkage the causes it to pull away from the edge of the stones or to exhibit hairline cracks. Minor cracks resulting from normal shrinkage of the mortar caused by drying or thermal expansion and contraction are acceptable.

Rectified sections of grout shall be of similar type and colour as the original installation but colour variances between original and new grout repairs should be expected; this is acceptable.

Cracks due to impact are not defects.

The width of the grout lines is an aesthetic issue and somewhat dictated by the floor tile design. The wider the line of grout the more prominent it is within the overall floor.

In some instances, a builder may alter the width of a grout line rather than exercising another option such as cutting the finished edge from the tile.

A builder may alter the width of a grout line, which may result in a less cosmetically appealing finish, rather than exercising another option, such as cutting the finished edge from the tile this is acceptable.

Consideration shall be given to the type and placement of tiles.

Grout can be easily discoloured (especially lighter shades) by routine activities that are beyond the builder’s control. Washing tile floors can discolour grout over time.

Rectified joints shall be of the same pattern and similar in colour to the original. Some variation in the colour should be expected.

Sealing grout and maintaining that seal can greatly reduce grout discolouration. Sealing grout and maintaining the seal can greatly reduce grout discoloration.

Sealing grout is a homeowner responsibility.

Some floor tiles are designed with irregular finished surfaces or irregular edge detailing, which may exaggerate the aesthetic appearance of the condition.

Wider grout joints tend to blend tile height variations more than thinner grout lines.

Variations in tile colours due to dye lots are to be expected when making repairs.

Cut edges will be irregular in texture, colour and finish when compared to factory finished tile edges and this is acceptable.

Minor dye lot variations may occur when matching existing and new materials. This is acceptable.

A localized repair is acceptable.

The sub-floor provides an even base upon which finished flooring materials are installed. Changes in height between different flooring materials are caused by variances in material thickness and their different installation techniques. Standard practice is to install a transition strip of a material such as wood, metal or stone to ease the change in height. This height difference is bridged by the transition strip which in itself is typically not flush to either surface; this is acceptable.

The transition strip may be of a different material, dimension or colour than the adjoining floor types.

Damage resulting from maintenance not conducted in keeping with maintenance documentation provided to the owner by the warranty provider or builder additions, deletions or alterations made by the homeowner is excluded from coverage.

Where repairs are required, colour, finish or texture may not have an exact match.

Some deflection due to normal loading and bowing caused by normal drying of wood framing materials is acceptable.

Heavy loads of ice and snow can damage a roof. Normal home maintenance should include professional removal of heavy build-ups of ice and snow.

Excessive bowing of roof framing should be investigated.

Some deflection due to normal loading and bowing caused by normal drying of wood framing materials is acceptable.

Heavy loads of ice and snow can damage a roof. Normal home maintenance should include professional removal of heavy build-ups of ice and snow.

Excessive bowing of roof framing should be investigated.

Severe weather and wind gusts can exceed the design limitations of the shingles. Different shingle types and materials have varying abilities to resist these forces.

Damage caused by an act of nature such as severe weather and wind gusts is not a defect.

Minor dye lot variations may occur when matching existing and new materials. This is acceptable.

Asphalt shingle edges and corners need not be completely flat to fulfill their water deflection function.

Excessive heat build-up can contribute to premature wear on asphalt shingles.

Adequate attic ventilation is necessary to prevent excessive solar heat build-up in the attic that can contribute to curling and cupping.

Homeowners should avoid walking on asphalt shingles.

The primary role of roofing is to protect the home from weather. The shingle pattern is purely an aesthetic consideration.

Shingle tabs require the application of an appropriate sealant as described in the National Building Code.

Interlocking types or those with self-sealing strips may not require sealant.

Self-sealing asphalt shingles installed during cold temperatures should seal when warmer temperatures return. In the short term, unsealed shingles should not affect the weather protection provided by the roof.

The edge of the roof includes the entire perimeter of the roof including gables.

