Need Help with Your Sinkhole Insurance Claim?

Nothing can be more devastating than finding out a giant sinkhole in your front yard one fine morning. If you are living in Florida, it may be a common scenario for most of you. Due to this giant sinkhole, your property may go under substantial damage. For which you may require immediate financial assistance. You may have insured your property, but does your insurance cover sinkhole damage? If it does, how can you claim it effectively? These questions can easily overwhelm you. Worry not; we will try to clear your confusion in the following article.

Sinkhole Signs

As mentioned above, sinkholes are pretty common in Florida. They can either occur due to natural topography or for human activities. The topography of Florida consists of a thin layer of sand and clay covering limestone. Due to rain and circulating groundwater, the ground gets loose and forms cavities and crevices. Although sinkholes are very unpredictable, they may possess some signs in some cases. The signs being,

• The splintering of the ground

• Drying or dying of vegetation

• Excessive standing of the water

• Failing to close doors and windows properly

• Exposure of previously hidden tree roots

• Leaning of different structures fixated to the ground

• Cracking of any structure

• Unexplained loud noise

• Suspicious water stains

Reporting of Sinkhole Activity

Although no state agency is responsible for sinkhole inspections, many homeowners tend to call Florida Geological Survey to verify sinkhole activity. The FGS maintains a database, however, it doesn’t assist the homeowners to file a claim or get paid. Therefore, the home is already marked as a “sinkhole home,” and still no luck in claiming the insurance from the company.

Sinkhole Insurance Claims

Florida is one of the most vulnerable states when it comes to sinkholes. The fl sinkhole map can be a difficult decision to purchase your home in.

Similar to California with earthquakes, sinkholes are more likely to appear in states like Florida and Alabama, where there is a high water table, than anywhere else in the country.

Sinkholes can lead to ground collapse, which can cause catastrophic damage to your property. This is why Florida sinkhole claims are a rather common insurance policy that many Floridians opt for.

While your Florida insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the property damage caused by the sinkhole, our Licensed Public Adjusters keep YOUR interests in mind and uncover the full scope of the damage to your home or business. Their thorough inspection will uncover any additional damage that may not be outwardly apparent.

They will then negotiate directly with your insurance company until you get the settlement you deserve.

Filing a Sinkhole Claim

Give a call to your insurance company at the first sign of sinkhole generation. The company will send an adjuster to record and file their inspection of the area. It is a common practice to send a geologist or geotechnical engineer by the insurance company after the adjuster assessment. They provide their professional opinion if there’s a sinkhole present or not. After that, the company may request repair estimates and send the client a letter confirming or denying the claim.

Why is Sinkhole Damage Claims Denied?

When a sinkhole damage claim has been denied, there are three important questions that should be asked. They are,

• What type of testing was conducted?

• Has there been any drilling done before denying the claim?

• Has every information regarding the claim been investigated thoroughly?

There are some companies that may try to Ignore the standard procedure required under the law of Florida. Consulting a geotechnical engineer may be costly, and the insurance company may not be keen on spending money. Therefore, they may have performed a “drive-by” test and reported everything normal. If it’s the case with your insurance company, you can take drastic measures like going to court for your claim.

Sinkhole Insurance Law in Florida

Before 2007, the residents in Florida were required to purchase sinkhole insurance for structural damage and non-catastrophic events. However, despite the lobbying of the companies, a new law has been established which forced the insurance companies to include the cost of sinkhole coverage. Nowadays, the Floridians are only forced to buy catastrophic ground collapse insurance, which covers:

• The sudden crumbling of the ground

• Falling of ground cover visible to the eye

• Damaging of the foundation or the building

• Any incident that forces the residents to evacuate the insured property

However, there are still conflicts about the Florida sinkhole law that enables the insurance company to pay less or deny paying.  

Recent Approaches to Deny Sinkhole Damage Claims

In the past, the insurance companies used to deny sinkhole damage claims by denying any sinkhole activities. They may blame the earth’s movement or material shrinkage for the damage. However, now with the advancement of technology, one can easily determine if there is a sinkhole. So, the companies are now highly focused on the structural damage wordings. They may refer to any damage caused by sinkholes as “cosmetic” to deny the claim. The insurance company may either report this by a simple visual inspection or conducting comprehensive tests. Either way, after they declare that the damage is “cosmetic” rather than structural, they deny the claim to pay the homeowners. This possesses several problems like now your insurance company won’t pay for repairing the damage, and the house is already marked as a sinkhole house. Even if the homeowner wants to sell the house, he has to substantially pay for the repairing from his pocket.

