TABLE OF CONTENTS

Emergency Contact Information Warranty Contact Information Home Care:

1. MAJOR SYSTEMS a. Heating & Ventilation b. Moisture & Humidity c. Plumbing d. Electrical Systems

2. INTERIOR

a. Smoke & Co2 Detector b. Kitchen & Bathrooms

• Tubs & Sinks • Countertops

c. Flooring • Hardwood • Porcelain Tile • Berber Carpeting

d. House Insulation e. Windows f. The Basement

• Concrete Floors & Walls • Floor Drains • Hot Water Tank • Framing & Drywall

3. EXTERIOR a. Walkways, Stairs & Porches b. Driveways c. Foundation & Garage Walls d. Garage Floor e. Brick Work f. Exterior Painting g. Wooden Decks h. Weather Stripping i. Hose Connections j. Roof

4. HOME CARE CHECKLIST

5. TARION INFORMATION

a. Warranty Highlights b. Warranty Forms c. Warranty Service Request

6. GARBAGE & RECYCLING

 

 

 

HOME CARE MANUAL Welcome to the Estates of River Oaks!

We appreciate that your new home is a very large investment. As such, we encourage you to take an active role in maintaining your house to give you years of care-free pleasure and to help avoid unnecessary repairs.

Regular maintenance will help ensure that the systems and appliances in your home run smoothly, and will also assist to protect your warranty. This regular maintenance is an important component of home ownership.

Please review the contents of this manual – we hope it will be a helpful guide for you.

 

 

**PLEASE CALL 911 FOR ALL LIFE THREATENING SITUATIONS**

BIDDINGTON HOMES EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

DART Electric Should you experience loss of electricity; contact information below

Danny Panagoulia 416-618-7785 Remo Fraioli 647-526-0027

ICON Plumbing Should you experience plumbing/water leaks; contact information below Mike Ladisa 647-526-0028 Joseph Ferrari 647-526-0027 National Air Should you experience loss of heat; contact information below Errol Gracey 416-823-4732 Dayne Lyn 416-823-2963 THE CITY OF OAKVILLE EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

24-Hour Emergency Assistance 905-825-9400 Website: www.oakvillehydro.com

If you suspect a natural gas leak or a buildup of carbon monoxide 24-Hour Emergency Assistance 1-877-969-0999

 

 

BIDDINGTON WARRANTY AND CONTACT SERVICE INFORMATION Weekday Hours Monday – Thursday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Weekends & Holiday Hours CLOSED If you have any questions regarding your home warranty, or would like to book a service appointment for your 30-Day, Year End, or Second Year warranty items, please call 905-337-9047. To report any deficiencies, please email your concerns to warranty@biddington.com .

 

 

MAJOR SYSTEMS – 1.0 Heating, plumbing and electrical delivery and distribution systems are covered with a 2 year warranty by the builder from defects in workmanship and materials. HEATING & VENTILATION________________________________________________________________________________ 1.a Your home is outfitted with a high efficiency furnace, a HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilation), an air conditioner and humidifier, to provide optimal, efficient heating and cooling (95% or greater). Furnace Maintenance

• Furnace should be serviced every 2-3 years • Hiring a professional for this maintenance is strongly recommended • The furnace filter should be checked on a regular basis and replaced when dirty, preferably once a month • For more information: http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science/expert/video/1503

HRV Maintenance

• Turn your HRV off and unplug • Clean or replace air filters:

o Clean air filters every 2-3 months with a vacuum cleaner, wash with soap and water • Check outdoor intake and exhaust vents:

o Remove leaves or other debris that may be blocking the outside vents o During winter, clean snow or frost if blocking the vent

• Inspect the condensate drain - pipe or plastic tube coming out of the bottom: o Slowly pour 2 liters of clean, warm water in each drain pan inside the HRV to ensure it is flowing freely,

if it is backed up, clean drain • Service the Fans:

o Remove the dirt that has accumulated on the blades by gently brushing them • For more information: http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/grho/grho_003.cfm

Ventilation & Air Flow

• Discontinue use of humidifier in the basement during the spring, summer and fall season • Keep all floor air vents open and unobstructed at all times

 

 

MOISTURE & HUMIDITY_______________________________________________________________________1.b Humidity levels in your home should generally be maintained at 30% to 45% depending on the season. Tip:

• Purchase a hygrometer to monitor the moisture levels in the home For more information on controlling moisture and humidity in your home, please visit the “Problems and Remedies Guide”: http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/grho/moaiprre/index.cfm Additional information can also be found in a Tarion publication: http://www.tarion.com/New-Home-Buyers/Maintaining-Your-Home/Pages/default.aspx PLUMBING____________________________________________________________________________________1.c The main shut-off valve for the water in your house is attached to the water meter in the basement. This valve controls the water flow from the municipal water pipes below the street level into the house. Tips:

• Specific area shut-off valves are located under each sink and at the back of each toilet, in case of any leaks • Alterations to the plumbing infrastructure will void the warranty • Grease, food and laundry lint could cause blockages reducing the efficiency of the drainage system, voiding any

plumbing warranty • Items other than toilet paper and natural waste should not be flushed down the toilet, as it will block proper flow,

voiding any plumbing warranty ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS_______________________________________________________________________1.d GFI (Ground Fault Interrupters) are integrated in the bathrooms and kitchens. GFI’s are used to prevent serious accidents or injuries that can occur when water and electricity are in the same area. The GFI will immediately shut off the circuit’s power, should it “sense” a problem. Should you encounter an electrical outlet or switch fails to work, it could be a circuit breaker has tripped. Some examples that could be the cause;

• Too many items plugged in on the same circuit • Defective plug connection • Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) has tripped – exterior plug or bathroom • Worn or damage wires on appliances or lamps

In the event there is no power to an outlet, check the breaker in the electrical panel in the basement. If the breaker is in the “on” position, flip it to the “off” position, and then back to the “on” position again - this will reset the circuit.

 

 

INTERIOR – 2.0 SMOKE ALARM & CO2 DETECTORS___________________________________________________________2.a These alarms and detectors are installed in your home to help ensure your safety, and are in compliance with current building standards. The alarms are integrated into the electrical system if the house and do not require batteries for operation. Smoke and CO2 detectors should be tested regularly, ensuring they are in working order. Press the “test” button on the face of the detector to confirm operation. Should this not work, vacuum the excess dust build up. Please call the warranty department to have the unit inspected immediately. There is a 2 Year Warranty on smoke alarms and CO2 detectors. KITCHEN & BATHROOMS_____________________________________________________________________2.b Tubs & Sinks Drains and plumbing fixtures contain water filled traps, holding a few cups of water to prevent sewer gases from entering the home. If any sinks, bath tubs or floor drains are not used for an extended period of time, it is possible the water seal has evaporated. Simply pour a few cups of water down the drain to re-establish the seal. To avoid scratches and chips, never use abrasive materials to clean tubs and sinks. Countertops Granite counter tops require proper maintenance to prevent abrasions and scratches. Tips:

• Avoid using cleaning products with any kind of acids or abrasives • Do not stand, kneel down on or sit on your countertops, as countertops could crack or break • Do not place hot pans or other hot objects directly on your countertops • Do not use countertops as a cutting board

FLOORING___________________________________________________________________________________2.c Hardwood Hardwood flooring is a manufactured product, and although hardwood is durable, proper maintenance will maximize its life cycle.

 

 

Tips:

• Wipe up spills immediately • Sweep or dust mop your hardwood floor weekly (or more), as required • Area rugs are recommended in front of kitchen sinks and all pivot points within high-traffic areas (rugs must be

made of breathable material to prevent moisture entrapment) • Use slip-resistant backings on runners and area rugs to avoid injuries • Use protector pads under all furniture legs • Protect floors from direct sunlight • Keep the humidity in your home between 35-55% • Keeping household pets nails trimmed will help minimize scratches on your hardwood (but will NOT prevent it)

DONT’S:

• DO NOT use any of the following products on your hardwood: o Ammonia based cleaners o Acrylic finishing o Wax based products o Detergents or bleach o Polishes or oil based soaps o Abrasive cleaning soaps or acidic materials (such as vinegar)

• DO NOT allow water to stand on your floor for any length of time - wipe immediately • DO NOT roll or slide furniture or heavy appliances across the floor without protection • DO NOT allow furniture to rest on your floors that have small metal tips or hard domes - use protective pads • DO NOT walk on hardwood excessively with shoes • DO NOT use a vacuum to clean hardwood. If you must use a vacuum, it is recommended that the vacuum head

be brushed or felt -tipped to minimize damage Helpful tip for chewing gum or candle wax stuck on your hardwood floors:

• Apply a sealed plastic bag filled with ice on top of the deposit • Wait for deposit to become brittle enough to crumble – remove and clean

Porcelain Tile Porcelain tile is durable, environmentally friendly, and easy to clean and maintain. Tips:

• Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the floor • Clean with a damp mop using water and mild detergent

 

 

Carpeting High quality Berber carpet and underlay has been installed in your home. Tips:

• Vacuum regularly, and avoid using vacuum cleaners with beater bars or brushes, as they can damage the fabric • Steam cleaning is most suitable for Berber carpets • Keep sharp objects away • To tackle a spill on the carpet, blot a dry paper towel on it. Never rub, as it will cause discoloration.

