MT WARRANTY BHR- 03.21.2020 [HH edits 1.24.20][14111210v2]€¦ · [HomeCareGuide_Rev02182020v2] 1...

HOMEOWNER’S MANUAL

PRIMARY CONTACT INFORMATION

Northwest Energy

L&L Trash Service

Belgrade Public Works – Water

Belgrade Public Works - Sewer

Century Link

Charter/Spectrum

Police, Fire, Ambulance Emergency

Central Valley Fire District (Airport)

Belgrade Police – Non-Emergency

Montana Highway Patrol

Gallatin County Sheriff- Non Emergency

Montana Wildlife Control

Poison Control

Hazardous Material

Belgrade City School District

Bozeman Deaconess

Belgrade Clinic Urgent Care

Luna Properties

888-467-2669

406-388-7171

406-388-3760

406-388-3760

855-263-9576

866-874-2389

911

406-388-4480

406-388-4262

406-813-4050

406-582-2100

406-581-8583

800-222-1222

888-255-3924

406-388-6951

406-414-5000

406-414-3334

406-582-7490

HOME UTILITIES

EMERGENCY SERVICES

SCHOOL DISTRICT

HOSPITALS

HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION

Tedra Bates

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UTILITY SERVICE INFORMATION Dear Homeowner: It is important for you to make the necessary arrangements to ensure utility service is provided to your new home. This will entail contacting the utility company, paying for the deposit and making the arrangements to have the utilities available as of a specific date. It is our policy to immediately notify the utility companies to disconnect service in our name when a home is purchased and either the escrow is closed, or possession is given to the purchaser. In order to ensure that you will not be left without utilities at a certain time it is imperative that you contact the utility companies several days in advance of your move in date. The following is a list of telephone numbers for the companies that you will need to contact to make these arrangements. TELEPHONE/ CABLE/ INTERNET

Charter/Spectrum Communications (866) 874-2389 Century Link (855) 263-9576 GAS & ELECTRIC Northwestern Energy (888) 467-2669 WATER Belgrade Public Works (406) 388-3760 SEWER Belgrade Public Works (406) 338-3760 GARBAGE L&L Site Services (406) 388-7171 Please Note: You are obligated (within 5 days of close of escrow) to transfer the utilities to your name or the service will be disconnected.

FDAS

EMERGENCY SERVICE PROCEDURES

EMERGENCY SERVICE PROCEDURES

In the case of an actual emergency, phone the appropriate contractor. Emergencies such as, plumbing leak, gas leak, roof leak, total electrical failure, heating or air conditioning failure are to be addressed immediately and can lead to serious damage to property and persons if not addressed safely and in a timely manner. If the warranty is due to a warrantable condition, notify your warranty-department as soon as practical. The following numbers are provided should an emergency situation occur:

PLUMBING HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Prescott Ranch Campbells Plumbing

406-580-1659

Prescott Ranch Rocky Mountain HVAC

406-813-0575

ELECTRICAL GAS LEAK Prescott Ranch Bowen Electric

406-581-4904

Prescott Ranch Northwestern Energy

888-467-2669

ROOFING APPLIANCES Prescott Ranch BSC Contracting

406-581-9459

Prescott Ranch Ferguson Appliances

406-522-8549

GARAGE DOORS Prescott Ranch Overhead Door

406-388-2767

If the subcontractor is unable to respond and/or the emergency cannot be addressed by the subcontractor listed above, please resolve the emergency situation through reasonable action using appropriate resources. Save all receipts and documentation of the incident to submit to Bates Homes. Bates Homes will reimburse you the reasonable cost of the warrantable emergency work. Should any emergency work prove to be not covered by the warranty or the fault of the Homeowner, the Homeowner will be responsible for all incurred expenses. When repairing or replacing finished surface of materials, the builder will try to match the materials, color, and texture as closely as possible but does not claim to repair or replace of any exactness. For all non-emergency work, please submit requests to Bates Homes using the Homeowner Portal at BatesHomes.com.

Tedra Bates

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PRE PURCHASE QUALITY CONTROL PROCEDURES At Bates Homes it is our desire to provide you with the best possible customer service. In doing so, we will ask that you meet with your Customer Service Representative for a series of scheduled walkthrough appointment’s in an effort to deliver a defect free home. Pre Purchase Walk Through appointments with your Customer Service Representative are designed to make sure that your home is delivered complete and that any defects or flaws related to the construction of the home are corrected prior to your move-in. At the walkthrough it is imperative that you communicate any deficiencies in writing with the Bates Homes Customer Service Representative.

PRE PURCHASE WALKTHROUGH SCHEDULES 1. FRAME WALK

Prior to drywall installation we will schedule a FRAME WALK. This is your opportunity to visually inspect that all of your in-wall options have been installed in the intended locations. Additional charges will be assessed for change requests after drywall installation.

2. PUNCH LIST CLOSING WALKTHROUGH Your Punch List Closing Walkthrough appointment will be scheduled, approximately, 7-14 days before the close of escrow (COE). Our Representative will walk through the home with you and verify that the home has been delivered complete and that any potential “PUNCH LIST” items are identified and documented. Before COE, we will make every effort to address as many of the repair items as possible and will require that you provide a final sign off at an appointment that will be requested as soon as reasonably possible after the repair items are completed.

ITEMS LISTED BELOW MAY BE EASILY DAMAGED DURING YOUR MOVE-IN AND MUST BE NOTED AT THE TIME OF YOUR FINAL WALKTHROUGH INSPECTION. BATES HOMES WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR SUCH ITEMS IF REPORTED AFTER THE FINAL WALKTHROUGH: § Broken and/or scratched windows, glass or mirrors; § Defects in appearance and/or scratches, marring or

dings on appliance finishes; § Stained, scratches, dents, tears, holes, or marred

surfaces on flooring and/or floor coverings; § Defects, damage, chips and/or stains to tile,

countertops, flooring, porcelain, vitreous china, counter, and vanity tops, tubs, sinks, shower units, faucets, shower enclosures and/or toilets;

§ Defects in appearance of Interior or exterior finished surfaces;

§ Discoloration, incorrect/inaccurate color, flawed color, defects, or inconsistencies in color, texture, or sheen of paint and/or stain on cabinets, stair railings, walls or any painted or stained surfaces;

§ Defects or damage to stucco, siding, exterior trim, interior trim, and/or lighting fixtures;

§ Damage to painted surfaces, drywall, stucco, or stone;

§ Damage, scratched and/or dings in doors and/or door trim;

§ Door peep hole damage, location, or otherwise; § Door hardware defects or damage; § Stained and/or chipped concrete and/or pavers;

§ Torn or defective screens and/or shades; § Damage or defects to roofing and/or gutters; § Loose screws, nuts, and bolts; § Fencing any and all damage, defects, discoloration,

gaps, holes, shrinkage, un-level; § Shrinkage or damage caused by shrinkage of

cabinets, doors, fencing, flooring; § Defects, damage, or improper installation of

medicine cabinets and/or owner supplied products; § Nesting bees, insects, animals, or rodents; § Missing items.

Tedra Bates

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HOME CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Failure to perform necessary maintenance may result in damage to your home or the components thereof and will not limit or void your rights under the Bates Homes Limited Warranty.


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HOME CARE AND MAINTENANCE Failure to perform necessary maintenance may result in damage to your home or the components thereof and will limit or void your rights under the Bates Homes Limited Warranty.

AIR-CONDITIONING (See "COOLING & HEATING SYSTEMS”)

APPLIANCES Please read your manufacturer’s manuals for helpful suggestions regarding your features and maintenance. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the main gas valve near the meter and call the gas company.

BATHTUBS, SINK AND SHOWERS Bathtubs, sinks, and showers are made of a variety of materials. Although vitreous china and porcelain enamel on cast iron or steel are among the most common. Other material includes pulverized marble resin for vanity tops and shower bases.

BATH CAULKING Caulking is the responsibility of the Homeowner. If the caulking around your bathtub, shower pan, or sink should appear dried out or cracked remove the old caulking and replace it. Hard scrubbing and abrasive cleaners can damage the caulking. If you do not have a caulking gun, caulking material can be purchased in applicator tubes or in disposable caulking guns. Builder takes no responsibility for caulking or damage to flooring resulting from lack of the maintenance of said caulking or water damage resulting from use of said fixtures.

VITREOUS CHINA AND PORCELAIN ENAMEL The surfaces of these fixtures are smooth and glossy like a mirror and harder than steel, but they are not indestructible. Carelessness causes chipping, scratches, and stains. A blow from a heavy or sharp object will chip the surface and scraping or banging metal utensils in a sink will gradually scratch and dull the surface. Shiny new fixtures can also be dulled or stained within a short time through improper or excessive use of strong abrasive cleaners. Most household cleansers are mild, and used with plenty of water, some of them are not harmful; however, a non-abrasive cleanser is safer. The new aerosol bathroom cleansers are generally non-abrasive. If you prefer a dry material, baking soda and Bon Ami Powder (not Bon Ami cleanser) are non-abrasive. Most stains are caused by dirt, food, grease, rust, or water minerals.

FIBERGLASS TUB/SHOWER UNIT Your bathtub or shower stall is a quality piece of furniture. Given proper care, the smooth, shiny surface will remain beautiful and easy to clean indefinitely. As with any highly polished surface, regular care and no abrasives are the main rules to follow. For most food stains use a mild solution of chlorine bleach (about 3 tablespoons to a quart of water), and rinse well. For stubborn stains, wait 5 minutes before rinsing. (Don't use this for stainless steel). You can also make a paste of equal parts of cream of tartar, 6 percent hydrogen peroxide (used for bleaching hair), and a household cleaner. Leave the paste on the stain for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing it.

GLASS SHOWER ENCLOSURES OR STALLS Your shower doors are shatter resistant glass. To clean glass shower enclosures, an ordinary dishwashing detergent (not soap) or window cleaner will do a good job unless hard water minerals have been deposited. For these, use commercial glass cleaner containing ammonia or a solution of 1 tablespoon of household


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ammonia in a quart of warm water. WARNING: Be sure to read the caution note on the label before using the ammonia. Do not use sharp objects as this will scratch the glass.

NORMAL CLEANING FOR SHOWERS & BATHS For the regular tub or shower cleaning, use a washcloth, warm water and any liquid cleaner or detergent. The new foam bathroom cleaners like that made by Dow also work well with a washcloth. If you clean your tub in this fashion on a regular basis, every week or so, no other maintenance should be needed.

Stainless-steel fixtures generally resist staining, and they need thorough scrubbing only occasionally. Use a non-abrasive cleanser or a commercial stainless-steel cleanser. Plastic and other substances usually will respond to a non-abrasive cleaner, but it is best to check with your plumbing contractor to see what is recommended for the particular material in question. Special commercial cleaners are also available.

CABINETS-STAIR RAILINGS Your cabinets and stair railings are constructed of natural woods and finished with a lacquer finish. Please be aware that because wood is a natural material and because wood grain and wood color are inconsistent and vary from piece to piece, it is impossible to match grain and color. The cabinet finish should be maintained by the Homeowner in the same manner as a fine piece of furniture. Within the first 30 days of owning your new home it is normal that cabinet doors and drawers may require adjustment to ensure they track smoothly as they break in. Please check all of your cabinets and report any issues on your 30-day warranty review. After 30-days these items are considered Homeowner maintenance.

CAULKING Caulk will shrink over time. For re-caulking painted surfaces, use a latex based caulk. For unpainted surfaces, us a silicone-based caulk. You should inspect and maintain both the interior and exterior caulking twice per year.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS The electrical wiring and equipment in your home are protected by circuit breaker. They are the safety valves of your home's electrical system. Circuit breakers may be reset by first switching the breaker to FULL OFF and then back to FULL ON.

ELECTRICAL SERVICE ENTRANCES The electrical service entrance, which provides power to the service panel, has been designed for the electrical needs of the house. Do not tamper with the cable.

MASTER CIRCUIT BREAKERS Every house has a master circuit breaker. It is located in the electrical service panel box. When the master circuit breaker is tripped, the electricity to the house is cut off.

POWER FAILURES In case of complete power failure, first determine if your neighbors have power. If not, notify the power company. If the power failure has occurred only in your house, check master circuit breaker.