Why Hire an Adjuster for your Sinkhole Claim?

The insurance company already has their own team of experts to assess and manage the sinkhole claims. Additionally, you may not be aware of all the nooks and croons of the insurance laws. However, an adjuster has the license to practice insurance law and is well aware of it. So. When you are facing a panel of experts, it’s always clever to form a team of your own to fight better. Here, at Ask an Adjuster, we have helped a lot of homeowners and built a reputation. When our adjusters are handling your claim, you are assured of having the best benefits with minimal hassle. 

Ask an Adjuster Claims Adjusting Works for YOU!

Ask An Adjuster Licensed Public Adjusters work for you, NOT your insurance company. Call Ask An Adjuster Claims Adjusting BEFORE you call your insurance company. We will represent you during the entire insurance claim process. Our sinkhole insurance adjusters in Florida will do a thorough inspection, find any and all damages, and report those damages to your insurance company. They will then communicate directly with your insurance company on your behalf.

Even if you have already filed a claim, we can still help you. We may be able to find additional damage that your insurance adjuster overlooked. Call us for a FREE, no-obligation inspection.

Guest Contributor: Arnold Bloom

Bathroom Renovation Ideas for 2021

Bathroom renovations come in all shapes and sizes, from a full remodel to some small upgrades. Furthermore, there is no need for you to break the bank if you want to spruce up the bathroom a little bit. If you’ve decided that 2021 is the year for you to finally update your bathroom, keep on reading for some ideas.

Install new tiles

In case you have a few cracked tiles in your bathroom, you should be thinking about replacing them. Not only are cracks unsightly but they can also create structural problems if water seeps into them and penetrates the subfloor. Moreover, you can also opt for this project if you simply don’t like the current color scheme of the bathroom. When picking the new tiles, there are several things to keep in mind. First, you need to find the right shade. Then, consider the size of the tiles. Finally, decide on the pattern you will use. There are many options available, from black and white chevron tiles on the floor to navy blue wall tiles in a diamond pattern.

Replace your shower with a bathtub

Maybe you want to tackle a bigger project. In that scenario, consider replacing your shower with a tub or vice versa. For example, if you have the space for a bathtub and you’d like to have a relaxing bubble bath every once in a while, this is a great move. You can choose from a wide array of bathtubs that are available on the market, whether you want a freestanding clawfoot one or an alcove one. On the other hand, if your bathroom feels cramped and you don’t really use the tub that often, opting for a walk-in shower will provide your family with all the extra space you might need for storage. Lastly, you also have the option of combining the two approaches. For example, adding a glass panel next to your tub is probably the most affordable alternative here.

Opt for floating elements

Something else you can think about if you have a small bathroom is getting floating elements. By mounting them on the wall, you will be freeing up some floor space which can help create the illusion of a bigger bathroom. For instance, you can get a new floating vanity or a floating toilet. Fortunately, these elements are available in a variety of styles so whether you want a high gloss white vanity or one that has a more natural look, you will be able to complete your bathroom with no issues.

Swap out the faucets

Swapping out the faucets is a small and more affordable project that can make a big difference. If you’re handy, this is something that you can do in a few hours. If your showerhead currently feels subpar, get a new model. Perhaps a rainfall showerhead is exactly what you need. Then, you can swap out the faucet in the bathroom for a low-flow model or even look into sensor-activated ones that will ensure you are not wasting any water. With so many bathroom brands on the market, you have amazing options at your disposal. In terms of color, everything from matte black and brushed gold to chrome and brass is available.

Get new hardware pieces

Besides new faucets and showerheads, you can also replace all the other hardware pieces in the bathroom. While there might not be too many of them, having them match your color scheme can really tie everything together. So, towel racks, toilet paper holders, vanity handles, soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and similar items should also be swapped with updated versions.

Improve the lighting

While on the topic of hardware, you should not overlook the lighting situation in your bathroom. Is there enough light to put on your makeup or shave in the morning? Can the lights be dimmed when you want a relaxing bath? Keep all of these things in mind when thinking about the lighting fixtures. For starters, you want bright task lights around the mirrors. Then, you can install a dimmer switch that will allow you to control the brightness of your overhead lighting fixtures. Moreover, if you want to make a statement, you should invest in a focal fixture like a chandelier or a pendant that will make the space more elegant.