The shingle extension is required to properly direct bulk rainwater into the eavestroughs and away from the fascia along roof gables.

Some asphalt shingles are coloured to provide the appearance of a thickness variation from shingle to shingle; this is not considered a defect.

Roof surfaces need not be completely flat to perform their design function.

Frost patterns on a roof can give the appearance of waviness without the condition existing (e.g., frost outline on sheathing joints and over roof framing members).

Some waviness between framing members may occur even when sheathing is properly installed.

Frost patterns on a roof can give the appearance of waviness without the condition existing (e.g., frost outline on sheathing joints and over roof framing members).

Roofing nails require the protection of overlying shingles to ensure adequate weather protection.

Sealant applied to nails shall not detract from the overall, uniform appearance of the roof when viewed from a normal viewing position at ground level under normal lighting conditions.

This design detail is more commonly found on apartment–type construction involving flat roofs as opposed to single family home construction with sloped roofs.

This design detail is more commonly found on apartment–type construction involving flat roofs as opposed to single family home construction with sloped roofs.

Flat roofs, by design, will shed water at a slower rate than inclined roofs. Flat roofs are to be constructed to handle exposure to standing water over the short term.

Some municipalities require flow control devices to be installed on roof drains to actually retain water in the short term so as not overwhelm the storm drain system.

Some standing water is normal and should dissipate after a few days, weather permitting.

Keeping scuppers and drains free of debris is a homeowner maintenance issue.

Ice or snow build-up around chimneys can contribute to water penetration. Keeping roofs clear of heavy snow and ice is important to help prevent ice build-up.

Damage resulting from maintenance not conducted in keeping with maintenance documentation provided to the owner by the warranty provider or builder is not covered.

Homeowners have a responsibility to mitigate damage to their property and contact the builder immediately upon identification of water penetration.

Ice or snow build-up around chimneys can contribute to water penetration. Keeping roofs clear of heavy snow and ice is important to help prevent ice build-up.

Damage resulting from maintenance not conducted in keeping with maintenance documentation provided to the owner by the warranty provider or builder is not covered.

Homeowners have a responsibility to mitigate damage to their property and contact the builder immediately upon identification of water penetration.

Water dripping off the outside of eavestroughs and downspouts should not be mistaken for leakage.

This issue shall be evaluated in warm weather conditions when eavestroughs are free of snow, ice and debris.

The homeowner has a responsibility for keeping eavestroughs and downspouts free from environmental debris or prevent damage that could cause a blockage or restrict water flow.

The homeowner has a responsibility to ensure that downspout extensions are properly positioned to direct water away from the home.

Eavestroughs should drain effectively, but a minor amount of standing water in eavestroughs is acceptable.

When eavestroughs are provided they shall include proper downspouts and extensions to direct bulk water away from the home.

Homeowners should wait until the rainfall dissipates before assessing eavestrough performance.

The homeowner has a responsibility to keep eavestroughs and downspouts free from environmental debris or prevent damage that could cause a blockage or restrict water flow.

The homeowner has a responsibility to ensure that downspout extensions are properly positioned to direct water away from the home.

Eavestroughs should drain effectively, but a minor amount of standing water in eavestroughs is acceptable.

Industry practice is to install eavestroughs approximately level. Consequently, it is entirely possible that small amounts of water will stand in certain sections of eavestroughs immediately after a rain.

Marginal icicles and marginal surface ice is a natural occurrence on a roof in winter months and can be exacerbated by freezing rain or repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Naturally occurring ice damming (a buildup of ice on the roof over the eaves) may cause damage and is not a defect.

Eave protection, vapour barriers, attic insulation and ventilation should be installed to the requirements of the National Building Code.

Accumulations of ice and snow on roof may also result in ice damming.

Damage resulting from maintenance not conducted by the owner in keeping with maintenance documentation provided to the owner by the warranty provider or builder, or from additions, deletions or alterations made by the homeowner is excluded from coverage.

Removal of snow from the roof is a seasonal maintenance requirement and is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Roof hooks/tie offs are not considered temporary hardware.