HOUSE INSULATION__________________________________________________________________________2.d On occasion, check to see that the attic insulation remains all leveled. During very windy days, strong winds can enter the baffles and shift the positioning of the insulation. WINDOWS____________________________________________________________________________________2.e Tips:

• Complete thorough inspection seasonally. Check the condition of the window frame and sash for any signs of moisture infiltration

• Directly sunlight can cause certain areas of the frame to become brittle, and cause it to warp • Replace all worn out rubber seals that are creating gaps around the window. This will help reduce air and water

leaks. It also helps to secure the window in place • Use caulking to help seal your window as required

BASEMENT___________________________________________________________________________________2.f Concrete Floors and Walls Basement walls are subject to unique stresses because the wall temperature and moisture content vary for portions of the wall that are above and below grade respectively. The base of the wall is below grade and maintains a fairly uniform temperature, whereas the upper portion of the wall is above grade and subject to a wide range of seasonal temperature variations. During the first year after the basement concrete is poured, there is still water present in the new concrete. This water evaporates to the inside of the basement and may result in floors that feel damp to the touch. Avoid placing materials such as carpets or boxes directly on the floor during the first year of owning your home.

 

 

Tips:

• Make sure downspouts are in place, and that the rainwater is being directed away from your home’s foundation • Check to see if the soil around the home has settled. If there is a depression near your home, fill this area so that

there is at least a 10% slope away from your house • Make sure your window wells are not accumulating water

Floor Drains The floor drain(s), located near the furnace or hot water tank, will automatically retain water in a trap to seal against gasses entering the basement from the municipal sewer system. This water can evaporate over time and allow sewer odors into your home. To avoid this, ensure there is always water in the drain. Every few months you should pour water down the drain to re-seal the trap. Note: the drain is installed near the furnace and hot water tank to collect excess water and is not intended to drain water from entire basements floor area. Hot Water Tank Please refer to your Hot Water Tank rental agreement. For any additional information, please visit: https://www.enercare.ca/ Framing & Drywall The wood used to construct your house naturally contains moisture, which will dry out and shrink in the home’s first year. The following commonplace issues may arise:

• Thin cracks in exposed wood structures like joist and beams • Small gaps between cabinets and walls • Squeaks could develop in the wood flooring and stairs • Framing nails may pop in the drywall, and minor cracks may appear. Causes are due to shrinking and expanding

of the wood framing, behind the drywall Tips:

• It is recommended that you delay re-painting and any final decorating plans until the construction material has dried out (waiting a year for a complete heating and cooling cycle)

• Use a humidifier and a dehumidifier throughout the seasons to balance humidity, which helps to minimize excessive expansion and contraction of the house structure

 

 

EXTERIOR – 3.0 WALKWAYS, STAIRS & PORCHES______________________________________________________________3.a Seasonal conditions such as ground frost penetration can cause the ground beneath walkways, concrete stairs and driveways to heave or crack. Most areas will return to normal once warmer conditions return, however, these natural occurring changes are NOT warranted by the builder or Tarion. DRIVEWAYS___________________________________________________________________________________3.b Here are a few methods to consider when preparing/maintaining your driveway for the winter:

• Remove ice and snow from driveway as soon as possible • Remove slush to prevent surface damage • Apply concrete sealers to help avoid salt damage

FOUNDATION & GARAGE WALLS______________________________________________________________3.c Poured concrete may experience hairline cracks due to settlement. This is normal and will not affect the integrity of the concrete, however, monitor the cracks, and should they continue to increase to a size of 6mm+, please notify your warranty/customer care representative. GARAGE FLOOR______________________________________________________________________________ 3.d Like the foundation, the garage floor is poured concrete. Once again, it is normal to find hairline cracks as the concrete cures, but cracks should be monitored as above. BRICK WORK_________________________________________________________________________________3.e Openings in the brick wall at the top and bottom are called weep holes. Weep holes allow condensation and moisture to pass through the wall-face to the outside. DO NOT cover or fill in the spaces.

 

 

EXTERIOR PAINTING________________________________________________________________________3.f As all exterior paint surfaces are exposed to extreme weather conditions, homeowners should have a regular maintenance program to repaint to maintain best appearance. DO NOT paint in cold or damp weather for best results. WOODEN DECKS____________________________________________________________________________3.g Wooden decks are constructed with pressure treated wood and are best treated with a special protective coating (given decks are high traffic areas and are exposed to the elements). Tips:

• Cleaners: apply cleaner and allow to sit for the recommended amount of time and then flush • Pressure wash: DO NOT focus on one spot for too long, as this could damage the wood • Damaged wood: knock in protruding nails, and replace boards that are deteriorating • Wood splinters: use a sander to smooth rough spots

WEATHER STRIPPING_________________________________________________________________________3.h All exterior windows and doors are equipped with a rubberized weather strip sealer, preventing dust, air infiltration, and water penetration. Complete an annual inspection to ensure a proper seal is maintained. DO NOT paint over weather stripping. HOSE CONNECTIONS_________________________________________________________________________3.i Each home has 1 rear exterior hose bib and 1 garage hose bib with internal shut-offs. To avoid the lines freezing, ensure shut-offs are properly drained and closed before winter. Shut offs are located in basement. ROOF________________________________________________________________________________________3.j Homeowners should inspect their roof following a significant storm, and repair any storm-related damages immediately. These occurrences are not covered by the Tarion or Builder warranty, after the one-year anniversary.