Add radiant floor heating

If you’re working with a bigger budget, you can even consider installing a radiant floor heating system. No matter if you choose an electric or water-based system, you will ensure there are no cold spots in your bathroom, which will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Plus, this means that you will save on space as no radiators will be taking up the walls. Of course, this is best done while you’re also replacing the floor tiles.

Invest in smart technology

Smart home technology is taking over the world. If you’ve already invested in some smart home elements like security and entertainment, you can also make your bathroom more connected to the whole home. For example, a smart toilet is more hygienic than the average toilet as it has many automated and hands-free features. Additionally, the seat can be pre-warmed. Moreover, you can also control the lights with an app, play relaxing music by simply saying a voice command, or start a bath by telling a virtual assistant to do so.

Regardless of the budget you are working with, there is a variety of ways how you can revamp your bathroom in 2021. The options abound from replacing hardware items and installing new lighting fixtures to changing tiles and adding a bathtub, so put your thinking cap on, make a plan and start renovating.

Guest Contributor: Theodora Evans

How to Solve the Most Common Garage Issues and Malfunctions

Have you been experiencing some problems with your garage? You probably spend time there every day, whether parking your car, working on projects or even having a party. When something goes wrong with a highly used area of your home, it can be an inconvenience. 

Here’s how to solve the most common garage issues and malfunctions so you can get yours back to working order.

Issue 1: Clutter

Most homeowners would agree that a cluttered garage is common. Garages are a space for extra storage, but when they’re overstuffed, you’re probably not making the most of it. 

When you use a garage to the best of its abilities, you’ll have a lot more room to spare. Here’s how to bust the clutter:

• Add cabinets: Cabinets or other upright storage shelves are great in garages. They can hide your tools and other items while keeping everything neat and tidy.

• Store items on the wall: A few hooks will allow you to store items by hanging them on the wall. Rakes, shovels and other tools can easily lay flat and add more space.

• Install overhead racks: Overhead racks are ideal for items you don’t use as often. They’re out of sight and out of mind until you need them.

Go through all the items in your garage, throw out or recycle what you don’t use, and use label boxes and storage containers. Then use these storage tips to keep the mess at bay.

Issue 2: Poor Insulation

Poor insulation defeats the purpose of having a garage, which is to store things to keep them out of harsh weather conditions. 

Insulate your garage walls first. If there’s an attic above it, insulate that as well. Any insulation will work fine here. An insulated garage will save energy, and you’ll be able to keep items safe from the weather. 

Issue 3: Faulty Garage Door

Garage doors serve as the largest entryway to your home, so you want to be sure it’s operating correctly and safely. Here are a few signs it’s time to inspect your garage door: 

• It suddenly slams shut.

• There are straining sounds coming from the springs.

• It feels heavier when you try to open it.

• You feel a draft coming in from the bottom of the door.

Replacing the torsion springs will fix most of these issues. For the last sign, you should apply new weatherstripping. 

Issue 4: Damaged Floor

Do you notice cracks all along your garage floor? If so, you might consider finishing it. Cars drive over it, and there is heavy foot traffic in some areas. Sometimes, the floors crumble, chip and have an unpleasant look. 

If all you have here is a cement layer, you might want to consider a garage floor finish. You can add a layer of epoxy or even heavy-duty floor mats. If you use your garage for entertainment, you can add carpet or an indoor flooring option. 

Issue 5: Inadequate Lighting

If you work in your garage, poor lighting can be more than just an inconvenience: It can pose a safety hazard. Garages are full of tools and other dangerous equipment, so it’s necessary to see where you’re going. 

The solution is simple — add more light or replace the ones you have. Fluorescent lights and LEDs work great in garages because they provide ample light, save energy and last a long time. If you would rather have natural light, add more windows. 

Issue 6: Nonfunctioning Garage Door Opener

When leaving your garage or coming home to it, you want to be able to open the garage door with the touch of a button. In colder weather or rain, the last thing you want to do is get out of your car to open the garage door manually. 

If your opener isn’t working, the first thing you should do is replace the batteries. If that doesn’t fix it, check your entry for any obstructions. Examine the track alignment or the torsion springs to correct the problem.

Make Your Garage Fully Functional 

These solutions to the most common garage issues should have you back up and running in no time and provide you with a fully functional space.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

How To Do A Spring Closet Clean-out

Spring cleaning is something that many people talk about, but few actually take the time to do. Some may refer to it when talking about the garage or basement, but one area that most people overlook is the closet. If it doesn’t get cleaned seasonally, clothes and accessories may turn into an unorganized mess. Some items might not fit anymore or may have gone out of style; some shoes might be worn out, or accessories get tangled and damaged. As the weather gets warmer, it may be time to spring clean that closet.

