My Builders Warranty

FAQ

What should I do if…

I notice a crack in my basement floor or garage

My sump pump stops working?

Check the electric breaker to be sure it is in the “on” position, and make sure that it is plugged into the outlet.
Make sure activation float is not entangled in the electric cord.
Make sure to check your sump at least twice a year, usually in the spring and fall, to ensure proper operation during peak times.
The outlet that the sump is plugged into is a dedicated circuit for the sump only. For proper operation, never plug the sump pump into a power strip with a surge protector. It could trip without your knowledge and therefore not allow the sump to operate as needed.
Contact Builders Warranty Company if needed.

I hear floor squeaks from time to time

A squeak-proof floor is not always possible due to lumber shrinkage and humidity changes
The builder corrects the squeak if caused by defective joist

The door to my bathroom starts to rub or has difficulty latching

Seasonal changes cause doors to expand and contract; the problems are usually temporary
Builder will correct if caused by faulty workmanship or materials

The caulking around my kitchen or bathroom countertops is cracking and breaking away from the wall

Seasonal changes and drying out cause all homes to have some caulking failure
You are responsible for future caulking maintenance and our technicians will show you how to make those repairs during the Year-End Anniversary Care visit

My water heater does not produce hot water

If you have an electric water heater, make sure the breaker switch is in the “on” position and the water heater is properly connected
If problem persists, contact Builders Warranty Company

My air conditioner fails to operate one hot summer night

Make sure the breaker switch is in the “on” position and that the furnace filter is clean and in the proper position
If problem persists, contact Builders Warranty Company

My garage door opener suddenly stops working?

Check to make sure the breaker in the main breaker panel is in the “on” position
Make sure that it is plugged into the outlet (located in the ceiling above the opener)
Make sure that there is nothing obstructing the electric eye, and that it has not been knocked out of alignment. Please see your opener’s instruction manual on how to align the eyes-should this occur.

My shingles appear to be raised?

Because construction takes place year-round, there may be times when the shingles do not have the chance to properly seal, due to cold temperatures. Generally shingles will seal once warmer weather has set in.

I see some condensation on a window(s)?

Condensation is due to high levels of humidity in the house. If a humidifier is in use, you may need to adjust the setting to a lower level.
Some lifestyles lend themselves to higher levels of humidity.
If there are window coverings which prevent circulation of air, you may need to raise or open the coverings to allow moisture to dissipate, or simply crack your window open to allow fresh air to circulate.

My kitchen counter appears to be pulling away from the wall?

Gaps that appear between the countertop and the wall may be caused by changes in temperature and humidity. This may cause the caulking to shrink, or movement in the backsplash and wall. This is usually temporary and will correct itself as temperatures and humidity levels change.
Caulking on countertop may need to be touched up or re-caulked as your regular home maintenance.

My smoke alarms start going off intermittently?

For your safety, clean each smoke detector monthly to prevent false alarms or lack of response in a fire. Dust particles in the sensor may trigger a false indication that the battery needs to be replaced. Cleaning with a vacuum cleaner and then testing may avoid replacing a good battery.
Batteries may need to be replaced if the smoke detector makes a chirping sound. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for installing a new battery. The manufacturer recommends replacing the batteries annually.
If the problem persists contact Builders Warranty Company.

I have some light bulbs that need to be changed in my vaulted ceiling?

Go to your local home improvement or hardware store, where you can purchase an appropriate height ladder, or purchase a tool designed for the purpose of changing bulbs normally out of reach.

My Whirlpool tub is not working?

Check the electric breaker to be sure it is in the “on” position.
Check the GFCI outlet (which is usually located in the master closet), to see if it needs to be re-set.
If necessary contact Builders Warranty Company

Water came in the window track and overflowed when it rained?

In heavy rains, water may collect in the bottom channel of window and sliding glass door frames. Weep holes are provided to allow excess water to escape to the outside. Keep the tracks clean and the weep holes free of dirt and debris for proper operation.

I will be away from my home for an extended absence?

If you plan to be away for an extended period, you should drain your water supply lines. To do this, shut off the main supply line and open the faucets to relieve pressure in the lines. You may also wish to shut off the water heater. Do this by turning off the cold water supply valve on top and the gas control at the bottom. Drain the tank by running a hose from the spigot on the bottom to the basement floor drain. If you leave the tank full, keep the pilot on and set the temperature to its lowest or “vacation” setting. Check manufacturer’s directions for additional hints and instructions.