 

 

HOME CARE SUGGESTED CHECKLIST – 4.0

Tarion Home Maintenance information: Tips:

• Clear eavestroughs of debris regularly and extend downspouts so that water is directed away from your home. Water that flows around the foundation could eventually find its way into the basement

• Have your roof inspected regularly to ensure shingles, flashing and chimney caps are in place and sealed properly • Fix the caulking around windows and doors and on the roof if it becomes cracked or separated • Clean or replace your furnace filter • Check air ducts, remove covers and vacuum dust from vents • Investigate and identify any musty smells and odours. They are often an indicator that there could be a hidden

moisture problem • In the winter, shut off the exterior water supply and drain water lines • Install winter cover for air conditioning unit • Check roofing and flashing for signs of wear or damage • Check/clean heat recovery ventilator (HRV); wash or replace filter • Clean the mechanisms of the humidifier • Check for condensation and proper humidity levels

For New Home Maintenance Checklists by Season: http://www.tarion.com/Resources/FH-HIP/Pages/Maintaining-your-New-Home.aspx

 

 

TARION INFORMATION– 5.0

WARRANTY HIGHLIGHTS___________________________________________________________________5.a Biddington Homes Oakville Inc. places quality at the core of its building objectives. The Estates of River Oaks is no exception. As is understandable, issues do nonetheless arise over the life of your home. Provided below are the highlights of your warranty protection covered by Tarion, for the first 2 years of possession. Please refer to your Tarion Homeowner Information Package for additional information on inspections and warranty forms. It is your responsibility as a homeowner to be knowledgeable and educated about your home. Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) The Pre-Delivery Inspection is the first opportunity for you to view your completed home and assess its condition. At this time, someone from Biddington (PDI representative) will walk through the house with you to note any deficiencies, and to show you how to operate the main operating systems in the home (heat, electrical, plumbing and ventilation). As indicated earlier, the PDI representative will note items that are incomplete, damaged, missing or not operating properly. Once the PDI is complete, a copy will be provided to you. Please note that you will receive your certificate of completion after the PDI for your records. 30 Day Warranty Form During the first 30 days in your new home, you may find minor items that require adjustments. These items should be noted on the 30 Day Form, which is available in your Home Care and Warranty Manual. Also, any items listed on the PDI form that have not yet been completed, should be included. This form must be submitted to Tarion within the first 30 days after taking possession. Year End Warranty Form The Year End Form is used to notify the builder and Tarion of any outstanding warranty items, which you have observed since the submission of the 30-Day Form. This form must be submitted during the last 30 days of your first year possession.

 

 

Second Year Warranty Form The Two Year Form can be submitted anytime during the second year of possession. This warranty covers water penetration through the basement or foundation walls; defects in materials or workmanship that result in water penetration of the building; defects in the work and materials in the electrical, plumbing and heating delivery and distribution systems. Any warrantable items must be reported to the builder prior to the end of your second year. Emergency Exceptions to the Warranty Process A warranted emergency situation should be reported to your builder immediately, within the first two years of occupancy. Emergency situation are defined as;

• Gas leak • Total loss of heat between September 15th - May 15th • Total loss of electricity • Total loss of water supply • Plumbing leaks that require complete water shut-off • Major water penetration of an interior wall or ceiling, due to a burst pipe • Major collapse of any part of the house • Total sewage stoppage

IMPORTANT: Please refer to the Emergency Contact Information provided above if needed. PLEASE NOTE: Emergency situations due to the failure of municipal or utility provided services are not covered under warranty, and are not under the builder’s control. For example, loss of heat from your hot water tank is not an emergency, and you will need to contact the service provider accordingly. WARRANTY FORMS__________________________________________________________________________5.b All Tarion warranty forms can be found on www.tarion.com such as:

• 30 Day Form • Year End Form • Second Year Form

Simply click on “My Home” to register, complete and submit. For more information, please call 1-877-9-TARION (1-877-982-7466).

 

 

WARRANTY SERVICE REQUEST_______________________________________________________________5.c Please submit all service request via email to: warranty@biddington.com . Additionally, please ensure that all the necessary information is provided such as;

• Lot # and Civic Address • Contact Name • Detailed information on what needs to be serviced

 

 

GARBAGE & RECYCLING – 6.0 Garbage & Recycling Information Information for Halton Region Waste Management: http://www.halton.ca/living_in_halton/recycling_waste General Information for The City of Oakville: http://www.oakville.ca