During those hectic mornings or exhausted late nights, it can be a drag to put things where they belong. This may leave you with last winter’s forgotten coats or only the left shoe of a pair in the wrong place. Straightening the closet after seasons of disregard could take a full day or more. However, with a bit of patience and determination, you can feel accomplished about your organized closet.

In your spring closet clean-out , know that Maid in Hoboken is a house cleaning and disinfecting services provider that will help you and give you that great satisfaction for an organized closet.

Guide to Spring Cleaning

It’s one thing to deep clean the kitchen and freshen up the bathroom on a daily or weekly basis; it’s quite another to tackle four season’s worth of outfits that are hanging in your closet. Deciding what to keep, what to toss and what to donate can be a daunting process, especially if memories and happy feelings are tied to the certain pieces. It may take some time but having a spring-cleaning session at least once a year could help keep the clutter and cobwebs away. Here are some tips to ease the process:

1. Get prepared. Don’t think that you can clean the whole closet in two hours — unless you’re tackling section by section. If the goal is to clean the entire closet, set aside a weekend to finish the job. Have bags ready for donation, containers for extra organization and a workout outfit ready so you can break a sweat.

2. Start purging. Take inventory of each item you own and ask the important questions. Has it been worn in the past six months to a year? Does it still fit? Is it stained or tattered? Don’t feel obligated to keep an item because of sentimental value or a “just-in-case” event. If it doesn’t serve a purpose, get rid of it.

3. Clean the traditional way. Once you’ve decided on the clothes that will stay, pull everything off the shelves. Dust the surfaces, empty old boxes, vacuum the floor and wipe down any shelves that may have a layer of dust. This can also help you find any forgotten items that might have gotten stuck in the corners and crevices.

4. Use the hang and fold methods. Hang pieces that wrinkle easily, such as blouses, dress shirts, dresses, slacks, gowns and jackets. Fold other pieces that can be stored in bulk, such as jeans, t-shirts, sweatpants, undergarments and socks. If an item isn’t going to be worn anytime soon because of the weather, put it in storage.

5. Add storage systems. Depending on the size of the closet, bins and boxes can provide designated spaces for items that may not fit in a drawer or on clothing rod. Hanging space is sometimes precious in small closets, so hooks, cubbies and shelves could be a smart and savvy addition to the area.

6. Maintain your organizational system. It’s counterproductive to create the closet of your dreams only for it to get messy a few weeks later. Get rid of items along the way to prevent the accumulation of unused or forgotten pieces. Replace or repair broken heels, torn sleeves and loose threads so the clutter doesn’t accumulate.

As tempting as it may be to engage in retail therapy, too much shopping can be detrimental on your newly purged closet. Keep track of the items you need — such as new denim or a solid pair of shoes — to prevent the spring cleaning from being a bust. It’s normal for a closet to become a bit disordered and disheveled over time, but don’t underestimate the endorphins that can come from a clean space, giving you more room for new items that make you happy.

AUTHOR BIO: Tom Happ is President of Closet Works — based in Elmhurst, Illinois — which for 32 years has served Chicagoland with customized closet and storage solutions. With more than 100 employees, each solution is designed, fabricated and Installed to optimize the storage for every room within the home.

How To Avoid Stinky Plumbing Problems

A time will come when you will have plumbing problems that could make your entire commercial building dysfunctional. You should never delay any quality plumbing maintenance because the issue will become even worse. You can expect the usual issues to happen with your plumbing system, such as overflowing toilet water, leaking faucets, and burst water pipes. 

While the mentioned plumbing problems are usually not a problem for others, others may cause the entire building to stink. Any building would rather have faucet water overflowing out of the sink rather than toilet waste flowing back up and making the entire bathroom stink. If you want to prevent any stinky plumbing problems, you can find several tips and tricks that some commercial buildings use. 

Tip #1: Fix Your Sewer Line’s Breach Problems

You should know that any sewer line can get damaged by many elements. One way to damage a sewer line is when clogs start building up until the pressure causes the line to burst. Another is when tree roots could grow through the line, causing extensive damage to the pipe’s surface. Lastly, the sewer line could potentially sink further because of soil issues. 