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CONCRETE Concrete walls and floors expand with summer heat and contract with winter cold. Expansion and contraction, and natural shrinkage as concrete cures, occasionally cause small cracks to appear. The do not affect the strength of the concrete. No matter how thick the walls, not matter how solid the ground on which the house is built, these cracks will occur. Cracks which are larger than the limited Warranty specifications should be reported to us in accordance with the warranty procedures.

Please be careful with the landscaping around your home. The ground near your foundation tends to settle after construction. If you do not maintain a sloping or positive grading slope away from your home or if downspouts and splash blocks do not direct water away from the foundation, water may drain toward the foundation resulting in a wet basement. Landscaping mulch may hide the ground settlement around your home. Check the grade in this area each time you mulch and maintain at least 6” from the grade to the top of the foundation.

It is impossible to prevent cracking in concrete and, therefore, we do not guarantee the concrete components of the property. We have anticipated stresses on walks, driveways, and steps, and have provided contraction and expansion joints. Unanticipated cracking may result from conditions over which we have no control, such as unequal sub grade settlement, severe frost action and uneven moisture conditions. After our front sidewalks, curbing and streets are approved by the city; any further upkeep and repairs become the city's responsibility.

CONDENSATION (See "WALLS AND CEILINGS")

COOLING AND HEATING SYSTEMS With any heating system, the actual room-to-room temperature will vary as the outside weather conditions change. These are affected by the direction and intensity of sunshine and winds. In severe hot or cold weather, you may have to set the temperature cooler or higher. Read the instruction manual for your cooling and heating system(s) to learn how to operate your thermostat. For immediate emergency service, call the H.V.A.C. contractor or utility company listed on the emergency phone list.

ANNUAL INSPECTION A central heating/air-conditioning system should periodically be checked and cleaned by a professional repairman. See your instruction manual for the frequency of this care. Homeowners with evaporative cooling systems should service them at the start and end of the cooling season.

DAMPERS & REGISTERS The registers throughout your house help to regulate the flow of air and to maintain the desired temperature. By opening and closing the registers, you can determine the amount of cold or warm air that enters a room but can also affect the balancing of the system. Balancing adjustments may not be immediately noticeable, it may take a day to feel the full effect. Sun location and external temperature changes may affect the temperature of various rooms in your home during the course of a day. The system may require balancing at the start of each season as cooling and heating requirements vary.

FILTERS Your central heating/air-conditioning system has an air filter to help keep the air in your home clean. For maximum efficiency, this filter should be periodically replaced. The instruction manual for your heating/cooling system will tell you the location of the filter and how to replace it. Filters should be cleaned and be replaced as required by manufacturer to assure longest life, minimum repairs and lower operating costs. (See also "Heating System"). CAUTION: Do not operate the system without filters. This will void manufacturer’s warranty.


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HOUSE INSULATION Your home has been designed to provide the proper insulation for our climate. Open doors, windows, fireplace flues, and clogged filters are more often the cause of inadequate cooling and/or heating.

THERMOSTATS The thermostat (usually located on an inside wall) helps to keep your house an even temperature throughout. Individual room temperature can be slightly regulated by adjusting the registers in the various rooms. Your home is heated by a warm-air- system. The thermostat also controls converting from the cooling system to the heating system and vice versa.

WINDOW SHADES Shades and/or window coverings should be used to maximize the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

DISPOSALS Your instruction booklet will give you precise directions for operation of the disposal. Many people erroneously conclude that because their waste disposal is capable of grinding up most of their garbage, it is also capable of eliminating grease and other substances that they would not otherwise pour down a drain. In fact, you should be equally careful not to clog drains with grease. When grinding greasy substances, use plenty of cold water. Always use cold water when the disposal is on. Should the drain stop up, do not put chemicals down the disposal. (See also "Drains").

RESET BUTTONS Most disposals have a reset button that works in much the same way as a circuit breaker. Should your disposal become overloaded with a substance it cannot grind, it will turn itself off. If this happens, move the switch to OFF, remove the substance obstructing the disposal's operation, wait about three minutes, and push the reset button (see your instruction booklet for its location) and turn the switch to ON. If it still does not start, turn it off again and check to be sure you have not tripped a circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker has not interrupted the flow of current, trip the circuit breaker and refer to page 10 in the Installation Care and Use Manual for instructions on how to release the jam. Restore current, push the reset button again, and turn the disposal switch to ON. Avoid putting large amounts of fibrous materials (such as flowers or corn husks) down your disposal.

DOORS All doors can cause minor problems, and from time to time some of them do. However, most door problems can be handled with minimum skill.

DOORS – EXTERIOR All exterior doors are affected by the elements, At times, especially after heavy rains, they may not open or close as smoothly as at other times. This is because wood frames absorb moisture and swell. The doors will adjust themselves in the course of a normal drying-out process (refer to “Shrinkage”). If raw wood is exposed due to shrinkage, touch up paint is required and considered Homeowner maintenance item. The frequency of repainting or re-staining is determined by the degree to which the doors are exposed to the elements. Stainable doors- A high-quality, exterior-grade, UV stabilized, clear polyurethane, protective topcoat must be renewed according to the door manufacturer’s recommendations. Contact the manufacturer or refer to the door’s warranty literature for details. Weather-stripping is provided between the door and the frame as needed to keep the cold air out and the heat in. Do not paint weather-stripping or remove any small felt pads which are attached to the doors or door jambs. Weather-stripping may hum in high winds, this is normal.


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Split panels may allow light to be visible from the inside of the house. If light is visible, fill split with colored oil base putty to match closely as possible.

Chips, dents, scratches, knots, and gauges must be identified at or prior to final walkthrough. Areas identified on or before final walkthrough will be repaired. Any item identified after COE or Move In, whichever occurs first, will not be the builder’s responsibility and are considered general ware to be maintained by Homeowner.

BIFOLD DOORS Your bifold closet doors require only occasional waxing of the tracks. Paraffin or similar types of solid wax are recommended. GARAGE DOORS The moving parts of garage doors should be oiled about once every three months. Grease on the rollers/tracks also keeps the door from binding and provides smooth operation. The screws that fasten the hardware to a wooden door should be tightened in about a year because the wood shrinks a little as it ages, and this may leave the screws loose. If your doors are prefinished, routine cleaning is required to maintain appearances. If they are painted metal or wood, they will need periodic refinishing or painting. Adjustments are provided for the rollers to permit a tighter fit of the door against the frame. There is also an adjustment on the lock bar guide if locking the door becomes difficult. Improperly installed garage door openers can damage your garage door system. We will not adjust garage doors once openers have been installed by you. If you have installed an opener and problems have developed with the door, disconnect the opener to see if the door operates properly without the opener. Garage doors should operate properly under normal conditions of use. Garage doors should not rub against the jambs during the swing of the door. Garage doors should be set within manufacturer’s tolerances. Garage doors will leak, light air, dust, and water. SLIDING DOORS Occasional waxing of the tracks with paraffin will keep sliding doors easy to operate. Tracks must be kept free of dirt and grit. STICKING Sticking is the most common problem with doors. If the sticking is caused by swelling in damp weather, fold sandpaper around a wood block and sand the edge that binds. If the sticking is the result of uneven alignment, check to see that the hinge screws are tight and holding properly. If the hinge screws are tight and the door is still out of alignment, sand or plane the edge that binds. Always paint or varnish areas that have been sanded or planed Paint or varnish protects wood from moisture and helps to prevent further door problems. WEATHER STRIPPING The weather stripping on your exterior doors will occasionally require adjusting to maintain a good seal. This can easily be done by firmly running a screwdriver up and down the groove in the weather stripping. A well-sealed door should be somewhat hard to open and close. A slight air crack around the door, however, is normal. A hard wind may cause weather stripping to howl. This can be adjusted as above and unadjusted for very hard winds. SWING DOORS Some homes have raised doors on the front entrances. The panels may dry at different rates causing slight shrinkage. This appears as though the panel is pulling away from the balance of the door. Conditions of this nature can be easily repaired by staining and varnishing the newly exposed wood to match the rest of the door. The structural strength of the door is not impaired in any way by this shrinkage.


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DRAINS Each plumbing fixture in your house has a drain trap, a J-shaped piece of pipe designed to provide a water barrier between your home and the danger of sewer gas. The trap holds water, which prevents the air-borne bacteria and odor of the sewer gas from entering the house. If any fixture is used infrequently, it should be turned on at regular intervals to replace evaporating water and ensure that the barrier remains intact. Traps, because of their shape, are also the point at which drains are most likely to become clogged.

BATHTUBS, SINKS AND SHOWERS When the drain pipe from a tub, sink or shower stops up, first use a plunger. Be sure the rubber cup of the plunger covers the drain opening and that the water comes well up over the cup edge. Working the plunger up and down rhythmically 10 to 20 times in succession will build up pressure in the pipe and do more good than sporadic, separated plunges.

If the plunger doesn't work, try using a plumber's snake. (These can be rented or purchased at a hardware or plumbing store). Be sure to turn the handle of the snake in the same direction when removing it as you did in inserting it. This will keep any matter attached to the snake from coming loose before it is removed.

If the drain can be partially opened with the plunger or snake, hot water may finish the job. If not, you can open the trap under the fixture. Put a bucket or pan under it to catch the water in it. A piece of wire may help to dislodge the blockage. The snake can also be run in at this point. Although it is sold commercially as drain cleaner, you should refrain from using drain cleaner. Potash lye or caustic potash may be added to finish opening a drain, but never use them on a completely stopped up drain. They may take as long as overnight to work, could damage the plumbing finish, and if you have to open the trap the chemicals would be a hazard. WARNING: Because potash lye and caustic are highly corrosive, always pour them slowly into the drain to prevent spattering. Never pour water into the chemicals. Wear old clothes, rubber gloves, and goggles or safety glasses. Never use a plunger on a drain after chemicals have been added. The water may splash and cause an injury or damage to nearby surfaces.

TOILETS Treatment of a stopped-up toilet is the same and a plunger will usually get the job done. The trap is built into the toilet and is therefore less accessible. Instead of a snake, you use a coil spring-steel auger. (It can be bought or rented from a hardware or plumbing store). Insert the auger so that the point goes up into the trap. Turning the handle of the auger will break up the blockage or catch it so that it can be removed. Reduce the amount of toilet paper used prior to flushing and never flush anything than proper waste and toilet paper down the toilet.

PREVENTION To avoid stopped up drains, a cardinal rule is never to pour grease into a drain or toilet and eliminate long hair from entering the trap. Ordinary washing soda (not baking soda) added to a drain on a regular basis will help to keep it clear of grease from soap and cooling utensils, run hot water through the drain, turn off the water, add 3 tablespoons of washing soda, and follow it with just enough hot water to wash it down the drain opening. Let it set for 15 minutes and run more hot water. (See also "Plumbing", "Toilets", "Bathtubs, Sinks and Showers").

DRIVEWAYS. WALK AND STEPS Your home's design has anticipated stresses on concrete driveways, walks and has provided contraction and expansion joints to minimize cracking; however, cracking is one of the characteristics of concrete and no method of entirely eliminating cracks in it are known.


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Do not permit heavy trucks, loaded or unloaded, inside the curb line of your property. They may seriously damage your concrete, paver, and asphalt surfaces.

Damage called “scrubbing” may occur to your asphalt driveway by turning your front wheels while your vehicle is not moving. Avoid turning the wheels of your car while it is stopped as the resulting damage is not warrantable.

ELECTRICAL Before reporting an electrical problem, check the following as it may save you a minimum service charge.

ALL PLUGS AND SWITCHES Those in kitchen, baths, washer/dryer location and outside weatherproof plugs should be grounded. Certain appliances must be grounded to avoid shocks.

BASE PLUGS If inoperative, check wall switch or circuit breakers. Some wall plugs are operated by a wall switches in the room.