Under unusually high wind conditions even properly installed roof vents may allow the passage of some moisture into an attic space. In most situations roof ventilation will exhaust incidental moisture accumulations harmlessly to the outside.

Roof vents should be kept free of obstructions. Inadequate attic ventilation can lead to heat and moisture problems.

Snow covering roof vents can obstruct ventilation.

Damage resulting from maintenance not conducted by the owner in keeping with maintenance documentation provided to the owner by the warranty provider or builder, or from additions, deletions or alterations made by the homeowner is excluded from coverage.

Condensation on the interior surfaces of a skylight may occur if the indoor relative humidity is high. Condensation is not considered indicative of roof or skylight leakage.

Proper maintenance of the skylight is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Homeowners should fully understand the operation of their fireplaces and the damper in particular, before ignition. Flue gasses going up the chimney must be replaced with a comparable volume of fresh (cold) air entering the room. Opening a window may help the chimney draw.

Chimneys may not draw properly if:

• adjacent buildings, trees or high winds create downdrafts

• the chimney is plugged

• the chimney is cold

• the combustion air for the appliance is restricted

• a high capacity kitchen range hood fan is running

Fireplaces shall be used and maintained by the homeowner in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.

Patina of the fireplace firebox, trim and/or glass finish may change with time and use and is acceptable.

Surfaces that are subject to temperature stress will show colour change, and this is normal and acceptable.

Fireplaces shall be used and maintained by the Homeowner in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.

Cleaning products not recommended by the manufacturer may adversely affect the finish of fireplaces and glass finish in particular.

Condensation on piping should not be mistaken for a leaking pipe.

Condensation on cold-water supply lines is not a defect. High indoor humidity is typically the main cause.

If a leak is detected in a water supply pipe, the water supply valve should be turned off immediately until the builder’s representative can assess the condition. The homeowner has a responsibility to mitigate damages.

Damage resulting from improper maintenance by the homeowner is excluded from warranty.

Homeowners have an obligation to mitigate damages and turn off the water supply if the leak has the potential to cause damage to other parts of the home or personal property.

Damage resulting from improper use or alterations made by the homeowner is excluded from the warranty.

The quality or quantity of water from a municipal water supply, water well, or any other source may affect the operation of faucets or plumbing fixtures and is an acceptable exclusion.

Caulking and seals around bathtubs and shower enclosures and door seals require regular homeowner inspection and maintenance.

Variations in water pressure in municipal services can occur during peak periods of demand; this is normal.

Water flow restrictors serve to conserve water and should not be misconstrued as a defect. The design of some fixtures may inherently restrict water flow.

Reduced water supply may result from curb stop, pressure reducing valve or main valve adjustments.

The quality or quantity of water from a municipal water supply, a water well or any other source may affect the water supply and is an acceptable exclusion.

A sudden thump of water supply pipes (commonly referred to as water hammering) may occur when a faucet or fixture is closed abruptly. This is normal and not a defect. Excessive noise may indicate that a pipe is reverberating against ductwork or framing and will require repositioning by the builder.

“Ticking” sounds due to thermal expansion and contraction of water supply and drain lines are normal.

The sound of water flowing through both supply and drainage pipes is normal and not a defect.

The inside temperatures must be kept well above freezing to avoid bursting water pipes. In exceptional circumstances when this is not possible, precautions such as shutting off and draining the water supply system should be taken to prevent freezing. When the colder season approaches, homeowners are responsible for disconnecting exterior hoses, shut off any associated interior valves and drain lines to exterior hose bibs.

Care must be taken to insulate correctly where water lines are located near exterior walls.

Where heat tape is required, homeowners are responsible for inspection and maintenance of the heat tape as part of regular homeowner maintenance.

Frost-free hose bibs will not protect water lines from freezing if exterior hoses have not been physically disconnected from the threaded connection; this is not a defect.

If a burst pipe is detected in a water supply pipe, the homeowner has a responsibility to mitigate damages by immediately shutting off the main water supply valve until the builder’s representative can assess the condition.