And when the sewer line breaks, the waste inside will flow out and make your building stink. It is one of the most disgusting plumbing problems you would not want happening to your building, so you should try to prevent it as early as possible. Remember that preventing a problem is the best solution rather than fixing it when it happens. 

An excellent way to prevent it is by having every toilet and drain inspected by a professional plumber. Usually, they inspect the toilet to see if it’s flushing the water smoothly. And when they notice that the water isn’t going down faster than usual, that’s usually an indication of a sewer line clog. And when they inspect drains, they would try to listen if there’s a gurgling sound because it’s also another indication of a clog. 

Tip #2: Clean Out Your Garbage Disposal Frequently

If your office kitchen has a garbage disposal, ensure that you have it cleaned from time to time. The garbage disposal’s purpose is to grind large food residue that you dump into the sink, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to clean it. Food stuck on the garbage disposal grinder for a long time will cause a foul smell, which will linger around the room. 

The stench will be overbearing for many, so you need to get it cleaned at least after a week of constant use. In most cases, your building’s cleaning personnel can clean it without a problem since they know how a garbage disposal works and how to take care of them. And once they finish cleaning it, you can advise them to place citrus peels in the garbage disposal to eliminate the overwhelming stench even further. 

Tip #3: Fix and Maintain Your P-Traps

You can find p-traps underneath showers, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures. The purpose of p-traps is to hold ample water to prevent sewer odor and gas from coming out of your drain. The problem usually happens when you use toilets or showers too often, and then the p-traps dry out. Insufficient water inside the p-traps could cause the putrid stench from the sewer lines to climb up and out of the drains. You can fix the problem by cycling water through the rarely used fixtures regularly. 

Ensure you follow the mentioned tips above if you want to avoid the stench from invading your building. If you want to make your plumber’s job more accessible, it would be best to install a plumbing access door where they can work on the pipes without a problem.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Differences Between Commercial and Residential Plumbing

Residential and commercial buildings can never run properly without the crucial systems, especially the plumbing system. It ensures that both clean and dirty waste inside the building gets appropriately regulated. Without it, you will have difficulty getting clean water and dumping wastewater out of the building. 

But have you wondered the difference between a residential and commercial building's plumbing system? You might find similarities between the two, but you need to learn what sets them apart, especially if you own a house or a commercial building. In most cases, people don't even know the difference between the two plumbing systems that they would try to let somebody else figure it out. 

1. A commercial plumbing system is more complex

You can find many large commercial buildings with several floors and vast that at least six average-sized houses can fit on the land. Because of the commercial building's extensiveness, it's only right that they have the most extensive plumbing system. You will find several toilets, faucets, and sinks strategically placed in different parts of a commercial building. It would also mean that commercial building owners need to have several plumbers working because having one is not enough to complete the plumbing repairs and maintenance within the day. 

But with residential buildings, their plumbing systems are usually not that complex, which means even one or two plumbers can finish it without a problem. The only time the residential building's plumbing system is challenging to work on is larger than an average house. So, if you only have a home that needs plumbing maintenance, hiring a single plumber is enough to get it done. 

2. Plumbing Damage

Because of the commercial building's extensive plumbing system, the damage is more likely to occur than in a residential building. Usually, plumbing problems that happen in residential buildings get taken care of right away. Homeowners would contact a plumber to fix a burst pipe, and they can get it done at a moment's notice. 

But if a burst pipe happens in a commercial building's plumbing system, the damage could cause more problems other than plumbing damage. It could also reach other systems such as electrical wires and gas pipes, which should never happen. What makes the scenario even worse is that the overflowing water could make its way down to the lower levels and disrupt everyone's activities. If ever that happens to your commercial building, provide your plumbers' convenient access to the plumbing system by installing plumbing access panels. 

3. Plumbing System Cleanliness

When it comes to keeping your home's plumbing system clean, you would usually ignore it until an issue happens. That would be the only time when you would ask your plumber to clean the plumbing system, but that isn't the case with commercial buildings. They need to clean their plumbing systems at all times to comply with specific health rules and regulations. 

Failing to clean a commercial building's plumbing system could result in hefty penalties, which could potentially cause the building to close down. Examples of commercial buildings that need clean plumbing systems are restaurants and other businesses that are part of the food industry.

4. Plumbing System Efficiency

Your average home will usually have one or two bathrooms, which is already enough for four family members to use all the time. If one of the bathrooms has problems, everyone can still use the other bathroom. But if that happens to a commercial building, it may become a massive problem for everyone because they would have to look for another inside the building. 

