Home Services
Can I Install A Bidet In My Apartment? (Find Out Now!)
Nearly 45 million American households are rented instead of owned. That’s a lot of people navigating apartment living! Just because you rent your place instead of owning it doesn’t mean you don’t want your rental to truly feel like home.
Where Do Mice Hide In My House?
Crawl spaces attract mice because they are perfect for nesting. Mice can nest year-round, but it often happens in the fall and winter when they need a warm, secluded location. You can also find mice in your crawl space throughout the spring and summer when mice often breed.
How Much Does A Well Pump Cost?
Wells are a convenience and a staple in American homes for centuries now. The difference between the wells of days past and wells of today is the sophisticated simplicity of great well pumps. If you have a working well, you need a well pump, but what will it cost you?
Sump Pump Running Continuously? (Possible Causes & Fixes)
A sump pump that runs continuously is the most common reason for sump pumps overheating and breaking down. If you discover that your sump pump is always running, address the issue promptly. This will prevent further damage to the sump pump and your basement.
How Long Does It Take For A Water Well To Refill? (Find Out Now!)
We all seem to take clean water for granted. You turn on the tap and freshwater flows. If you live in a rural area and depend on a water well, you may have experienced a temporary lack of water when your well goes dry from overuse. You may wonder how long does it take for a water well to refill?
Can My Landlord Come Into My Yard Without Notice? (Find Out Now!)
Your home is your sanctuary. If you have a yard then its natural beauty may be the pinnacle of your sanctuary. When you see strangers on your lawn this may cause alarm and confusion. If your landlord comes into your yard without notice, you may feel similar feelings. Worse, you might even feel like you are being spied on by your landlord. You may also wonder if your landlord has the right to just show up on your property without your permission.
Is A Landlord Responsible For Dryer Vent Cleaning? (Find Out Now!)
Between landlords and tenants, who needs to complete maintenance and cleaning tasks is a bit of a gray area. In general, tenants are responsible for cleaning up after themselves and keeping up with minor maintenance tasks. But is dryer vent cleaning something they need to take care of, or is that the landlord’s responsibility?
What Are Home Inspectors Not Allowed To Do?
There are many hurdles you must jump over on the road to purchasing or building a home. One of these hurdles is a home inspection. A home inspector will need to enter the home, survey and visualize the property, and report on his or her findings. But when it comes to home inspectors you should know that they are not a one-stop-shop. In fact there are lots of things home inspectors are not allowed to do.
Why Would My Landlord Send Me A Certified Letter? (Find Out Now!)
When you receive a letter from your landlord certified mail you may automatically think the worst. Certified mail can mean the start of the eviction process, sure. However, there are a variety of reasons a landlord may want to use this USPS service to send you information.
How Much Does It Cost To Move And Set Up A Mobile Home?
Many people choose mobile homes because they can give you convenience and the freedom to get up and go whenever you want, right? While the name suggests easy mobility, moving a mobile home does actually require a lot of effort.
Is 30/50 Or 40/60 Pressure Switch Better for a Well Water System?
Many people who have a domestic water well system are confused about the difference in pressure switches. Pressure switches are at the heart of your water well system. Its purpose is to tell the water pump that delivers water to your home when to turn on and cut off. The question often comes up about which one is the right choice for your home, a 30/50 or 40/60 pressure switch?
Can Sewer Lines Freeze? (Find Out Now!)
Sewer lines are responsible for taking the used wastewater away from our homes and directing it to the local municipal treatment plant. Sewer lines are just like any other pipe and usually have liquid coursing through them. However, cold temperatures and harsh winters can make it difficult for liquid to move through the pipe without freezing.
Can You Remove Someone From a Lease Without Consent?
There are times where the renter/landlord relationship can an interesting one. In most cases, tenants sign their lease and rarely have to deal with their landlord. In other cases, a multitude of issues can arise that can complicate the relationship.
Will Bed Bug Spray Kill Roaches? (Find Out Now!)
Roaches can be pesky little creatures that invite themselves over and then never leave. They will come out at night to steal your food and don’t give back anything in return except extra germs. Most homes have a cabinet that is full of cleaning supplies and various insecticides. So, if we have a bed bug spray on hand, will this spray also kill roaches?
10 Types Of House Moths (With Photos)
Moths are among the most unique and fascinating insects, but it’s not fun when you find them in your home. They fly around erratically and often look like colorless butterflies to the uninitiated, and that can frighten any homeowner. There are over 160,000 species of moths, but 10 of them are specifically none to live around households.