Damage resulting from improper maintenance or alterations made by the homeowner is not warrantable.

Condensation may appear on water supply lines and toilets from time to time and is normal.

Excessive condensation from airborne moisture is the result of high relative humidity. Homeowners should vent areas of high humidity with direct ventilation to the outside or by use of exhaust fans.

Plumbing fixtures are mechanical devices and, as such, require periodic maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

The quality or quantity of water from a municipal water supply, water well, or any other source may affect the condition of plumbing fixtures and is an acceptable exclusion.

Plumbing fixtures are mechanical devices and, as such, require periodic maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

The quality or quantity of water from a municipal water supply, water well, or any other source may affect the operation of plumbing fixtures and is an acceptable exclusion.

Newer low-volume toilets use less water to flush waste away than older models, but their operation is more sensitive to the amount of waste and multiple flushes may be required. Some tank designs require the homeowner to hold down the flush lever for an extended period to ensure a proper flush of waste.

The efficiency of the toilet is affected by its profile and design. Often, a poorly draining toilet is indicative of a partial blockage in the drain or plumbing vent and may not be an issue with the toilet itself.

It is the homeowner’s responsibility to mitigate damages involving water or sewage. The builder shall be contacted immediately upon identification of a blockage, followed by the municipality. The issue may involve the municipal sewage system, which is beyond the builder’s control, and is not a defect.

Sewage systems outside of municipalities require septic systems and maintenance procedures unique to those installations. Homeowners are strongly advised to completely understand the operation of their septic system, observe cautions involving the septic field, not to exceed the system’s design parameters and to provide the service regimen that such systems require.

Where heat tape is required, homeowners are responsible for inspection and maintenance of the heat tape as part of regular homeowner maintenance.

Complete failure of sanitary drainage systems is considered an emergency.

Toilets have water shut off valves. Other fixtures may have shut off valves but it is a homeowner responsibility that the main water supply line should be shut off to mitigate damages to the home in cases of emergency. Homeowners should ensure items are not flushed down toilets or sinks not intended for these products; such damage is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Failure of the system due to actions of the homeowner is not a defect.

Porcelain, enamel, acrylic, solid composite or fibreglass plumbing fixtures not meeting the acceptable performance condition shall be rectified unless noted during the walk-through inspection. Issues noted on the walk-through inspection are contractual matters that should be resolved by the builder and homeowner.

The homeowner is responsible for maintaining surface finishes in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Cracks or chips resulting from actions of the homeowner are not covered.

Manufactured marble can be damaged by impact or stress due to over tightening of drains. Care should be taken by the homeowner when cleaning or servicing to prevent cracking or chipping. Refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for use.

Crazing (fine cracking of the glaze) caused due to hot water expansion and contraction is not a defect.

When troubleshooting a localized power loss, homeowners should check the breakers, the GFI’s (ground fault interrupter) and the light bulb or appliance.

Additions, deletions or alterations by the homeowner to the original electrical system are not warrantable.

Some fixtures such as ceiling fans have wall switches and pull switches on the fixture, and all switches must be “On” to direct electricity to the fixture.

Light bulb replacement is considered homeowner maintenance and is not a defect.

When troubleshooting a localized power loss, homeowners should check the breakers, the GFI’s (ground fault interrupter) and the light bulb or appliance.

Electrical fixtures supplied by the homeowner are excluded from the warranty.

A tripped circuit breaker does not necessarily infer an issue with the home’s electrical system. Rather, the circuit breaker is performing as a failsafe device and stopping the flow of electricity until the source of the fault is corrected. Frequent tripping of circuit breakers may indicate that the circuit is overloaded.

Some appliances have special power requirements that may overload circuits, including motors that cause an electrical arc at start-up, which may cause arc-fault breakers to trip; this is not a defect.

Additions, deletions or alterations by the homeowner to the original electrical system are excluded from the warranty.