Usually, plumbers would need to close the entire restroom, especially when they need to make extensive repairs. It is one reason that most commercial buildings will have their plumber because no one will ever know when a plumbing issue could happen. They are also crucial to have around the building to fix plumbing problems as quickly as possible.

Don't forget to make the job easy for your plumbers if you want those annoying plumbing problems resolved right away. A good way you can achieve that is by letting your contractors install louvered access doors and panels!

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

How to Avoid Getting Trapped in a House Remodel Limbo

Renovating an old house can be an excellent way to getting your dream home or it can end in tears. Unlike building a house from scratch, renovating a property can be complex because you don't fully understand how the house was initially constructed.

Making mistakes during renovations can be expensive and it can lead to stressful disputes. The good news is that you can avoid making remodeling mistakes. Below are tips and strategies that can help you as a homeowner to avoid making house remodel mistakes.

Pay attention to communication links

Communication is vital in any working relationship. It can affect the project completion date because of the different parties involved including the regulators, homeowners, designers, consultants, and employees. If one party fails to communicate when they are required to, a breakdown may arise.

Maintain open communication with the key contact person. Even if you were actively involved in choosing a plumbing service provider, the right person to communicate with directly should be the contact person as stipulated by your contractor, and not necessarily the plumber. Similarly, if you want to have a specific type of shower head, you should communicate with the contact person. 

A civil engineering and architecture essay writer says that for the smooth flow of the project, the manager should coordinate and collaborate with the service providers based on the laid down channels. Construction is like a production process. If a change is made, all the parties to the project must be informed. Otherwise, the project may start falling apart. Effective communication can lead to better project collaboration, improve feedback and minimize misunderstandings and delays.

Follow rules and regulations

Following the legal requirements includes getting the planning permission before renovating your house. Planning permission is an important element of any renovation or home improvement endeavor.

According to the best essay writers in construction subject, even if applying for planning permission can be stressful and time-consuming, never be tempted to skip the process. You need to understand what the process entails and have an idea of what is likely to be approved by the local planning department.

Property remodel also requires the building regulations approval. Building regulations are aimed at ensuring that the buildings are safe and stable for occupation. Construction work must be done according to the building regulations.

Following the rules and regulations related to the property, remodeling can help to ensure the safety of the property. You can avoid unnecessary spending that may be triggered by future damages. Review the information on the relevant websites to ensure that you have all the documents and plans needed. Submit your application early to avoid delays.

Select products promptly

After identifying a contractor, things should start moving relatively fast. After your contractor has assessed the house to be remodeled, you should be responsible for selecting the products to be installed.

One construction decision can influence other decisions. To avoid delays, you should have an idea of the sequence of construction activities. For instance, kitchen countertops cannot be fitted before selecting the sinks. Likewise, electrical installation cannot be done before lighting selection. You should order products immediately after your contractor gives you the green light. If you are not sure of the products to be fixed, ask your contractor for help. 

Don’t micromanage the project

Hiring a contractor to remodel your house indicates that you trust their profession and the fact that they can deliver quality services. The construction process is complex, especially for someone who is not trained. A contractor understands why an electric wire could be hanging loosely or why there is a particular opening on a roof.

Trusting your contractor is key to the successful completion of the project. The project will be said to be complete when the contractor says so. If you notice something unusual, take note of it and if it is still a concern at the end of the project, you can discuss it with the contractor. A good contractor should take you through the project after completion so that you can get a chance to raise any concerns.

Micromanaging the project can annoy the contractor and damage their trust. Micromanagement is not scalable and it can make employees depend on it or cause managers to lose sight of the overall picture.

Have the property inspected before renovation

If the renovation is going to involve flooring or the removal of walls, unwelcome surprises may be uncovered. The unexpected problems may include:

• Termites and other pests

• Major water damage

• Missing radiators

• Asbestos

To reduce the impact of such problems, get an experienced contractor to inspect the house before renovation. The contractor can recommend testing, anticipate possible issues and advise you on necessary measures to take to avoid costly endeavors during and after renovation. 

When the renovation is going on, the contractor will address unexpected issues immediately and avoid project delays. Plan for a contingency budget to cater to unforeseen issues and plan accordingly. 

Schedule the project

When many people are involved in a project, coherence is essential. Materials, contractors, and other service providers must be integrated. If one activity is delayed, the entire project is slowed down. For instance, if the bricklayer does not receive the bricks on time, they might take up another job and it may be quite difficult to have them back.