Symptoms Of A Bad Wall Thermostat (Here Are 7 Telltale Signs)
When the seasons shift, you remember just how critical your home’s heating and cooling systems are. Whether you’re entering a cold winter or a sweltering summer, make sure your thermostat is in good working order. The thermostat tells the HVAC system when it’s at the right temperature– but there are many ways miscommunications can happen.
Does Raid Bed Bug Spray Work? (Find Out Now!)
Raid is one of the biggest names in the pesticide game, and that’s no joke. It’s a world-famous company that made a name for itself by killing off bugs of all kinds. Bed bugs, though, are different than other types of pest. They’re crazy hard to kill and you may find some sprays being less effective. How does Raid spray work on bed bugs?
Can I Record My Landlord In My Apartment? (Find Out Now!)
Relationships between landlords and tenants can often be complicated. Over time it is not uncommon for issues to arise and for disagreements to commence. When you and your landlord have a disagreement it is always a good idea to collect evidence. You should also keep track of all official correspondences.
Do I Need A Permit To Install A Mini-Split? (Find Out Now!)
You need a permit to install a mini-split or replace one. The installation process of a mini-split is complex and requires working with wires, piping materials, and chemicals. Replacing a mini-split can be a dangerous job, but a professional can handle it safely.
What Is A Point-Of-Use Water Heater? (Find Out Now!)
Having hot water in a home is essential, and this is why most homeowners go out of their way to ensure they have reliable water heating systems. One way you can ensure you always have hot water at home is by installing complementary point-of-use water heaters.
How Long Does A Landlord Have To Replace A Refrigerator?
Whether you are a tenant or a landlord, a broken refrigerator can be a source of confusion and frustration in many cases. For tenants and landlords alike, it can be quite difficult to know when the landlord should replace a refrigerator when the need arises.
Hot Water Heater Not Filling Up? (Possible Causes & Fixes)
Hot water is something that all homes and most businesses need access to these days, and this is the main reason why hot water heaters are indispensable fixtures to both home and business owners. Just think about how many appliances depend on hot water in a home: the dishwasher, the washing machine, the shower, the kitchen and the bathroom sinks.
Is Your Landlord Responsible For Fallen Trees? (Find Out Now!)
If a tree falls in your apartment and only renters hear it, does it even make a sound? Well, if you’re like most renters, you will be one of the first to hear the unmistakable crash of a fallen tree. That loud bang is often accompanied by building breakage, damage to cars, and more.
14 California Bugs That Bite And Sting Hard
California is arguably the most desirable place to live in the United States. With its scenic beaches, sweeping vistas and iconic cities, California is truly a one of a kind location. While there are many reasons to live in California, it is important to know some of the less desirable qualities of this state.
What Do I Do With My Shoes for Bed Bug Treatment? (Find Out Now!)
Oftentimes, what causes do-it-yourself bed bug treatments to fail is that people neglect to treat more than just their mattress. In fact, bed bugs don’t just hang out in your mattress, they can also hide in your carpeting, bedding, clothing, personal belongings, and even your shoes. Adopting an attitude that bed bugs can infiltrate pretty much anything can help maximize your chances of getting rid of them. Shockingly enough, bed bugs can get into your shoes and there’s nothing more infuriating (and disgusting).
Does Air Duct Cleaning Really Work?
Cleaning your air ducts can improve your home’s air quality and airflow. Air ducts are constantly exposed to dust, debris, dirt, pet hair, and dead skin cells that make them dirty. Dirty air ducts can lead to health problems, especially if you have a respiratory issue like asthma.
Pilot Light Is Lit, But Furnace Won't Kick On
Nothing is more annoying in the HVAC world than when your furnace won’t kick on. It can also be intimidating at first because we all know that furnace problems sometimes lead to expensive repairs. So, what should you do when the pilot light is lit, but the furnace won’t kick on?
2 Shower P-Trap Alternatives (That Can Work)
P-traps are an integral part of plumbing, particularly when it comes to showers. They can prevent sewer odors and wastewater from seeping out and into your home. They aren’t always an option, so what are the best shower P-trap alternatives?
Replacing Galvanized Pipes With PEX. Is It Worth It?
Galvanized pipes have many ways of telling you they need replacing. Perhaps they make weird noises, or maybe you notice decreased water pressure due to plaque buildup. You might even notice a slight discoloration in the water.
How Much Does Home Inspection Cost in Chicago?