GFIs operate differently than circuit breakers. GFIs prevent electrical shocks by sensing a change or leakage in the flow of current. A drop off in current (equivalent to about 5 milliamps) will trip a relay within a few hundredths of a second resulting in power disconnection. The GFI can easily be reset once the leakage condition has been corrected.

One GFI can be wired to protect several electrical outlets within the same circuit.

The homeowner has a responsibility to test GFI circuits on a routine basis as prescribed by the GFI manufacturer.

When troubleshooting a localized power loss, homeowners should check the breakers, the GFIs and the light bulb or appliance.

Additions, deletions, or alterations by the homeowner to the original electrical system are excluded from the warranty.

Some vibration is to be expected in a mechanical, rotating device. The degree of fan vibration is often influenced by the length of the down-shaft and the quality of the fixture itself.

Ceiling fans will accumulate debris on the blades and may become unbalanced over time, and require regular cleaning and maintenance which is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Damage resulting from improper fan maintenance or alterations made by the homeowner is excluded from the warranty.

Covers dislocated by the homeowner during alterations (including painting and wallpapering) are excluded from the warranty.

Some light fixtures discolour (patina) as part of the normal operation of that fixture.

The use of incandescent light bulbs with a higher wattage than indicated on the fixture label may cause temperature discolouration and is excluded from the warranty. High wattage light bulbs exceeding the manufacturer’s recommendation are also a fire risk.

Doors and windows should be properly closed and locked to ensure positive contact with adjacent weather stripping to achieve their designed air leakage rating.

Interior air movement along and across the interior face of a window (convection) is normal and should not be confused with air leakage through the window unit.

Minor air infiltration may occur during very windy conditions and is acceptable.

Weather stripping will become worn over time and use. Weather stripping should be inspected for compression and wear and tear and replaced, if necessary, by the homeowner.

Windows shall be properly rated for their geographical location. Windows and doors shall meet the requirements for air leakage described in the National Building Code.

Air movement along and across the interior face of a wall (convection) is normal and should not be confused with air leakage through the electrical box.

Minor air infiltration may occur during very windy conditions; this is acceptable.

Ventilation fans are indirectly open to outside air. The damper is balanced to allow exhaust air to escape freely and falls back to a closed position to reduce back-drafts. By design they are not completely effective at eliminating cold air infiltration.

Exhaust fans will accumulate dust and airborne debris over time that can impair fan efficiency, obstruct the damper and create excessive noise. The homeowner is responsible for maintaining both the fan unit and the exhaust vent on the outside of the home.

During gusty wind conditions, homeowners may hear the damper fluttering as it adjusts to the fluctuating air pressure; this is normal.

During periods of cold weather water vapour may condense or freeze in exhaust venting. During warming periods this may result in moisture dripping back through the vent, and this is acceptable.

Condensation may occur in vents due to environmental conditions and interior generated humidity.

Damage caused by dampness or condensation due to failure by the homeowner to maintain adequate ventilation and humidity is not a defect.

Condensation on interior window surfaces is common during cold seasons. At temperatures below freezing, the condensate may form ice at the bottom of windows.

Homeowners can also help reduce condensation on windows by continuously running the furnace fan to encourage air circulation.

Homeowners are responsible for maintaining appropriate humidity levels. Damage caused by dampness or condensation due to failure by the homeowner to maintain adequate ventilation, air circulation, and humidity is not a defect.

When determining R value, different insulation types have varying R values per inch of thickness.

Wind washing of insulation is a condition that exists with blown-in insulation where wind movement has displaced the insulation to a point at which the thermal resistance value has become compromised.

The balancing of heat within a home is an owner action and is not covered by warranty.

Several factors affect living space temperatures and comfort:

• Directional orientation: north-facing rooms are generally cooler than south-facing rooms.

• Windows: glass has little insulating value and allows more heat to escape from the room.

• Rooms over garages: have insulated floors that lose heat to the unheated garage below.

• Airflow: free airflow from the supply outlet in a room to a return inlet or undercut door is essential. Generally, a minimum 25 mm (1”) space under interior doors above the finished floor covering should be provided.

• Personal preference: personal comfort differs between individuals. Balancing the air delivery system may not completely compensate for the effects of these factors.

Drapes and furnishings can also influence the heat balance of a room. At commencement of warranty, living areas are generally balanced. The balance can be affected by seasonal temperature variations and direct sunlight on south facing windows.

Heat registers and ductwork dampers can be adjusted to reduce large variations in room temperature. Certain variations in room temperature can be expected from directional orientation, the amount of glass within a room, airflow (if doors are closed as opposed to open) and whether or not the room is situated over an unheated area of the home such as a garage or exterior cantilever.

Generally, a temperature reading is taken four feet above floor level and as close as possible to the center of the warm air supply and cold air return in any living area after the heating system has been running for an appropriate period of time.

Variation in systems designed for multi-family units should be taken into consideration when assessing these issues.

In air and fluid flow heating systems, the flow of heat can be adjusted to minimize differences. This is commonly known as “balancing” and should be done as part of the installation and maintenance of the heating system.

Temperature variations between rooms in a home are common and can be expected as a result of the direction a room faces, the amount of windows within a room, airflow in and out of a room (if doors are closed as opposed to open) and whether or not the room is situated over an unheated area of the home such as a garage or exterior cantilever. Drapes and furnishings can also influence the heat balance of a room.

In-floor hydronic systems usually have a lag time in heating response. This lag time varies with many parameters, such as the method of construction of the system, the outdoor temperature, the room construction, how the floor is controlled and operated and the presence or absence of heat from another source.

With a forced air heating system, the efficiency of the furnace to move air can be dramatically compromised by a dirty air filter. The homeowner is responsible for maintaining the heating system and replace the air filter on a regular basis. It is recommended that circulation fans run continuously during periods of cold weather to assist heat distribution throughout the home.

Variation in systems designed for multi-family units should be taken into consideration in assessing these issues.

Damage or imbalances in heating systems caused by adjustments, additions or deletions made by the homeowner are excluded from the warranty.

On extremely cold days the furnace will be “On” more often than it is “Off”, and as it approaches its operational limits, it may be “On” continuously. Some high efficiency furnaces use a blower fan that constantly circulates the air but does not necessarily always add heat while running.

The furnace cycle is also dependent upon the sensitivity of the thermostat and the swing of temperature allowed before turning on the furnace.

Regular homeowner maintenance requires an understanding of the operation of the furnace.

Variation in systems designed for multi-family units should be taken into consideration in assessing these issues.

New high efficiency furnaces have different operating principles and generate different noises than preceding models. These noises are normal and acceptable. The owner’s manual should be referred to if routine operational sounds change.

In some systems the fan is designed to run constantly for proper air circulation throughout the home. The constant operation of the fan does not mean it is inefficient, but rather that the furnace is operating as it was designed to.

Homeowners are responsible for ensuring that intake and exhaust vents are clear of obstructions (i.e. snow, ice and debris) at all times.

Variation in systems designed for multi-family units should be taken into consideration in assessing these issues.

The efficiency of residential cooling systems can be affected by dirt or debris in the heat exchange units. Homeowners have a responsibility to clean and maintain the air conditioning system for optimal performance.

The level of air conditioning can vary in multi-level homes or in rooms with skylights or large windows. The load on an air conditioner can be reduced by closing windows that face south.

Variation in systems designed for multi-family units should be taken into consideration in assessing these issues.

Damage or imbalances to the cooling system caused by alterations, additions or deletions made by the homeowner are excluded from the warranty.

Noise consistent with the normal operation of the furnace, blower and related components is not a defect. Unusual noises or a change in noise may be indicative of a maintenance requirement.

Weight transfer on floors over metal ductwork can sometimes result in a temporary deflection of the metal ductwork, generating a noise when it snaps back to its original position.

Duct work that has been dislodged due to homeowner alterations, additions or deletions are excluded from warranty.

Condensate lines should be inspected and cleaned as part of regular home maintenance. In refrigeration-type units the condensate line is usually blocked by ice rather than debris. Air conditioning and refrigeration units can “ice-up” if the power was shut down in the midst of a thaw cycle. The prevalence of ice in this situation is not related to blockage in the condensate line. Homeowners should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations whenever such appliances are turned off or moved. Damage resulting from improper maintenance is not covered.

Damage resulting from improper maintenance or from additions, deletions or alterations made by the homeowner is not a defect.

Typically, floor mounted heat registers are slip-fitted into position; this is acceptable.

When two surfaces are simply abutted, the result is typically a minor gap; this is normal and acceptable.

Minor temperature variations in the floor of an electric in-floor warming system, designed to create warm floor surfaces, can be expected. Heat is delivered to electric in-floor warming systems through lines of wire. There is a specified distance between these lines, and the areas of the floor between these lines will naturally be cooler than the areas of the floor immediately above the lines. These lines may be arranged in groups or “zones”. If a zone is not providing heat, a definable area of the floor will feel cool. Areas of extreme heat loss such as a patio door or large window, can affect the surface temperature of the floor surface near them. Electric in-floor heat is not always designed to be installed in (or to heat) the entire floor area. For example: behind and beside toilets and in closets.

Electric in-floor warming systems are not designed to serve as the primary heating system for a home.

Damage or imbalances to the electric floor warming system caused by adjustments, additions or deletions made by the homeowner are excluded from the warranty.

Minor temperature variations in the floor of a hydronic in-floor warming system, designed to create warm floor surfaces, can be expected. Heat is typically delivered to in-floor hydronic heating systems through fluid filled lines. There is a specified distance between these heat lines, and the areas of the floor between these heat lines will naturally be cooler than the areas of the floor immediately above the heat lines.

These lines are also arranged in groups or “zones”. Fluid circulating through these zones gradually loses heat from the point it enters the loop to the point it leaves the loop. This can account for some small variations across the floor surface. If a loop or zone is not providing heat, a definable area of the floor will feel cool.

Hydronic in-floor systems transfer heat from a fluid to the surrounding floor systems which in turn radiate the heat to the room. Temperature variations across the floor may be more noticeable if the system has not had a chance to equalize with the floor in which it is contained. Areas of extreme heat loss such as a patio door or large window, can affect the surface temperature of the floor surface near them. In addition, hydronic in-floor heat is not always designed to be installed in (or heat) the entire floor area. For example: behind and beside toilets and in closets or utility rooms.

Damage or imbalances to hydronic floor warming systems caused by adjustments, additions or deletions made by the homeowner are excluded from the warranty.

Occasional condensation in itself is not considered abnormal. Typical temporary conditions that may contribute to condensation are:

• Cool air may enter an unheated crawl space and cool the interior surfaces of the space. When outdoor temperatures rise, moisture laden warm air may be carried into the crawl space and condense on the cool surfaces.

• At night in heated crawl spaces, outside air may rapidly cool foundation walls and cool the interior surface on which moisture can condense.

• If the house is left unheated, the floors and walls may provide cold surfaces on which moisture in the warmer crawl space may condense.

Stored materials may obstruct ventilation airflow.

Ventilation requires careful management by the homeowner to maintain acceptable moisture levels.

Damage caused by dampness or condensation due to failure by the homeowner to maintain adequate ventilation or humidity levels as may be set out in maintenance documentation provided to the owner is excluded.

Radon is naturally occurring radioactive gas found in soil, rock or water. Radon can move from the soil or water into a home and can accumulate in poorly ventilated, enclosed spaces such as basements and crawl spaces.

Radon levels in a home cannot be determined prior to occupancy and cannot be predicted.

The 2014 Alberta Building Code specifies construction requirements intended to minimize the radon levels in a home; however, these measures are not intended to absolutely prevent the entry of radon into a home.

For more information please see the Government of Canada Radon Guideline on the Health Canada website.