A project schedule can be useful, especially if the project is involving and has many participants. The materials, contractors, and services must be ready when needed to ensure that the remodeling schedule is on track. 

Choose a contractor who is organized and can produce some examples of project schedules for previous successful projects. Qualified contractors can use Gantt charts for project planning and scheduling. They will ensure that project materials are available when needed and the right people show up when needed.

Conclusion

Home remodel should be taken as seriously as constructing a home from scratch. A house remodeling project can boost your home’s market value and aesthetics. A project is said to be successful if it is completed on time and within the set budget. By following the above tips and strategies, you can avoid unnecessary costs and remodeling delays and allow you to enjoy the home’s new look and design. 

Author Bio:

Leon Collier is a blogger and academic writer from the UK who has vast experience working with dissertation help services, best essay writing services and essay writing service review sites. He loves to take on every challenge thrown at him and has the ability to deliver outstanding work regularly. When he’s not busy writing, he loves reading books and playing tabletop games. Follow him on Twitter @LeonCollier12.

Photo by Brigitte Tohm on Unsplash 

Top 4 Mistakes to Avoid When Building Your Own Home

After a year of being stuck in tiny apartments and houses, many people are starting to consider building their own homes. Real estate professionals have already predicted that new construction, single-family homes could exceed 1 million in 2021. So, if you’re on the fence about building a home from scratch, you might want to decide soon.

Still, it’s wise to take your time and know exactly what you want before laying claim to a tract of land. Otherwise, you could make one of the following mistakes and end up spending more time and money than you’d planned.

1. Choosing a Bad Site

One of the biggest mistakes homebuyers make when building their own house is choosing the wrong site. In a rush to start constructing their dream home, they overlook details like light, noise, traffic, and even public water connections. When they discover their dream home site is anything but, it’ll be too late.

Visit a few sites and narrow down your options by visiting them at different times of the day and night. Walk around the property, snap a few pictures, and take some notes. Then, when you think you’ve found the perfect spot, take another day or two to make sure.

2. Picking the Wrong Materials

Many people looking to build a home also make the mistake of choosing the wrong materials. Contractors usually know where to get quality materials for the best price. However, some materials can still cost a pretty penny, tempting builders to choose cheap, low-quality materials.

While they may be able to get away with cutting corners on some supplies, they’ll have no choice but to choose higher-quality materials for high-traffic areas. Otherwise, they may end up paying out the nose to repair or redo a portion of their home later on down the road.

3. Planting Trees

Nature-loving homebuilders won’t hesitate to plant large tree and shrub varieties around their new home. However, if the vegetation is too close, it can break pipes, ruin sidewalks, and erode the foundation.

Whether you have a strong traditional foundation or an alternative type of foundation, tree roots can rob the soil around it of water, which can put extra stress on your home. Therefore, it’s best to plant larger trees farther from the site or simply stick with smaller plants that won’t erode the earth around your foundation.

4. Poor Communication

Contractors and construction teams are notoriously bad at communicating with clients — and vice versa. However, your architect, designer, and builder won’t know what to do unless you tell them, so it’s crucial to establish an open line of communication from the very beginning.

Choose a main method of communication — like texting or emailing — and use it to connect with everyone on your team throughout the entire project. Share your vision and don’t skimp on the details. After all, this is your future home, so it’s your responsibility to tell the builder what you want.

Be Confident and Live Your Dream

While you’re building your home, your friends and family will undoubtedly give you their opinion on everything from countertop materials to layout — whether or not you want to hear it. However, it’s in these moments that you must be confident and remind yourself that this is your home.

You are more than capable of making your own decisions and making your dream a reality. As long as you avoid making the mistakes above, you’ll end up with a beautiful, unique home that’s perfect for you and your family.

Great way to avoid mistakes is to find professional home builders like Country Living Homes and expect satisfaction in their work.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

Why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist

Spring isn't just around the corner; it's already here! Most people avoid doing large-scale housework or cleaning during the winter months. It makes sense to ride out the winter and start doing major household chores once the weather gets warmer. Besides the warm weather, there is also more daylight when spring finally rolls around, making cleaning much easier. Before you start crossing chores off your list, we need to discuss why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist.

But the drains are fine

It's great that you haven't had any problems so far. However, you shouldn't wait for something to go wrong to check your drains. Think of drain cleaning as preventative maintenance for your plumbing. Clogged drains are something that most homeowners have to deal with. We recommend hiring professionals to do annual inspections.