Whether you’re buying or selling a home in Chicago (or the suburbs), you never want to move forward without getting a home inspection. These inspections let you know exactly what you’re getting into before you finalize the purchase – allowing you to ask the seller to make repairs and/or back of the deal, if necessary.
How Much Does Bat Removal Cost?
Your home should be your sanctuary, but pests like ants, termites, and mice do not care about disturbing your peace. All of those pests are annoying to deal with, but at least we are familiar with them. If the pest that has invaded your household is a bat, you may have a more complicated issue on your hands.
Is A Landlord Responsible For Water Damage? (Find Out Now!)
The other night, a friend of mine came back to his apartment from a night out, only to see that the toilet had flooded. There was brown stuff everywhere, and he was horrified. I mean, most of us would be, right? He called up his landlord and asked who was responsible for this. The answer might surprise you.
How To Prevent Termites In Your Home
While termites can feast on living trees, they prefer dead ones. Dead trees attract termites who can devour them until they’re ready to move on to something else. In some cases, they move on to other trees whereas others move on to nearby structures.
How To Fix Dry Air In A House
Dry air can be a real problem, especially inside your home during the coldest months of the year. Humidity already tends to be lower in the coldest weather, and as you raise heat in your home, you may actually continue to decrease the relative humidity. Before you start to get dry and itchy skin, or experience static cling every time you put on your clothes, you might want to address the humidity issue. But how do you fix the problem of dry air in a house?
Can A Landlord Charge For Dead Grass? (Find Out Now!)
It is often overwhelming to return an apartment to its original state upon moving out. Making sure everything is back in order and clean is daunting. It may be particularly frustrating then, when you have finished cleaning the house and notice the lawn is dead. This begs the question, “Can a landlord charge me for dead grass?”
AC Unit Humming But Not Turning On? (We Have The Answer)
Problems with AC units can be understandably unnerving, especially when they hum without turning on. This is caused by several reasons such as a bad capacitor or broken motor. Whether it be replacing parts or replacing the entire unit, let’s explore what you should do when your AC hums but won’t turn on.
How To Ask A Landlord If My Boyfriend Can Move In
Moving in together is an exciting opportunity to take your relationship to the next level. You get to spend more time together and learn about each other. You certainly don’t want anything to cause unnecessary issues, especially not issues with your landlord. But you aren’t sure how to ask your landlord if your boyfriend can move in.
How Much Does A R22 To R410a A/C Conversion Cost?
Your old A/C system is on the fritz, so naturally, you’d call the repairman to come to fix it, right? Unfortunately, depending on how old your system is, the solution may not be that simple. If you have an air conditioning unit manufactured before 2010, you may be required to rebuild or replace it.
How To Get Rid Of Spiders In Your Basement
Spiders can understandably make anyone feel uncomfortable in their house. Not only do they look scary, but some of them, like brown recluses, are quite dangerous. You may struggle with how to get rid of spiders in your basement, but it’s quite easy.
Furnace Blower Motor Making Noise When Starting? (Here's Why)
Your furnace is a complicated piece of equipment. There are a variety of components within that run in tandem with one another to ensure that your home can remain comfortable and warm even when temperatures are below zero.
What Is The Best Water Heater Brand? (Find Out Now!)
There are few appliances that are as central to your lifestyle and comfort as a water heater. Everything from your daily chores, to your hygiene, to your level of comfort, is affected by how well (or not well) your water heater supplies hot water to your home.
Moving to Hawaii: Should I Ship My Car or Buy a New One?
When you first tell people that you’re moving to Hawaii, most people will congratulate you on your new island lifestyle. Some aspects of the move are pretty obvious. You are going to have to pack up and ship your belongings to the island. However, some items aren’t as clear cut. What should you do about your car? Is it worth shipping it over, or should you buy a new one?
What Is A Condensing Tankless Water Heater? (Find Out Now!)
All homes and most businesses can’t do without a water heater, and this is because hot water is needed in homes and businesses for a variety of reasons. There are different kinds of water heaters available in 2021, as the days of 50-gallon-tank heaters being the norm are long over.
Can A Propane Furnace Be Installed In A Basement?
Proper planning is critical when installing appliances. If you rush the initial planning, you risk creating more problems in the future. Especially when it comes to propane furnaces, your initial blueprint is essential. There are many reasons to chooses a propane furnace. Some people don’t live close enough to town for natural gas. Others might be looking to replace an old propane furnace. Regardless, if you wonder which areas of the house are appropriate for installation, you’ve come to the right place.
Why Are There So Many Ant Hills In My Yard?
The sight of ants in your yard or home can understandably be discomforting. Not only are ant hills ugly, but they can indicate that you have an upcoming ant problem on your hands. Many homeowners have asked themselves the question: why are there so many ant hills in my yard?
Can You Move Furniture In Before Having A Certificate Of Occupancy?
Are you building a new home to live in or a new building in which to work? If yes, then you may wonder about the Certificate of Occupancy. A common question that arises is can you move furniture in before receiving a Certificate of Occupancy?
Is Your Toilet Coupling Nut Leaking? (Fix It Now!)
If your toilet is leaking, it can quickly create a disaster in a bathroom. Not only can a leaky toilet create a problematic situation in your bathroom, leading to mold and mildew, but it can be costly to waste water, which can cause sky-high utility bills. Luckily, most toilet leaks are easy to identify and simple to repair, requiring just a few standard tools that most DIY homeowners have.
Can A Condo Board Reject A Renter? (Find Out Now!)
In places like New York City and San Francisco, people who own condos often make a killing by renting it out. This is true for both short-term and long-term rentals. However, if you are in a condo, things always have to pass muster with the HOA. Can your condo board retain the right to reject a renter?
Landlord Not Paying Mortgage? (Here's What You Can Do)
When you pay your landlord rent every month you probably don’t think about where that money goes. You may assume your landlord owns the home and the rent is just income. Maybe you think that your rent is what pays the mortgage. Either way it surely must come as a shock when you find out that your landlord has stopped paying the mortgage on the property where you pay rent.
What Is The Green Stuff On My Copper Pipes?
Finding an unusual coloration, namely green, on your copper pipes can be disturbing. You may have questions racing through your head, which is an entirely typical response to this. So let’s answer this question: what is the green stuff on your copper pipes?
Tips To Make Moving With Pets Easier
By now, you’ve probably noticed that your pets can tell something is going on. Cats and dogs are perceptive, and the packing process may pique their interest. That’s one of the reasons why you must wait to pack your pet’s things until right before you move.
Can A Landlord Evict You For Having A Baby? (Find Out Now!)
Welcoming a baby into the family is often one of the most memorable and precious moments in a person’s life. Preparing a nursery for a child can be a full-time job in itself. From purchasing a crib to gathering a wardrobe, the entire process can leave you tired and broke.
Furnace Won't Turn Off? (Possible Causes & Fixes)
As a homeowner, you’re already used to dealing with repairs and maintenance projects throughout your home. That said, it should come as no surprise that issues can arise with your furnace, too. A furnace can be a life saver during the cold winter months, which is why it’s important to ensure it is working properly. That means you can count on it to blow hot air through your home when you need it and to shut off when you don’t. So, what should you do if the furnace won’t turn off at all?
Bed Bugs Vs. Roaches: How to Tell the Difference
There are few things more frustrating in the world than bed bugs and roach infestations. If not addressed properly, a cockroach problem can lead to serious health concerns, hygiene issues, and even the spread of diseases. Whereas, neglecting a bed bug infestation can result in major allergies, skin infections, costly remediation, and even a negative impact on your mental health.
Green Sewer Pipe Vs. White: What Are The Major Differences?
Modern plumbing is as advanced as it has ever been, and that makes it hard to wrap your head around. The color of a particular pipe may simply seem cosmetic, but it signifies its purpose and certain properties. So, what is the difference between green and white sewer pipes?
Rheem Vs. Goodman: Which Air Conditioner Is Better?
Air conditioners will no doubt play an important role in your home. When you live in hotter climates especially, going without air conditioning means a very sweaty experience. But choosing the right unit is key as well.
14 Ways To Keep Spiders Out Of Your Home
One easy way to reduce the likelihood of spider and other insect infestations is to reduce the amount of clutter in your home. For one, clutter can attract small insects that spiders eat.
AC Unit Fan Is Not Spinning And Is Hot? (Fix It Now!)
A properly functioning AC unit is a must in sweltering hot summers. It’s easy to panic if you notice your air conditioner isn’t working correctly. One common problem is an AC unit with a fan that is not spinning and that is hot.
Where Can I Get Free Boxes?
Are you getting ready to move? Or maybe you’ve finally made the decision to declutter the house. Now, you need boxes…lots of boxes. But you really don’t want to spend your hard-earned money, so where can you get boxes for free?
How To Know If You Have Termites
It’s likely one of every homeowner’s biggest fears — termites in your house. The unsettling thing is that termites could be feasting on your house for three years before you notice visible damage. By this time, the extent of the problems can be devastating and costly, so recognizing early signs of termites is critical.