EXHAUST FANS Backdraft damper mechanism within unit is sometimes heard when bath door is opened and closed. This is caused by the air pressure raising and dropping the metal flap. The above items constitute the majority of requests for service. We want to correct any electrical malfunction which is our responsibility, but we must charge for unnecessary calls and those not our responsibility.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS All should be at ON position. Sometimes a tripped breaker has moved slightly from the normal position, but a closer examination will show that the tripped breaker has moved slightly from the normal position. If breaker has released, reset by flipping to full OFF, then back to ON. If breaker continues to release, check cause, overload on circuit, short in appliance, etc. We label the panel box to denote the circuits controlled by each breaker. Repeated tripping is an indication of a short in the affected circuit. Forcing or holding a circuit breaker in its operating position may result in extensive damage to the circuit or to the appliances involved or may even result in fire. Depending upon the jurisdiction, your home may have AFCI-Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters which are a type of circuit breaker that trips if it detects sparking. AFCI are designed to protect your home from fires caused by arching as well as over current conditions whereas normal breakers are only effective against over current conditions. AFCI breakers are more sensitive than normal breakers and you may notice that they trip easier and more often than standard breakers. Some circuits in your kitchen, bath, basement, and garage are equipped with a ground fault interrupter (GFI). If power in your circuit is lost in these areas, push the reset button located on the outlet controlling the circuit. Not every outlet on a GFI circuit has a reset button.

FLUORESCENT TUBES Slight buzzing noise in the fixture is normal, tubes will start to flicker as the age and need to be replaced.


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GARBAGE DISPOSAL Inoperative? Check the reset button on the unit under the sink. (see Garbage Disposal)

LIGHT BULBS Have they burned out? If so, make sure to replace them with bulbs of the same wattage as originally installed because this is the size for which the fixture was

made.

POWER TO APPLIANCE If an appliance has power to it but does not function, the trouble will be within the appliance and not with the house power. See appliance manufacturer

manual.

SMOKE DETECTOR For your family’s protection an electric smoke detector is installed in each home. See manufacturer’s instructions attached to the smoke detector. It is

recommended that you read and understand these instructions and also review the family escape plan provided.

RECEPTACLES The wiring in your new home meets the code of requirements and safety standards for the normal use of electrical appliances. Ordinarily, small appliances -

which require your personal attendance for their operation - may be plugged into any electrical receptacle without fear of overloading a circuit. However, the

use of larger appliances on the same circuit may cause an overload of the circuit and trip a circuit breaker or a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). GFCI

receptacles are located in all kitchens, baths, laundry, garage and outdoor areas. GFCI breakers have reset buttons directly on the receptacle. GFCI outlets are

often linked to multiple receptacles within the same area, however, occasionally a GFCI receptacle may be linked with another receptacle in a separate room.

In time you will become familiar with the location of all your GFCI receptacles. If you have a receptacle that isn’t working in one of these areas check GFCI and

push the reset button.

FAUCETS Faucets, like all plumbing with moving parts, are more apt to require repair than non-moving fixtures.

AERATORS Cleaning the aerators will be your most frequent task in maintaining your faucets. This attachment to the faucet proper adds air to the water as it leaves the

faucet, reduces splashing, and provides some savings because less water is used. To clean an aerator, unscrew it from the mouth of the faucet, remove any

debris, remove and rinse the washers and screens, replace them in their original order, and put the aerator back on the faucet. Frequency of cleaning will

depend on the condition of the water, but generally every three or four months is more than adequate.

SHOWER HEADS Surface of head shall be cleaned periodically to remove water stains and mineral build-up. Occasionally head will need to be removed to clean out the filter

washer in the stem of the head.

LEAKING Leaking faucets generally can be fixed by replacing the faucet's washer or washers. (Some new single controls for hot and cold water have no washers, but

their cartridges, which last longer, must still be changed). Before attempting to repair a faucet, however, be sure to turn off the water at the front yard cut-off

valve. Washers may be obtained at most hardware stores.


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FIREPLACES Refer to fireplace owner’s manual for care and maintenance. Builder is not responsible for damage to televisions mounted above fireplaces. Homeowner is responsible for maintaining flues. It is recommended to have a licensed chimney sweep clean and inspect your flue on an annual basis. For gas fireplaces, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation For wood burning fireplaces, start fires slowly. Do not create a fast, hot fire, as it may cause cracking. Remember to open the damper and outside air intake. High winds can cause temporary negative drafts. When it is windy, you may have to postpone building a fire. You may be able to help get a draft started by cracking open a window. Trees can interfere with air currents to your chimney. Ensure that your chimney is free of debris and nearby trees. Due to the “stack draft: effect of a chimney, even fireless fireplaces draw air out of your home. Close the fireplace damper when the fire is not in operation. Heat from fires may alter finishes on the fireplace unit and surrounding finishes. These are normal and should be expected. Newly built chimneys often incur slight amounts of separation, which should not exceed ½”-inch in any 10-foot measurement from the main surface.

FLOORING CARPET Your carpet needs regular care to prolong its useful life. The following instructions will help you keep it looking fresh and clean; however, situations may arise in which you will want to contact a professional cleaner for advice.

CARPET CLEANING Your entire carpet should be given a thorough vacuuming at least once a week. It is recommended that the vacuum cleaner be equipped with a brush or beater bar, which is properly adjusted for the height and type of carpet. Vacuuming will remove some loose fibers from the carpet yarns. It may also lift an occasional tuft (sprout) above the surface. When this occurs, the tuft should be snipped with scissors to the length of the other tuft. Do not pull the tuft out. When your carpet becomes dull due to soil, cleaning by a professional establishment is recommended. Cleaning companies are listed in the yellow pages of the telephone directory. When accidents or spills occur, immediate action will usually prevent permanent staining. Spot removal kits with instructions can be purchased in many stores. Carpets sometimes change in hue and appear discolored. Oily film from cooking and heating can settle on carpet fibers and make them “dull”. Professional cleaning will usually return your carpets to their original brilliance. Many carpet and furniture fibers shrink when they get wet. Do not expect the exact original dimension after cleaning. Most professional cleaners will “slow-dry” to reduce shrinkage.

BERBER CARPET Berber carpet is commonly described as a loop pile carpet. Loop pile carpet is constructed by attaching both ends of yarn to the backing. Because of this tight loop it is more difficult to install than conventional carpets. Seams will be evident with this type of carpet, there is a tendency for it to ‘’smile’’ or open up on stairs and it tends to ‘’sprout’’ meaning one end of the yarn becomes detached from the backing. This type of carpet is not warranted for visual seams, sprouting, gapping or voids. It is the Homeowner responsibility to trim sprouts or pulled loops. These are characteristics of this type of carpet.


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GENERAL CARPET CARE INFORMATION Your carpet should be protected from direct sunlight. Even the most colorfast dyes may fade under continuous exposure to direct sun. All cut pile carpet, in time, will develop the condition called shading. Shading is the lighter and darker areas, which develop on the surface of the carpet. Shading is due to light reflection and pile lay and is a characteristic of all cut pile carpets and not a defect.

RESILIENT FLOORS Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the care of your resilient floors to keep them looking their best. Do not scrub or use abrasive cleaners as this may scratch the floors. Use the product that is made for the particular floor; for instance, vinyl dressing for vinyl floors; asphalt tile wax for asphalt tile. Do not flood the floors with water or cleaning solutions. Resilient floors will dent from heavy furniture with pointed feet or from spike heels. You can protect the floor from the furniture by using furniture cups under the feet.

WOOD OR LAMINATE FLOORS Wood is a natural product that requires special maintenance by the Homeowner. It has a tendency to scratch, dent and gouge depending on a particular wood’s durability. Wood is particularly susceptible to water, even small amounts from spills or moisture form dishwashers can cause damage. Cleaning with any amounts of water or a steamer is not recommended. Special products may be needed depending on your product. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for their care to keep them looking their best. Do not slide or move heavy objects across the floor without protecting the surface of it. There may be a certain amount of shrinkage. This is in no way affects their durability.

Because of the inherent characteristics of wood, it can expand and contract with the change in warm and cold weather and changes in humidity. This may result in gapping between planks. Each piece of wood has its own grain, pattern and color that can vary from plank to plank. This can cause variations in the appearance of the finish on individual boards. Also, in our dry climate checking or small cracks may appear. These are natural characteristics and the warranty cannot cover variations in grain or color patterns within planks.

Laminate flooring is a manufactured product made to look like wood. Laminate may require special maintenance. These types of floors are resistant, but not impervious to scratches, dents or gouges. They are susceptible to water and special cleaning products may be needed depending on the product.

TILE There is a wide range of tile available. Variations in shade, sheen, shape and even surface texture occur during the production of these materials. The material you select may vary slightly from what you saw in the design center.

The layouts are determined by the tile setter at the time of installation and are governed by the size and shape of the materials and the dimensions of the areas to be covered. Tight grout joints are never recommended for floors as the grout does not tend to hold up to the wear and tear placed on floors.

NATURAL STONE Natural stone is a product of nature. No two pieces are exactly alike. Natural stone products have a variation in color, flow, tone, spotting, veining, shade and texture and some natural stone products, especially granite, may have areas which appear dull or smudged. These characteristics may be considered imperfections, but in actuality are part of a natural product. Because natural stone is ever changing it is impossible to pre-determine the exact stone product that will be installed into your home. This variation of characteristics makes each piece unique and interesting.


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Some of these products require a stone sealant and use of special cleaning products. If you have opted to use natural stone products in your home, we highly recommend that you consult with an expert in this field to determine the best products to maintain your particular type of stone.

Stones such as slate may have a tendency to flake or chip. Your warranty will not cover this since it is a natural characteristic of the product. There is no guarantee to ensure a consistent pattern when installing your stone product. These products are natural, there will be variation from one piece to another. These variations are characteristics of the product and will not be covered by warranty. Buyer acknowledges that there are no builder warranties on any natural stone products.

GROUT All colored grouts are discouraged because of the inability to touch up and match colors after general use. Maintenance of grout becomes the responsibility of the Homeowner upon COE. A simple and effective method to help keep your grout looking like new is to seal the grout. Grout sealer can be purchased at most home improvement stores or at a local tile shop.

FLOOR SQUEAKS Extensive research and writing on the subject conclude that much has been tried but little can be done to eliminate floor squeaks. Generally, these squeaks will appear and disappear with changes in the weather.

FOUNDATIONS Some soils are highly expansive and may rise and fall vertically up to 6" from dry condition to moisture-saturated condition. It is important to maintain uniform moisture conditions in the soil around your home. If this is not done, one portion of your foundation will move more vertically than other portions. The foundation will bend under such conditions. This does not damage the foundation, but the walls of brick and Sheetrock will not bend with the foundation. Brick and Sheetrock will show cracks under these conditions. To prevent and minimize this, we recommend as follows: When completed, the earth around the outside of your home is graded so that it slopes away from the foundation providing positive water drainage away from the foundation. Often swales (drainage ditches) are provided to make certain water drains away from your home and off of your lot to either street or alley. These swales are often filled in by Homeowner’s inadvertently or become filled by soil erosion or grass sodding. It is your responsibility to maintain and keep positive drainage of water away from foundation and not allow pooling of water on your lot. Failure to do this will cause unequal expansion of soil around foundation and brick or Sheetrock cracks will occur.

Customers sometimes create unequal soil moisture conditions around the foundations by creating water traps. This can be done by concrete walks, borders, brick planter borders, metal flower bed edging's, all of which may create a water dam a short distance from foundation. Such items, when used, should take into consideration the necessity of water draining positively away from the house. In drought conditions large cracks occur in the yard soil. This is contraction caused by lack of moisture. The soil beneath your foundation is protected from sunrays and retains its moisture. As a consequence, there is a tendency for the soil under the house to remain at a constant height relative to the foundation and the soil on the exterior of the home to fall slightly. It is important to water evenly, and not to excess, around your entire foundation to minimize the soil contraction and consequent foundation movement. This watering should be every three to five days rather than very heavy watering for longer periods.


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If brick or Sheetrock cracks occur, first study your lawn drainage for the cause and solution.

The solution is to correct the lawn drainage problem and then allow three to six months before repairing cracks. The reason for this is that most cracks will become

smaller after soil moisture equalizes itself from proper drainage conditions. If brick cracks occur, we do not recommend patching them for the patch is almost always

more unsightly than the crack, due to the color mismatch or mortar.

Sheet rock cracks may be filled and repainted. Patching plaster or textured material is readily available from paint stores and fairly simple to use.

GRADING Your house lot and surrounding lot grades were established by professional engineers to provide positive drainage away from the building in all directions. Should you

wish to change the drainage pattern, be sure that a proper drainage slope is maintained. DO NOT fill above the top of the foundation and always allow a 8-inch minimum

between the soil and siding.

As the earth around your home becomes compact and sinks, depressions may appear, particularly where there had been a trench near the foundation of the home. A

positive grading slope away from the home must be maintained at all times to prevent the collection of water against the foundation which may cause dampness or

water in the home. As you make alterations to your landscaping, make sure the finish grade slopes away from the foundation.

Necessary grades and drainage swales shall be established to ensure proper drainage away from the home. Site drainage is limited to the immediate grades and swales

affecting the structure. Standing or ponding water should not remain for extended periods in the immediate area of the house after a rain. Fine soils will take longer for

draining than granulated soils. The possibility of standing water in the swales after heavy rain should be anticipated by the Homeowner. No grading determination shall

be made while the ground is saturated. The builder is responsible only for establishing the proper grades and swales. The owner is responsible for maintaining such grades and swales once they have been properly established by the builder. Bates homes will not assume any responsibility for damage to houses or lots which results from alteration of the original grading or inadequate lot maintenance. If you plan to make changes to the grading of your lot, you should consult with a

professional landscape architect and/or civil engineer to ensure that proper drainage is maintained.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS Many homeowners will wish to add home improvements after closing. Many improvements to the interior or exterior or to the property will require approval from your

Community Association or municipality. Refer to the deed restrictions, HOA documents, your city and /or county municipality, and the fence, pool, and tennis court

policy guidelines.

LANDSCAPING CARE Maintaining proper grades and swales are the Homeowner’s responsibility upon close of escrow. Be sure to repair any washouts as soon as possible to minimize erosion.

After the builder installs healthy sod, shrub and trees. Homeowner shall maintain irrigation system and plants. Builder cannot warrant living organisms as we have no

control of maintenance, care, or weather conditions. Effective the date of your home closing, your landscaping will be turned over to you for continued maintenance.

We highly suggest you contact a landscape specialist for more specific recommendations. The Landscape Architect suggests the following maintenance schedule or as

your landscape maintenance contractor suggests:

Water your lawn twice to three times daily initially. Continue for three weeks until the lawn is finely rooted. After establishment (3-4 weeks), your watering can be cut

back to every other day for lawns and every third day for shrubs. This will vary somewhat due to weather and soil type.

Do not walk on the lawn for the first two weeks to avoid root compaction


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Mow your lawn weekly, starting two weeks after the lawn was installed. Mow your lawn high (2") initially and never lower than (1"). Fertilize your lawn monthly initially with a good lawn fertilizer and then every 2-3 months as required to maintain green, lush growth. Shrubs should be watered according to the schedule above and fertilized with a good all - purpose fertilizer every three to four months to maintain the proper environment for growth. Prune shrubs to contain errant growth and maintain form. Hedging or close clipping of shrubs is not recommended. Check the operation of your irrigation system regularly. Initially, nozzles can get plugged with latent debris in the lines. They can be cleaned by unscrewing the nozzle (after pulling up the pop-up riser) and blowing out or tapping the nozzle on a hard surface. Do not forget to clean out the screen below the nozzle. During this cleaning, do not let go of the spring-loaded riser. It is hard to pull up without the nozzle attached. Until the homes on either side of you are completed, refrain from any planting within five feet of the property line. Often the establishment of adjoining lawns will require minor work on the property line to properly establish the grading in the area. This will allow us to better grade and drain adjoining properties, as well as your own. Prior to winter, have your irrigation system properly shut off and drained to prevent pipes and valves from freezing.

MASONRY You may notice what appears to be a series of mortarless joints toward the bottom of the brickwork and above doors and windows. These weep holes allow any moisture that penetrates the brick to pass outside. Do not point or fill these holes or bury them with landscaping. Brick is porous and absorbs water. If you have chosen a particularly porous brick or if your brick faces the prevailing winds, you can have a contractor apply a silicone sealer to reduce water penetration. Cracks can develop in the mortar which is normal due to shrinkage. Small cracks in veneer walls up to 1/4" inch are common in mortar joints and brick, and do not necessarily indicate a deficiency. Efflorescence is a white, powdery substance which sometimes appears on the surface of brick, masonry (bricks, blocks, stone, concrete) and roof tiles. It is caused by minerals leaching from the masonry due to the absorption and evaporation of moisture. It is not a defect in the brick or masonry. Because it is a natural attribute of masonry products, it is not a warrantable condition.

MILDEW Mildew or fungus will form on a painted surface if the structure is subject to abnormal exposure. Mildew or fungus formation is a condition the builder cannot control and is a Homeowner maintenance item.

MOLDINGS (See "TRIMMINGS AND MOLDINGS")

PAINT - EXTERIOR Checking, splits, cracks, and peeling are common items due to causes other than the paint or its application (e.g., allowing sprinklers to hit painted areas will greatly reduce the life expectancy of the area involved). Annual exterior maintenance is required to preserve your home’s exterior finish. Please refer to your limited warranty for specific information on warrantability.


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PAINT - INTERIOR The interior walls and ceilings of your new home have been decorated with latex paint. They should give you long service if properly cared for. Do not wax painted walls. Consult your paint and wallpaper dealer for the correct cleaning compound for painted surfaces and wallpaper. He also can assist you in choosing from hundreds of possible paint colors and wallpaper patterns when you wish to redecorate or make color changes.

PLUMBING Your plumbing has been installed by a professional and generally should need only minimum maintenance for many years if you care for it properly. If any problems do arise, tend to it promptly to prevent a bigger, and often more costly problem from developing. Broken water lines do to freezing or abuse are not covered under warranty. During periods of freezing weather be sure to keep your home thermostat at level that will prevent pipes from freezing. If you are in an area that experiences temperatures below freezing, you must winterize all exterior hose bibs and irrigation systems to prevent frozen water lines. Never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool when cleaning your plumbing faucets as they may scratch the finish. Never throw non-disposable items in your toilet. This will cause stoppage. Plumbing stoppages and faucet leaks are covered in the 30-day limited warranty. Any plumbing stoppages and faucet leaks that occur after the 30-days of ownership are considered Homeowner maintenance.

LEAKS PEX and copper were used on your home and should last the lifetime of the house. If your washing machine, dishwasher, or other water-using appliances appears to leak, check first to be sure that the trap through which it drains is completely open. Sometimes a partially clogged drain can cause overflow within the appliance. (See “DRAINS”) Your plumbing is warranted against leaks except (warn washers, cartridges, or misuse) by the 30-day warranty. Condensation from pipes should not be confused with leaks. During humid periods some condensation is normal. In the event of a plumbing leak, immediately turn off the main water supply until the leak can be repaired.

PLUMBING FIXTURES TO PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR PLUMBING FIXTURES, FOLLOW THESE PRECAUTIONS:

1. Don't let food wastes stand in the sink. If you have a disposal, dispose of food waste as it accumulates. If you do not have a disposal, put the waste in an appropriate container.

2. Don't use plumbing fixtures to hold paint cans, trash, or tools when you are redecorating, and cover them when painting walls and ceilings.

3. Don't step in a bathtub with shoes on for any reason. Shoe soles carry hundreds of gritty particles that will scratch the surface.

4. Don't use plumbing fixtures as receptacles for photographic or developing solutions. Developed stains are extremely difficult to remove. By observing these suggestions, and preceding cleaning instruction, your fixtures will retain their newness and luster for many years, but remember that once a fixture has been damaged, the best plumber in town cannot restore it completely. (Also see "Drains," "Faucets," and Plumbing").


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5. Plumbing fixtures and finishes should stay looking new with minimum care. Never use polish, detergent, cleansers, abrasives or cloths with abrasive surfaces. The use of such items, other than a soft damp cloth will nullify the manufacturer’s warranty.

ROOF Your roof will give you many years of good service if it is properly maintained. Flashing seals places where the roof abuts walls, chimneys or valleys, where two roof slopes meet. If a leak should occur, call a qualified roofer to make the repair: if it is repaired as soon as the roofing material has dried, the cost will be far less than if the job is postponed. If you have to walk on your roof for any reason, be careful not to damage the surface of the flashing or tile. Be particularly careful when installing a TV or radio aerial: a careless job can cause serious leaks. When cleaning windows it is recommended to have a professional with experience working on tile roofs.

SHRINKAGE Being a natural material, wood will shrink; baseboards, wood moldings and trim sometimes work out of position, doors may shift out of alignment, wood simultaneously exposed to changes in temperature and moisture (as in instance of outside door frames) tends to twist or pull in cold or wet weather. Normal shrinkage can be minimized by maintaining an even interior temperature and humidity during the first year and by avoiding overheating of your home in winter. The appearance of drywall seams or the drawing or protruding of drywall nails is due to shrinkage.

TOILETS Never flush grease, lint, hair, diapers, rubbish, etc., down the toilet drain. Such waste stops up the toilets and sanitary sewer lines. (For unclogging a stopped-up toilet, see "DRAINS")

CLEANING A variety of commercial cleaners are made especially for the toilet. Use them according to the manufacturer’s directions, but do not mix them or use them with household bleach or any cleaning product. Never use them in anything but the toilet.

LEAKS If the water chamber appears to leak, it may only be condensation forming on the outside of the tank and dripping to the floor. If water leaks, it may only be condensation forming on the outside of the tank and dripping to the floor. If water leaks into the bowl through the overflow pipe, try bending the rod holding the float so that the float will be closer to the bottom of the tank. Flush the toilet and it still leaks, the inlet valve washer probably needs to be replaced. If the water trickles into the bowl but is not coming through the overflow pipe, it is coming through the flush ball valve. The rods between the ball valve and the flushing handle may need aligning, so that the ball will drop straight down after the handle had been pushed. A worn ball valve or dirt or rust on the ball or the ball seat will let water leak through into the bowl. If the ball or seat is dirty or rusty, clean. If the ball is worn, unscrew it and replace it with a new one.

WALLS AND CEILINGS The interior walls of your new home are constructed of gypsum wallboard and they should last, without undue maintenance, for the life of the building. In unusual cases, such as extreme shrinking in framing boards, minor cracks may appear. No repairs should be attempted until the room is ready to be redecorated. At that time, fill the cracks with spackling compound (available from any paint store), smooth it out with fine sandpaper, and then redecorate the entire surface. Sometimes normal shrinking will cause nail pops. The lumber and the wallboard shrink away from the nail and leave it sticking us beyond the surface of the wallboard. Popped nails do not alter the strength of the wall, and they should be left alone until time to redecorate. Then they should be reset, re-spackled, and repainted with the rest of the wall.


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Unusual abrasions may scuff or indent the surface of gypsum walls. In that event, fill the indentation with two or three applications of joint cement used for dry wall taping.

CONDENSATION Condensation takes place wherever warm, moist air inside the house comes in contact with a colder surface such as windows. Ventilation helps eliminate condensation, so do not obstruct openings such as attic louvers. Condensation is at its maximum in new homes. When your home was built, many gallons of water went into materials such as concrete, wallpaper paste, tile work, and even some type of paint. This water comes out of the house by evaporation, which consequently develops higher moisture content then normal. You must see that ventilation is provided whenever possible to bring this normal drying-out process to its conclusion as steadily as possible. This is especially important due to the tight energy efficient construction trapping inside air unless you take action to allow ventilation. Do not try to aid the drying-out process by creating extremely high temperatures during winter. It will tend to create uneven drying which will adversely affect normal shrinkage.

WALLPAPER The interior walls and ceilings of your new home have been decorated with latex paint. They should give you long service if properly cared for. Do not wax painted walls. Consult your paint and wallpaper dealer for the correct cleaning compound for painted surfaces and wallpaper. He also can assist you in choosing from hundreds of possible paint colors and wallpaper patterns when you wish to redecorate or make color changes.


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INDEX HOME CARE AND MAINTENANCE .................................................................. 1

AIR-CONDITIONING ......................................................................................... 1 APPLIANCES .................................................................................................... 1 BATHTUBS, SINK AND SHOWERS ..................................................................... 1 CABINETS-STAIR RAILINGS .............................................................................. 2 CAULKING ........................................................................................................ 2 CIRCUIT BREAKERS .......................................................................................... 2 CONCRETE ....................................................................................................... 3 CONDENSATION .............................................................................................. 3 COOLING AND HEATING SYSTEMS .................................................................. 3 DISPOSALS ....................................................................................................... 4 DOORS ............................................................................................................. 4

DOORS – EXTERIOR ..................................................................................... 4 BIFOLD DOORS ............................................................................................ 5 GARAGE DOORS .......................................................................................... 5 SLIDING DOORS ........................................................................................... 5 STICKING ..................................................................................................... 5 WEATHER STRIPPING .................................................................................. 5 SWING DOORS ............................................................................................ 5

DRAINS ............................................................................................................ 6 DRIVEWAYS. WALK AND STEPS ....................................................................... 6 ELECTRICAL ..................................................................................................... 7 FAUCETS .......................................................................................................... 8 FIREPLACES ..................................................................................................... 9 FLOORING ....................................................................................................... 9

CARPET ........................................................................................................ 9 RESILIENT FLOORS ..................................................................................... 10 WOOD OR LAMINATE FLOORS .................................................................. 10 TILE ............................................................................................................ 10 NATURAL STONE ....................................................................................... 10 GROUT ....................................................................................................... 11

FOUNDATIONS .............................................................................................. 11

GRADING ....................................................................................................... 12 HOME IMPROVEMENTS ................................................................................ 12 LANDSCAPING CARE ...................................................................................... 12 MASONRY ..................................................................................................... 13 MILDEW ........................................................................................................ 13 MOLDINGS .................................................................................................... 13 PAINT - EXTERIOR .......................................................................................... 13 PAINT - INTERIOR .......................................................................................... 14 PLUMBING .................................................................................................... 14 PLUMBING FIXTURES .................................................................................... 14 ROOF ............................................................................................................. 15 SHRINKAGE ................................................................................................... 15 TOILETS ......................................................................................................... 15 WALLS AND CEILINGS .................................................................................... 15 WALLPAPER .................................................................................................. 16

[WARRANTY_Rev03.21.2020v2]

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NEW HOMEOWNER WARRANTY POLICY


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YOUR NEW HOMEOWNER WARRANTY POLICY Congratulations on the purchase of your new home. Bates Homes is proud to provide you with a one-year limited warranty for your new home. As with any newly constructed product using natural materials, your home may need adjustments in accordance with your limited warranty coverage. This warranty specifies limits for responsibility and standards of performance under which it is valid or applicable. Following these procedures will expedite service and increase your satisfaction. For the purposes of this warranty, “home” means your single-family residence and “you,” “your” and “Homeowner” means the owner(s) of the home and their respective heirs, executors, administrators and assigns. WE STRONGLY URGE YOU TO READ AND FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THIS WARRANTY. Bates Homes, LLC, hereinafter referred to as Bates Homes, warrants that your home will meet the Warranty Standards of Performance described herein below, subject to the following provisions:

§ The 1-year warranty period begins the date upon which both the original purchaser’s closing of title and the completion of the written punch list have been completed.

§ All warranty requests must be Bates Homes’ made, in writing, during the warranty periods specified herein. This warranty, designed to protect the Homeowner from the possibility of faulty construction or defective materials, does not cover defects caused by normal wear and tear, Homeowner neglect, or by acts of God or natural disasters beyond the control of Bates Homes, as more particularly set forth herein. Nor will Bates Homes have responsibility for secondary damage caused by any warranted defect, except as expressly stated in this limited warranty. The failure of the Homeowner to perform the required maintenance on your home will limit or void your rights under this warranty. Nothing contained in this warranty shall make Bates Homes an insurer of the personal property of the Homeowner or of any third party. Under no circumstance do the provisions of this warranty limit the State statutes for latent and/or structural defects. This warranty is applicable to all items mentioned herein only if the noted defects are reported in writing to Bates Homes’ Warranty Department before the end of the warranty period. Only our Warranty Department Staff are authorized to accept warranty claims, direct the administration of warranty procedures, and provide judgement on warrantable and non-warrantable items covered by this Bates Homes warranty. Only an authorized employee of Bates Homes can sign a written statement extending the warranty period. Our sales staff is neither qualified nor permitted to accept claims or make judgement regarding warranty service. No other action on the part of Bates Homes or its employees or agents, including any steps taken to correct defects, shall be deemed an extension of the warranty period. Bates Homes also reserves the right to choose materials and methods used to make repairs. Bates Homes cautions Homeowners from having any item covered in this warranty altered by any person or persons other than Bates Homes, it’s employees and agents. Any item so altered will be excluded from warranty coverage and Bates Homes will not be responsible for costs and/or work, corrective or otherwise, performed by others.


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HOMEOWNER MAINTENANCE OBLIGATION All homes require regular maintenance to prevent premature deterioration and water intrusion and to ensure that the home’s systems perform properly. Bates Homes will provide you with a Home Care Guide that provides recommendations for maintenance of your Home. You are required to care for and perform regular maintenance on your Home in accordance with the Home care Guide and to perform any other maintenance that a reasonable Homeowner (or Association, as the case may be) should perform in the region where your Home is located.

MANUFACTURERS’ WARRANTIES Many of the products in your home, including appliances, flooring, plumbing, and electrical finishes, etc. are not covered by this warranty, but rather are covered by separate warranties provided directly to the Homeowner from the manufacturer. The Homeowner should make any warranty claims relating to such appliances and equipment directly to the manufacturer. These may have been provided to you with the appliance or may be available through the manufacturer’s website or toll-free warranty service number often found on the item’s label. If there is a conflict between the information in this guide and the manufacturer’s instructions, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The Homeowner must register each appliance with the manufacturer. Please refer to the Appliance Registration cards made part of this package.

EMERGENCIES At closing a list of contractors was provided to you. In the case of an actual emergency, phone the appropriate contractor. Emergencies such as, plumbing leak, gas leak, roof leak, total electrical failure, heating or air conditioning failure are to be addressed immediately and can lead to serious damage to property and persons if not addressed safely and in a timely manner. If the warranty is due to a warrantable condition, notify your warranty-department as soon as practical.


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REQUESTING WARRANTY SERVICE

In an effort to minimize disturbance to our Homeowners, we have implemented a program in which you will have the opportunity to schedule service repairs at pre-determined time intervals of 30-days and 11-months for non-emergency warranty items. Please follow the process as described below.

30 - DAY WARRANTY

During the first 30-days of homeownership, take note and develop a list of minor omissions, malfunctions or discrepancies in your home. Repairs of the below nature reported to us after 30-days into the Warranty Period will be considered Homeowner maintenance and are such not covered by warranty.

• Adjusting stacking doors, cabinets drawers and doors. • Plumbing stoppages and/or faucet leaks.

• Caulking. • Carpet wrinkles and seam separation.

11-MONTH

You may choose to submit a second Warranty Request with any new items at the 11-month time prior to the end of your 1-year warranty. If you choose to do so, we will repeat the warranty process one final time.

ALL OTHER WARRANTY SERVICE REQUESTS

If you believe that a component of your Home is not meeting the Standards of Performance during the applicable Warranty Period, you may make a warranty request (the “Warranty Request”) in writing by sending an email to [email protected]. You should expect a response confirming receipt of your Warranty Request within 48 hours. Providing notice orally in person or by telephone does not constitute a Warranty Request. Upon receipt, a Warranty Manager will review your request and determine if your items fall under the Warranty and will work with you and trade partners to complete necessary warrantable work. You must notify us of any requested warranty items as soon as possible after the date on which you first observed the condition for which you seek warranty coverage, but in no event later than thirty (30) days after you become or should have become aware of such condition. If we receive your warranty request after the expiration of the warranty period, regardless of when you become aware of the condition, we will have no obligations under this warranty. In the event that you fail to notify us and give us the opportunity to inspect and repair the conditions giving rise to your warranty request, we will not be responsible for any repairs or any other costs or expenses (including, without limitation, home inspector, consultant or contractor fees) that you incur to address the claim. Each Warranty Request will require your cooperation, including without limitation, allowing inspection of and access to the home. By submitting a Warranty Request, you agree to provide us and our representatives complete access to your home within ten (10) days after submittal of the warranty request, during the normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (not including holidays) to inspect, conduct tests and repair as we deem necessary. You agree to cooperate with us and any third parties acting on our behalf in the inspection, testing, monitoring, repairing, replacing, or otherwise addressing your warranty request. If you are unable or unwilling to allow such timely access to your home and/or fail to cooperate in our attempts to address the warranty request, such

warranty request shall be deemed waived by Homeowner(s), will be closed, and we will be excused from our obligations with respect to such warranty request.

Please note, a Homeowner or Designated Representative must be available to meet with Field Representatives and allow Trade Partners entry to your home to complete work. We cannot accept oral request for non-emergency warranty service. Submit warranty claims on in an email to [email protected]. Putting your request in writing ensures that there will be accurate documentation.


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WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED BY THE WARRANTY In addition to other limitations and exclusions set forth in this Warranty and the accompanying Standards of Performance, the Warranty does not provide coverage for the following items, which are specified excluded:

1) Homeowner failure to properly maintain the Home or the failure of any prior owner of the Home (other than Bates Homes) to properly maintain the Home by performing regular care and maintenance of the Home.

2) Normal wear and tear or normal deterioration. 3) Any deviation from the Warranty Standards of Performance caused by, or

resulting from, materials or work supplied by someone other than Bates Homes, its agents, or subcontractors.

4) Loss of or damage to any property, fixture, structure, or improvement that is not part of the Home or was not constructed by Bates Homes. Homeowner shall be responsible for paying any costs required to remove

such property, fixtures, structure, or improvement if Bates Homes deems it reasonably necessary to address a Warranty Request.

5) Loss or damage caused by a failure by Homeowner or any prior owner of the Home (other than Bates Homes) to take timely action to mitigate a condition that you are aware of or should be aware of.

6) Damage to personal property. 7) Dampness or condensation due to the failure to maintain adequate

ventilation or appropriate temperate. 8) Economic damages due to the Home’s failure to meet your expectations. 9) Any non-conformity with local building codes, regulations, or

requirements and any deviation from plans and specifications where the condition does not result in a deviation from the Standard of Performance and actual physical damage to the Home.

10) Any failure by Bates Homes to complete any component of the Home when such failure is apparent and obvious.

11) Any claim for which Bates homes has obtained a release. 12) Any damages to, or resulting from, a swimming pool that is located either

within or outside the Home as a result of its construction, placement, use, equipment, or maintenance.

13) Sound transmission and sound proofing between rooms and floor levels within a single-family home or within a unit in a multi-family building.

14) Any exclusions set forth in the Standards of Performance. 15) Loss or damage caused or made worse by:

a) Failure to maintain proper temperature (heating & cooling) and humidity within the Home.

b) Installation or alteration of improvements by anyone other than Bates Homes, its agents, or its subcontractors, that results in improper drainage that permits water to pond or become trapped in localized areas or against the foundation of the Home.

c) Negligence, misuse, abuse, improper maintenance, or intentional or improper operation by anyone other than Bates Homes, its agents, or subcontractors.

d) Abnormal loading of structural elements by anyone other than Bates homes, its agents or its subcontractors that exceed deign loads as mandated by applicable building codes.

e) Failure of anyone other than Bates Homes, its agents, or subcontractors to comply with the manufacturers’ warranty requirements for appliances, equipment, or fixtures.

f) Changes to the grading of the ground by anyone other than Bates Homes, its agents, or subcontractors.

g) Failure to give timely notice within 30-days of observing the issue, sooner for emergency issues or issues related to functionality, to Bates homes of deviations from the Standard Performance under the Warranty.

h) Failure to take timely and reasonable steps to protect and minimize damage resulting from a deviation from the Standards of Performance.

i) Damage caused by force majeure events, including but not limited to Acts of God, riot or civil commotion, war, vandalism, hurricane, tornado, windstorm, wind driven rain or water, extreme wind, explosion, power surges or failures, blasting, smoke, water escape, tidal wave, over-flow of body of water, flood, water that backs up from sewers or drains, hail, snow, ice storm, lightning, falling trees, or other objects, aircrafts, vehicles, landslide, mudslide, avalanche, earthquake, or volcanic eruptions.

j) Abuse of your Home. k) Microorganisms, fungus, decay, wet rot, dry rot, soft rot, rotting of

any kind, moisture, mold mildew, vermin, termites, insects, rodents, birds, wild or domestic animals, plants, corrosion, rust, naturally-occurring gases (such as radon and methane), radiation, formaldehyde, asbestos, any solids, liquid or gaseous pollutant, contaminant, toxin, irritant, or carcinogenic substances, whether organic or inorganic, and electromagnetic field or emission, including


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any claim of health risk or uninhabitability based on any of the foregoing.

l) Cost or expenses resulting from the direction of any governmental entity to test, clean up, remove, treat, contain or monitor pollutants.

m) Buried debris, underground springs of other water, sinkholes, mineshafts or other subsurface anomalies, not known or reasonably discoverable by Bates Homes at the time of construction.

n) Changes in the level of the underground water table or water below the surface of the ground that were not reasonably foreseeable at the time the Home was constructed.

o) Except as provided in the Standard of Performance, defects in recreational facilities, driveways, walkways, sidewalks, concrete steps, patios, porches and stoops not structurally attached to the Home, decks and balconies that are not bolted to or cantilevered from the main structure of the Home, boundary and retaining walls, bulkheads, fences, landscaping, sodding, seeding, shrubs, trees, plantings, subsurface drainage systems (other than footer drains), lawn sprinkler systems, off-site improvements (including streets, sidewalks, and adjacent properties), or any other improvements that are not part of the Home.

p) Defects in detached garages or outbuildings (except those that contain plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, or ventilation systems that serve the Home and then only to the extent that the defect would affect these systems). A detached garage is one that is constructed on its own foundation, separate and apart from the foundation of the Home. A breezeway, fence, utility line, or similar union shall not cause a garage or outbuilding to be considered attached.

q) Except as provided by the Standards of Performance, any portion of a water supply system, private or public, including volume and pressure of water flow.

r) Except as provided in the Standard of Performance, any portion of a sewage disposal system, public or private, including the design.

s) Malfunction of equipment or lines of the utility companies, including but not limited to telephone, gas, power, or water companies.

16) Landscaping- Grass, trees and shrubs are living items. Bates Homes cannot control the watering, fertilizing and weather conditions after you move in. Therefore, Bates Homes accepts no responsibility for these items.

17) Sprinkler heads, irrigation lines and valves damaged by freeze, abuse or negligence.

18) Re-caulking or replacement of caulking both inside and outside do to shrinkage around doors, windows, moldings, tubs, showers, etc.

19) Fencing, holes, gaps, discoloration, missing fencing, and/or shrinkage. 20) Replacement of heating and air conditioning filters, battery replacement

in components of your home, light bulbs, any Homeowner maintenance items.

21) Broken or damaged water lines due to weather conditions e.g. freezing, or through abuse.

22) Upgrades for which the Homeowner has selected directly with the supplier such as flooring, tile, security system, etc. The subcontractors warranty covers these items and they should be contacted directly.

23) Warranties on manufactured products such as light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, windows, etc., which are not part of the structural component of the home are made solely by the manufacturers, suppliers and/or contractors providing same, and cover only the products referred to therein. Bates Homes does not make or adopt any such warranty and does not have any obligation or liability under such warranty.

24) General Warranty items such as appliances, water heater, furnaces etc., carry manufacturer warranties for a specific period of time. All warranty cards must be filled out and returned to the manufacturer when required. Service calls should be directly to the manufacturers company.

25) Garage floors are not warranted against moisture coming through the surface.

26) Any deviation from the Warranty Standards caused by, or resulting from, materials or work provided by someone other than Bates Homes or its subcontractors.

27) Broken and/or scratched windows, glass or mirrors; 28) Defects in appearance and/or scratches, marring or dings on appliance

finishes; 29) Stained, scratches, dents, tears, holes, or marred surfaces on flooring

and/or floor coverings; 30) Defects, damage, chips and/or stains to tile, countertops, flooring,

porcelain, vitreous china, counter, and vanity tops, tubs, sinks, shower units, faucets, shower enclosures and/or toilets;

31) Defects in appearance of Interior or exterior finished surfaces; 32) Discoloration, incorrect/inaccurate color, flawed color, defects, or

inconsistencies in color, texture, or sheen of paint and/or stain on cabinets, stair railings, walls or any painted or stained surfaces;

33) Defects or damage to stucco, siding, exterior trim, interior trim, and/or lighting fixtures; Damage to painted surfaces & drywall.


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THE BATES HOMES EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY Under the Warranty, Bates Homes warrants that your Home will meet the Standards of Performance set forth in this Warranty. Certain components of your Home are covered for either 30-days or 1-year as indicated in the Standards of Performance (the “Warranty Period”). Bates Homes’ obligations are expressly limited to the Standards of Performance and the Warranty Periods. This Warranty is the sole and exclusive warranty provided to you by Bates Homes and constitutes the exclusive remedy with respect to all claims by you against Bates Homes. You specifically wave the right to seek damages or to assert any claims against Bates Homes, except as may be provided in this Warranty.

DISCRETION TO REPAIR OR MAKE PAYMENT Bates Homes shall repair any item that does not meet a Standard of Performance or Bates Homes may elect at its sole discretion to (1) pay you the reasonable cost for Bates homes to perform the repair, or (2) pay you the diminution in fair market value of the Home caused by the failure to meet the Standard of Performance. In lieu of making a repair, Bates Homes may elect at its sole discretion to replace the warranted item. References to “repair” in this Warranty are intended to include “replacement” where Bates Homes elects to replace a warranted item rather than repair it.

COST OF TEMPORARY HOUSING If your Home becomes temporarily uninhabitable due to a condition that is covered by the Warranty or due to work that is necessary to repair a condition that is covered by the Warranty, Bates Homes will reimburse you for the reasonable cost of temporary hotel accommodations for the period of time during which you cannot reasonably reside in the Home. The cost of temporary hotel accommodations must be pre-approved by Bates Homes or you will waive the ability to recover these costs from Bates Homes. You must also provide proof of payment for all costs in order to receive reimbursement from Bates Homes.

POST REPAIR CONDITION OF HOME If an item covered under the Warranty deviates from the Standards of Performance, Bates Homes may repair it to conform to the Standards of Performance. In the case of structural elements that deviate from the Standard of Performance, Bates Homes may repair the structural element to restore the element’s load-bearing function, as designed, and make other repairs necessary to return the Home to a safe condition. Repairs undertaken pursuant to the Warranty are intended to restore the Home to approximately the same condition as existed prior to the Warranty Request, but not a new condition. If Bates Homes repairs surfaces, finishes, or coverings, then Bates homes will attempt to achieve as close a match with original surrounding areas as is reasonably possible, but Bates Homes cannot guarantee and does not warrant an exact match. Bates Homes will only repair those surfaces, finishes, and coverings that: (1) are actually damaged as a result of a deviation from the Standards of Performance (or damaged in the course of repairing conditions that deviate from the Standards of Performance) and (2) were part of the Home when title was first transferred by Bates Homes. Bates Homes will repair such surfaces, finishes, and coverings that are damaged as a result of a deviation from the Standards of Performance, or, alternatively, at Bates Homes’ sole option, Bates Homes will pay you the fair market value of such item or property at the time the damage occurred. You acknowledge that you accept the risk of damage to your personal property or surfaces, finishes, coverings or other components added to the Home by you and that you will take measures you deem appropriate to mitigate that risk, either through insurance or otherwise.

RELEASE Upon completion of repairs to a warranted item or upon payment to you in lieu of repairs pursuant to this Warranty, you agree to sign a full release of Bates Homes’ obligation for the deviation from the Standard of Performance and any related damage. Unless otherwise agreed to by you, the release shall apply only to the claim that is resolved by the repair or payment (as the case may be) and does not prevent you from making a Warranty Request for any other deviation from the Standard of Performance for other claims during the Warranty Periods.


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NO VOLUNTARY PAYMENTS You agree not to make any voluntary payments, assume any obligations, or incur any expenses to address a condition that you believe constitutes a deviation from a Standard of Performance without prior written approval from Bates Homes. Bates Homes will not reimburse you for repairs that you make or pay for without first (1) notifying Bates Homes of the problem, (2) allowing Bates Homes to investigate and repair it as required by this Warranty, and (3) obtaining Bates Homes’ prior written approval.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION Any and all disputes between the Homeowner(s) and Bates Homes shall be resolved in accordance with the binding arbitration provisions set forth in Section 11 of the purchase agreement executed by the original purchaser of the home (the “Purchase Agreement”), the provisions of which are incorporated herein by this reference (the “Dispute Resolution Procedure”), and shall bind such initial Homeowner(s) and all subsequent Homeowner(s). Before filing a request for mediation or arbitration under such Dispute Resolution Procedure, you must first submit a warranty request pursuant to the terms and conditions of this warranty. If you are not satisfied with Bates Homes’ response to your warranty request, you may then proceed with the Dispute Resolution Procedure.

TRANSFER TO SUBSEQUENT HOMEOWNER(S) If ownership of the home is transferred during the warranty period, all of your rights and obligations under this warranty, including without limitation, the foregoing Dispute Resolution Procedure provisions, shall, unless they have been previously released by you or your successor, transfer to each successor owner of the home for the remainder of the applicable warranty period. In the event of such transfer, you are responsible for giving this warranty, the Homeowner Manual and all disclosures attached to the Purchase Agreement to the subsequent owner as part of the contract of sale of the home. Any transfer of this warranty shall not affect, increase or reduce the coverage provided hereunder.

LIMITATIONS OF LIABILTY EXCEPT AS PROHIBITED BY LAW, HOMEOWNER(S) ACCEPT(S) THIS WARRANTY AS A MODIFICATION OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF QUALITY, AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, WHICH, ANY OTHER PROVISION HEREIN NOTWITHSTANDING, ARE DISCLAIMED AND EXCLUDED BY SELLER TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW. THIS DISCLAIMER AND EXCLUSION INCLUDES ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY RELATED TO MOLD, AS SET OUT MORE FULLY IN THE MOLD DISCLOSURE/WAIVER AGREEMENT ATTACHED TO THE PURCHASE AGREEMENT SIGNED AND AGREED TO BY THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER OF THE HOME, THE PROVISIONS OF WHICH ARE INCORPOARTED HEREIN BY THIS REFERENCE AND SHALL BIND THE INITIAL HOMEOWNER(S) AND ALL SUBSEQUENT HOMEOWNERS.

THIS MEANS THAT THIS WARRANTY IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY THAT APPLIES TO AND GOVERNS YOUR AND BATES HOMES’ RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS RELATED TO THE HOME AND MEANS THAT THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES EXCEPT AS REQUIRED BY LAW. EACH HOMEOWNER WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO RECOVER ACTUAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES SUFFERED AS A RESULT OF ANY DEFECTIVE MATERIALS OR WORKMANSHIP WHETHER BASED UPON BREACH OF CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY IN TORT OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY, AND WHETHER BATES HOMES’ OR ITS SUBCONTRACTORS OR EMPLOYEES HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE OR LOSS. TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ALL CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY RELATING TO MOLD, MILDEW, FUNGUS, DEAY, ROT OR OTHER MICROORGANISMS ARE HEREBY WAIVED.

IF ANY PROVISION OF THIS WARRANTY IS DETERMINED TO BE UNENFORCEABLE UNDER APPLICABLE LAW, SUCH DETERMINATION SHALL NOT AFFECT THE VALIDITY OF THE REMAINING PROVISIONS OF THE WARRANTY.


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STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE Your home was built to the requirements of the building codes of the prevailing local jurisdiction where your home is located. In the case of items where no codes exist, the provisions of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Minimum Property Standards prevail. The following are Homeowner guidelines for care and building standards are expressed in terms of maximum tolerances permissible.

APPLIANCES All appliance warranties go directly from the Homeowner to the appliance manufacturer. Please refer to the manufacturer’s warranty.

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Appliance deficiencies and defects. None.

Appliances are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Builder is not responsible for appliance warranties, repair, or registration.

The Homeowner must register each appliance with the manufacturer.

CABINETS CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Warped or shrinkage in cabinets. 1-Year Warranty.

Builder shall doors and drawers that are warped more than ¼”. This condition is measured by closing the drawer or door and measuring from the face frame to the point of furthermost warpage. Builder is not responsible for exact matching cabinet finishes, color or stain.

Keep consistent humidity and temperature in your home. Prevent cabinet water exposure

Cabinet drawers and doors not working properly

30-Day Warranty. Builder shall adjust cabinet drawers and doors if reported within the 30-Day Warranty Period.

After the first 30-days of ownership, cabinet adjustments are Homeowner maintenance.

Split in cabinet panels and gaps between the cabinets or between the cabinets, ceiling, or walls.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall correct any gaps greater than ¼” wide unless due to overloading cabinets or misuse.

Do not overload cabinets.

Variation and/or fading of cabinet paint, stain, sheen, or finishes.

None. This is normal due to the nature of wood. Exact stain, sheen, cannot be guaranteed and is not covered by this Warranty.

Protect finishes through shading of windows and conditioning of woodwork.

Scratches, dents, dings, damage in cabinet or hardware.

None. These items are not covered under this Warranty. Please report these to the Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough.

Homeowner should carefully handle and maintain cabinets.

CARPET CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Non-uniformity of color, spots, fading, or discoloration

None. Cosmetic defects are not covered under this warranty. Please report these to the Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough.

Carpet seams visible None. Carpet seams will show, this is not a warrantable item.

To prevent further issue, open seams should be repaired promptly.

Carpet seams separating, wrinkles carpet, stretched carpet.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair any openings or gaps in the seams if due to regular wear and tear, not Homeowner misuse.

Carpet that becomes loose or wrinkled from use should be re-stretched and secured to prevent from wear and creasing damage.


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CARPET - Continued Wall-to-wall carpet coming up, loose, or stretched.

1 Year-Warranty (One-Time-Only). If builder originally installed wall-to-wall carpeting as a primary floor covering, Builder will re-attach or re-stretch any of the carpeting that has loosened from the material to which it was attached on-time in the first year starting after closing or move-in, whichever occurs first.

Wet carpet. None. Unless caused by something that is the Builder’s responsibility such as roof leak.

It is the Homeowner’s responsibility to carefully pull the wet carpet loose from the tack strip and turn back to dry. If Homeowner does not pull carpet back to dry and carpet rots or becomes mildewed, replacement of damaged carpet becomes Homeowner’s responsibility.

CERAMIC TILE *Builder will not be responsible for discontinued tile or grout colors or patters. *Builder will not be responsible to match the tile pattern or color between the old and new tile and grout.

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Chipped or cracked floor, counter or wall tile.

None. Builder shall replace any cracked tiles and re-secure any loose tiles noted prior to closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first. Builder is not responsible for discontinued patterns or color variations in ceramic tile and is responsible for replacement of defective tile only.

Cracks in grouting of ceramic tile joints are commonly due to normal shrinkage or settling caused by climate and temperature change. Minor hairline cracking is acceptable and considered a Homeowner maintenance item

Cracks in grouting of ceramic tile joints and junctions with other material such as a bathtub or stone slabs to tile.

None. These are not covered in this Warranty. Cracks at the joints of tile are commonly due to normal temperature changes.

Please report these to the Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough. Re-grouting or caulking of these cracks are Homeowner maintenance.

Loose floor, counter, or wall tile. 1-Year-Warranty (One-Time-Only). Builder will re-secure loose tiles one-time-only during the Warranty Period.

Re-grout cracks during the lifetime of the home.

CONCRETE CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Damage to curbs, sidewalks, roadways.

None. Curbs, sidewalks, and roadways are the responsibility of the HOA or municipality and are not covered by this Warranty.

Cracks in concrete slab-on-grade floors under finished flooring.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair cracks which rupture the finished flooring materials so the cracks are not readily apparent when the finished flooring material is in place.

Cracks in slab in garage. 1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair cracks exceeding Cracks 1/4" wide or 1/4” in vertical displacement.

Black marks on pavers, driveways, garage floor, curbs, or walks.

None. Damage called “scrubbing” may occur to your asphalt driveway by turning your front wheels while your vehicle is not moving.

Avoid turning the wheels of your car while it is stopped as the resulting damage is not warrantable.


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CONCRETE - Continued Pitting, scaling, or spalling of concrete.

1-Year Warranty. It is normal for some minor chipping of the surface to occur. Concrete surfaces should not disintegrate so that the aggregate is exposed and loosened under normal use and weather conditions. Builder shall repair concrete surfaces due to construction defects. Builder is not responsible for deterioration caused by salt, chemicals, mechanical implements, or other factors beyond our control.

Avoid damaging concrete with salt, chemicals, mechanical equipment, etc. Do not permit heavy trucks, loaded or unloaded, inside the curb line of your property. They may seriously damage your concrete, paver, and asphalt surfaces.

Uneven concrete floor or slab. 1-Year Warranty. Concrete floor in rooms designed for habitability (as living space) will not have pits, depressions, or raised surfaces greater than ¼” in 30”. Builder shall repair cracks exceeding maximum tolerance.

Cracks in basement floor. 1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair cracks exceeding Cracks 3/8" wide or 3/8” in vertical displacement.

Cracks in basement walls. 1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair cracks exceeding 1/8” wide.

Cracking, settling or heaving of exterior concrete slabs, stoops or steps, garage floors.

1-Year Warranty. Stoops, steps, or garage floors will not settle more than 1” from the Home. We will correct these deficiencies.

Water not draining from outdoor concrete work and only standing water exceeding 1/2 “inch after a period of dry weather should be considered an item to be reviewed. Standing water on stoops.

1-Year Warranty. However, it is normal for small amounts of water to stand on stoop for short periods after rain or watering. The Builder shall take corrective action to assure proper drainage of stoops and steps, patios, driveways, and sidewalks, where improper drainage is reported and not caused by Homeowner landscaping.

Settling, heaving, or separation of stoops, steps, or garage floors.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair stoops, steps, or garage floors with notice settle, heave, or separation more than 1” from Home.

CONDENSATION LINES CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Condensation lines can clog under normal use

None. These items are not covered under this Warranty.

This is considered a Homeowner maintenance item.


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DOORS & WINDOWS CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Air leak in and around doors and windows.

(See “Weather Stripping”)

Broken, scratched or damaged glass on doors and windows.

None. These items are not covered under this Warranty.

Please report these to the Builder for repair prior to closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Door & windows paint or stain fading or chipping.


A high-quality, exterior-grade, UV stabilized, clear polyurethane, protective topcoat must be renewed according to the door manufacturer’s recommendations. Contact the manufacturer or refer to the door’s warranty literature for details.

Chips, dents, scratches, knots, and gauges.


Any item identified after COE or Move In, whichever occurs first, will not be the builder’s responsibility and are considered general ware to be maintained by Homeowner.

Panel in doors shrink do that raw wood edges show.

None. It is normal for panels to shrink. No repair needed.

Split panel may allow light to be visible from the inside of the house.

30-Day Warranty. Builder shall fill split with colored putty and match color if reported within the first 3-days. Color match not guaranteed. We will make this repair only once after closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

After 30-days this is considered Homeowner maintenance.

Hardware failure to lock or operate properly on doors and windows.

30-Day Warranty. Builder shall repair any hardware which does not meet manufacturer’s standards within the Warranty Period.

With proper use and care locks and latches should last you several years. Do not slam doors or windows. Do not try to close or lock doors and windows when the lock or latch are turned to the LOCK position.

Air leaks in and around doors and windows.

1-Year Warranty. Doors and windows will be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s standards. If air comes in because doors, windows, or weather-stripping were fitted poorly, Builder will repair the improperly fitted doors, windows, or weather-stripping.

If you live in an area with high wind or extreme weather, you may wish to install storm doors and windows.

Water penetration of doors and windows.

1-Year Warranty. Unless directly attributed to faulty installation, window and door leaks are a result of conditions beyond the Builder’s control. No corrective action is required. Windows will allow wind and rain to enter when extreme conditions occur. Water penetration caused by sprinklers, water hose, or wind driven rain, is not Builder’s responsibility.

Maintain weather-stripping and seals. Ensure all doors and windows are closed and secured. Do spray or direct water at doors and windows.


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DOORS & WINDOWS - Continued Windows do not function properly. Sticking windows.

30-Day Warranty. Builder will correct the windows so that they are relatively easy to operate within the 30-days Warranty Period.

Apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the tracks to easy operation. Check that window coverings or owner installed painting is not causing an obstruction. Keep tracks clean and clear of debris. Do not slide or slam windows unevenly or with great force. This may cause windows & sliding doors to pop off their tracks or become uneven and is not a builder defect but Homeowner care and use.

Condensation on interior or exterior of windows.

None. Condensation may occur on the interior window surfaces with extreme in temperatures and humidity. Individual humidity habits can impact humidity levels. These conditions are beyond Builder’s control and are not Builder’s responsibility.

If humidifier is installed, Homeowner must follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper setting of the humidifier.

Condensation between window panel.

1-Year-Warranty. Windows should not allow condensation between panels. Condensation on windows is perfectly normal due to temperature changes. Builder will replace or repair windows that have condensation occurring between window panels.

DOORS - EXTERIOR Outside doors warped 1-Year Warranty.

Builder shall repair any doors that warp to the extent that they satisfy one of the following:

1. They no longer work; 2. They are no longer weather resistant; or 3. They warp more than ¼”, measured diagonally from corner to

corner. Builder shall refinish any new doors to match other doors as closely as possible. Color match is not guaranteed.

Homeowner responsible for door maintenance and care. Preventing excessive water exposure. Touch-up paint as needed to protect and prevent against moisture.

DOORS - INTERIOR Inside doors or closet doors warped 1-Year Warranty.

Interior doors should not warp to exceed 3/8’’ for an 8’ tall door and ¼’’ for a 6’-8’’ tall door. Builder will repair as needed. In the event Builder installs a new door, Builder will finish new doors to match other doors as closely as possible but cannot guarantee an exact color match.

DOORS-SCREENS Screen doors fall off the track when in use.


Homeowner to maintain & repairs screen doors.


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DOORS-SLIDING Sliding doors do not operate properly.

1-Year Warranty. Sliding doors will be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s cleaned specifications. Builder will repair and adjust inoperative sliding doors, this does not cover damage to the glass pain of the door, failure to clean and lubricate track, or damage to track from improper use.

Clean and lubricate the tracks for the sliding door. Do not abuse, force, kick, or damage the track or kick the door off track. This will void your warranty.

DOORS – BIFOLD Doors are installed to remain on track.

30-Day Warranty. Builder shall repair doors falling off tracks within first 30-days of warranty.

It is the Homeowner’s responsibility to take care when using bifold doors. After 30-days, it is the Homeowner’s responsibility to reinstall or repair doors.

DOORS – GARAGE DOORS Garage Doors do not operate properly.

1-Year Warranty. If garage doors do not operate properly under normal use, Builder shall adjust or correct them. If Homeowner installs a garage door opener, Builder is no longer responsible for the operation of the garage door and his will void your warranty on all garage door claims.

Keep all parts lubricated.

Rain or snow leaks through garage door.

1-Year Warranty. Garage doors will be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. Builder will repair leaks resulting from a failure to properly install the garage doors. During severe weather conditions, some leakage may be normal.

ELECTRICAL CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Switches, fixtures and outlets do not operate as intended.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair and replace inoperative items at Walkthrough. Homeowner responsibility after the COE.

Light bulbs, broken fixtures, switches and/or outlet covers are the

Electrical fuses blow or circuit breakers “kick-out”.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall check wiring for conformity with local state electrical code requirements. Repair wiring if it does not conform to code.

Do not overload circuits. Prior to sending in a service request, check that all circuit breakers and GFI outlets have been reset and in on position.