Remember to check your outdoor drains for buildup as well.

Checking the drains regularly on your home will help:

• Clear buildup: Buildup can happen in both outdoor and indoor drains. If you haven't done regular cleaning, there could be years of buildup in your drains. Outdoor drains are susceptible to foliage and twig buildups. Kitchen and bathroom drains can house a year's worth of grease and hair follicles. That's just an accident waiting to happen, one that you can easily avoid with regular maintenance.

• Detect problems: Regular inspections will let you know about any potential issues before they escalate. Know about any cracks in the pipes and replace them in time.

• Prevent future emergencies: Clogged toilets can cause substantial damage to your home. Unpleasant odors and spillage can be hard to remove. So, drain cleaning ends up much cheaper than remodeling.

• Extend the life of your plumbing: Anything will last longer if you maintain it properly. The same goes for the drains and plumbing system of your home. Don't wait for the plumbing in your home to break down. If any pipe or fixture does need replacing, it will be cheaper than doing a complete remodel.

Why spring cleaning

Due to heavy rainfall and snow in some cities, winter can leave the drains in your home in bad shape. If the winter was particularly cold, your pipes could have cracks that hadn't been there the year before. Spring is the perfect time to perform a checkup and do some drain cleaning. Also, most people find that they are in a better mood when spring comes around. With a good mood comes more energy for work around the house too, which is why people decide to commit to detailed spring cleaning. And we have some additional ideas for this project since you are already invested in doing the job right. 

Cold winters can lead to a lot of rainfall in the spring.

Unfortunately, spring comes with some issues as well. Melting snow leads to rain, and there tends to be a lot of rainfall during spring in many places. If your home has experienced plumbing issues, cracks, or leaks, you will likely face those problems again. This means it's imperative to do a checkup before any spring flooding occurs. As you can see, there are many reasons why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist. 

Moving to a new home

If you are moving to a new home, you will be facing many uncertainties. For help with the move itself, browsing through Verified Movers will allow you to connect with professional companies they work with. And then, as if relocating wasn't stressful enough, you also need to think about the condition of the drains and pipes. Even doing a home inspection before you buy will only reveal so much.

Hire an additional professional to look at the plumbing and drains. Doing an extensive plumbing checkup before moving into a new home is a good idea. You will learn a lot about the current state of your home. You can use potential problems that the checkup uncovered as a negotiation tool to lower the purchasing price. Knowing any issues in advance will make your home easier to maintain. Also, you can do any needed repairs before you move in. And it will end up saving you a lot of time and money. Besides, no one wants to live on a construction site.

Keeping your drains in good shape

Sure, spring cleaning is great; with the new season, you also get to breathe new life into your home. If you have the energy, here are some other spring cleaning tasks that you can add to your checklist. Getting professionals to do a thorough checkup is better than improvising a DIY solution. While professional drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist, there are some things that you can do yourself to keep the drains in good shape.

Keep your kitchen drains clean and free from grease buildup.

Tips to keep your drains in good shape:

• Install drain stoppers. Make sure that all of the drains in your home have drain stoppers. This is also relevant for outdoor drains in your garden or yard.

• Clean the drain covers. The drain covers and stoppers are there to hold back larger debris. Once they have done their job, it's up to you to clean them. We recommend cleaning the drain covers weekly.

• Remove hair from shower drains. Lift the stopper and try to remove all of the hair and soap residues. You can use a wire or dedicate a pair of tweezers for the task.

• Avoid flushing large items. Makeup removal pads, wet wipes, cotton balls, and large paper towels have no business being flushed down the drain. Place these in the trash. You can have a small bin in the toilet you use only for these items.

• Use drain cleaning agents. Many options on the market won't corrode the pipes and are biodegradable.

• Don’t put just anything down the kitchen drain. If your kitchen drain is connected to garbage disposal, you will need to clean that as well. Grind a mix of ice and salt and follow it with lemon juice to get a fresh smell. Avoid putting cooking oil, grease, or fruit peels in your garbage disposal, since that can clog your kitchen drain easily.

You have seen why drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist. With regular cleaning, you will ensure that you avoid any accidents that need urgent repairs. We hope that you have enjoyed the article and that you will keep your drains clean and well maintained. 

Meta description: Drain cleaning should be a part of your spring cleaning checklist. Read on to find out why and get to it immediately.

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry