FAQ's
1) Is there anything I need to do when I first move in?
2) How should I look after my new lawn?
3) What does the NHBC Buildmark guarantee?
4) What should I do to keep my home working perfectly?
5) What should I think about when decorating?
6) What about electricity, gas and water?
1) Is there anything I need to do when I first move in?
When you move into your new home and turn on the central heating your house will warm up and start to dry out. This is nothing to worry about and you should not notice any effects, however for the first few months after you move in keep your home well ventilated and at an even temperature. This will stop escaping moisture being trapped and causing damp.
2) How should I look after my new lawn?
The most important thing is not to let your new turf dry out - this will cause it to shrink. This means that if it is very dry you may have to water your lawn every evening. Mow your lawn regularly once it has started to grow and use a good quality lawn fertilizer to keep it in tip-top condition.
3) What does the NHBC Buildmark guarantee?
For the first two years after you move in the Buildmark guarantees you against any defect or damage found in your home that has been caused by faulty workmanship or materials. For the following eight years you are insured against major damage due to a defect in the structure or damage to the drainage system caused by non-compliance with the NHBC's technical requirements.
4) What should I do to keep my home working perfectly?
The most important thing to do is to make sure that all appliances, including your central heating boiler, are used in line with their manufacturer's guidelines and that they are serviced by experts at the right times. For example boilers should be serviced annually by a Corgi-registered company.
Chimneys should be swept once a year, radiators bled as necessary (normally during the winter) and external woodwork (such as fences) treated every year to stop it rotting. Check the water level in your cisterns every few months and ensure that any floats or valves are working properly.
Keep gutters and drains clear of leaves and check your roof tiles after extreme weather, check plumbing for leaks and electrical wiring and fittings for frayed wires or loose connections. Check all paintwork annually for damage and look for shrinkage and settling in the sealants around your bath and shower. Vacuum your carpets regularly to keep them looking their best. Do not worry if they initially shed a lot of fluff - this is normal.
5) What should I think about when decorating?
Before drilling into walls, use a cable detector to locate unprotected cables. Check for underfloor pipes and cables before nailing down carpet-fixing strip or any other new floor covering.
6) What about electricity, gas and water?
Your electricity and gas meters will normally be outside your home, in a recessed cabinet. You'll be given a key to turn off your gas supply, if you detect a leak. Check you know where your circuit breakers are (normally next to meter). If a circuit trips, check the appliance or bulb first and replace if necessary. Make sure you know where your water supply stop cock is so that you can turn off your water in an emergency.