Air leaks around electrical outlets. 1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). Cold air can be drawn through an outlet on an exterior wall into a room. Builder will repair on a one-time basis after closing.

Fluorescent tubes buzzing. None. These items are not covered under this Warranty.

Slight buzzing noise in the fixture is normal, tubes will start to flicker as the age and need to be replaced. Homeowner should replace tubes.

Ground Fault Interrupters (GFI) frequently trip.

1-Year-Warranty. GFI’s are sensitive and can be easily tripped. Normally, this is not indicative of a construction defect. Builder will install ground fault interrupters to meet the electrical requirements. Builder will correct the interrupters if the tripping is due to a defect in installation.

A tripped GFI usually indicates an overloaded circuit or the connected appliance contains a faulty ground.


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ELECTRICAL

Electrical wiring does not carry designated load.

1-Year-Warranty. Builder will repair any wiring that does not conform with approved local electrical requirements. Builder is responsible for original installation only. Builder is not responsible for problems caused by conditions beyond our control.

EXTERIOR CAULKING

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY

Joints and cracks in exterior wall surfaces and around openings should be properly constructed and caulked to exclude the entry of water.

30-Day Warranty. Builder shall caulk joints or cracks in exterior wall surfaces when reported within the 30 days Warranty Period.

Caulking will shrink and is the Homeowner’s maintenance responsibility.

FINISH CARPENTRY – EXTERIOR


Open cracks in excess of 3/8”. 1-Year Warranty. Builder to correct or repair open cracks in excess of 3/8” unless due to neglect. Homeowners responsible for maintenance of exterior maintenance.

FINISH CARPENTRY – INTERIOR


Trim/molding has open joints between moldings and the surface area to which the moldings are attached in excess of 3/16”.

1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). Builder will repair any open joints that are more than 3/16” wide, one-time-only after closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first. Caulking is acceptable.

Visual gaps, dings, or gouges in doors, trim, or cabinetry.

None. Builder will repair if these items are noted at the Final Walkthrough. After Final Walkthrough or Close of Escrow, these items become Homeowner’s responsibility.

Homeowner maintenance and repair.

FINISHES


COUNTERTOPS

Separation from wall. 1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). Builder shall repair the crack one-time-only after closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first. Caulking is acceptable.

Do not put excessive weight or force on countertops. Do not stand on countertops.

Laminate countertops delaminating.

None. Builder will repair or replace if discovered before closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Repair or replace laminate countertops with chips or cracks in the deck joint greater than 1/16” or warpage over 3/8” in 48”.


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MARBLE & STONE PRODUCTS

Blemishes, scratches, stains, nicks,

or chips.

None.

Builder will repair blemishes, stains, scratches, nicks, or chips reported to

Builder prior to closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Report to builder prior to closing or at first

occupancy, whichever occurs first.

FIREPLACES


A properly designed and

constructed fireplace and chimney

should function properly.

It is normal to expect the high

winds or atmospheric pressure

causes temporary negative draft

situations.

1-Year Warranty. Determine the cause of malfunction and correct as

required if the problem is one of design or construction of the fireplace.

Some houses may need to have a window opened

slightly to create an effective draft, if they have

been insulated and weatherproofed to meet high

energy conservation criteria.

Keep chimney clear of branches and debris.

Newly built chimneys often incur

slight amounts of separation, which

should not exceed 1⁄2 inch in any

10-foot measurement from the

main structure.

1-Year Warranty. Builder to determine the cause of separation and correct

as required. Caulking is acceptable.

Changes in finish. None.

The heat from a fire can naturally change any finish on the firebox. This

condition is not covered.

Cracks in firebrick (brick that lines

the fireplace) and mortar joints.

None.

Roaring fires can naturally cause this cracking. This condition is not a

deficiency.

Masonry fireplaces should repel

rain under normal conditions.

Excessive rain will cause some

leaking. Fire box should receive a

fire during excessive rain periods to

dry out the masonry.

1-Year Warranty. Fix the leaks if they occur during normal rainfall. When

contending with the finished surface of materials that need repair or

replacement, the builder will try to match the material, color and texture as

closely as possible but does not claim to repair or replace of any exactness.

FLASHING & SHEETMETAL


Leaks in flashing, valleys, and

gutters.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall repair leak. Homeowner’s should keep such areas free of

leaves and debris that could cause overflow to

prevent leaks. If discovered, homeowners should

repair leaks immediately to prevent damage to

other parts of their home.


16

FLOORS- WOOD, TILE, RESILIENT *Builder is not responsible for matching old and new flooring and/or grout color.


Squeaking floors

None.

Extensive research and writing on the subject conclude that much has been tried but little can be done to eliminate floor squeaks.

Generally, these squeaks will appear and disappear with changes in the weather. A squeak proof floor cannot be guaranteed.

Scratches, dents, damage. None.

These items are not covered under this Warranty due to their regular use and abuse.

Please report these to the Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough before closing.

Cuts and gouges. None.

Builder has no responsibility to repair cuts and gouges after closing or first occupancy, whichever comes first. Builder will repair

cuts and gouges noted on Final Walkthrough prior to closing or first occupancy, whichever comes first.

Flooring out of level. 1-Year Warranty. Builder shall correct or repair flooring out of level by ½”

within any 32” measurement.

Cracks between wood floorboards. 1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). Shrinkage is normal. Builder will repair

cracks that are greater than 3/16” wide one-time-only during Warranty

Period.

Visible seams and shrinkage or gaps

at joint of resilient flooring.

Laminate plank, Vinyl Plank,

shrinkage.

1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). It is natural for wood and wood-products

to shrink. If gaps are more than 1/8”, Builder will offer a one-time-only re-

racking of resilient flooring during the Warranty Period and repair affected

areas only. Exact color match not guaranteed.

Depressions or ridges in resilient

flooring due to subfloor irregularity.

1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). Builder shall take corrective action, as

necessary, to repair any ridges or depressions which are readily apparent

and which are more than 1/8” high or deep, one-time-only after closing or

first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Resilient flooring lifting, bubbling or

unglued at joints.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall take corrective action, to repair, re-lay or

replace resilient flooring lifting, bubbling or ungluing at joints. Builder is not

responsible for color mismatch or Homeowner replaced floor.

Nail pops on surface of resilient

flooring.

1-Year Warranty. Builder shall correct any nail pops that break the surface of

the flooring.

Gaps in resilient tile joints. 1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). Builder shall take action to correct gaps in

excess of 1/16” in width in resilient tile joints. Gaps greater than 1/8” where

dissimilar materials abut will be repaired or replaced.

Tile requires cleaning from Mastic

on surface.

30-Day Warranty. If reported to Builder Warranty within 30-days of first

occupancy or closing, whichever occurs first, Builder will clean the tiles with

Mastic on them.

Homeowner responsible for cleaning if out of

warranty period.


17

GRADING CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Settling of ground next to foundation walls, utility trenches or other filled areas shall not interfere with water drainage away from the house.

1-Year Warranty (One Time in One Year). Upon request by the buyer, the builder shall fill settled areas one-time-only during the warranty period. When the fill is placed on the lot, the owner shall be responsible for affected grass, shrubs or other landscaping.

Should an adjustment be necessary by the builder, the Homeowner shall be responsible for all landscaping and structures affected by the placement of the fill.

Improper drainage of the site. 1-Year Warranty. Establish the proper grades and swales (sloped low areas) for water to properly drain away from the Home. Where lot lines permit, the protective slope will be 6 inches in 10 feet around the foundation. Water will not stand or pond in crawl spaces. Water will not stand or pond within 10 feet of the home for extended periods after a rain (usually not more than 24 hours). For swales which drain other areas or where sump pumps discharge; a longer time is not unusual (48 hours). It is normal for water to stand after a heavy rainfall. Bates Homes will not make grading or ponding determinations while there is frost or snow on the ground, or while the ground is saturated or frozen. Bates Homes is not responsible for correcting grades altered by Homeowner after close of escrow.

Maintain the grades and swales after they have been properly established by Bates Homes. Make sure established drainage patterns are not impeded by landscaping, decking, patios, pools, driveways, walls, etc. which you install. Do not change the grade of the soil away from the foundation by building planters, raised beds, or other blocking construction. Damage caused by changes in drainage and grading is not covered. Where a sump pit has been installed but the sump pump was not contracted for or installed by the Builder, Homeowner must first install a properly sized pump to determine whether this will correct the condition.

GUTTERS CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Gutters overflowing, damaged, not working, blocked, hanging off home, fallen off home.

None. Review gutters carefully at Final Walkthrough. These items are not covered under this Warranty. Please report these to the Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough.

Keep the gutters and downspouts clean and unobstructed by tree limbs, leaves, snow, ice, balls, trash, etc. Clogged gutters and leaders can lead to leaks caused by ice damaging which is not warrantable. During heavy rains, overflow should be expected. Gutters are not covered under this warranty.

Standing water in gutters. 30-Day Warranty. It is common practice to install gutters approximately level, resulting in small amounts of water standing in gutter. If water is in excess of 1” after rain, Builder will repair within the 30-Day Warranty Period.

Standing water in excess of 1” should be looked into for maintenance. Keep leaves and debris out of gutters to allow water to flow properly.

Leaks in gutters. None. Gutters and downspouts may overflow in heavy rains.

Do not lean ladders against gutters and downspouts. Keep leaves and debris out of gutters to allow water to flow properly.


18

HVAC-HEATING & COOLING CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Inadequate heating. 1-Year Warranty.

Heating system is designed to maintain an indoor temperature of 70°F. The temperature is measured in the center of each room at a height of 5 feet above the floor (under local outdoor winter design conditions as specified in the ASHRAE handbook). Federal, state, or local energy requirements take precedence. Builder will repair the heating system so that it provides the required temperature.

Balance dampers and registers and make other minor adjustment for change of seasons. Maintain unit per manufacturer’s specifications.

Inadequate air conditioning. 1-Year Warranty. Cooling system is designed to maintain an indoor temperature of 78o F. The temperature is measured in the center of each room at a height of 5 feet above the floor (under local out-door summer design conditions as specified in ASHRAE handbook). If the temperature outside is above 95o F, cooling system must be able to maintain an inside temperature that is 15o below the outside temperature. Federal, state, or local energy requirements take precedence. Builder will repair the cooling system so that it provides the required temperature. System failure should not be considered an emergency unless outside air temperature is predicted to be above 95 degrees.

Balance dampers and registers and make other minor adjustment for change of seasons. Maintain proper window treatments to optimize cooling capabilities. Maintain unit per manufacturer’s specifications.

Cracking or popping noises coming from registers.

None. This is commonly caused from expansion and contraction of the metal inside the registers do to temperature changes. Rooms will vary in temperature by 5 or 6 degrees. This is acceptable under industry standards.

Leak in refrigerant lines. 1-Year Warranty. Builder will repair leaking refrigerant lines and recharge the unit. Unless Homeowner caused the damage.

Clogged condensation drain lines. None. Builder will provide clear condensation drain lines at closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first. After this, Homeowner is responsible for keeping the condensation drain lines clear.

Condensation drain lines may clog, under normal use. Homeowner should keep these clear. Prior to using the cooling system each season, check condensation lines to ensure the drain lines are clear.

Ductwork makes ticking and cracking noises.

None. Ductwork may make ticking or cracking noises when the metal in it expands or contracts from heating or cooling. This condition is natural and is not a deficiency.

Ductwork makes booming noise. 1-Year Warranty. This booming is called “oil-canning”, Builder will repair the ductwork.

Separating or unattached ductwork.

1-Year Warranty. Builder will re-attach or re-secure ductwork that has become separated or unattached as long as it is not due to Homeowner misuse.

You should not walk on or place heavy objects against or otherwise subject ductwork to unusual loads.


19

INSULATION CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Insufficient insolation. 1-Year Warranty.

Builder will insulate the home as required to meet local energy and building requirements or, as applicable, FHA or VA requirements. Insulation does not render a wall or room soundproof.

Do not walk on or pack down insulation.

IRRIGATION CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY

Irrigation system fails to provide accurate area coverage.


Homeowner to maintain sprinkler heads to prevent blockage. Adjust direction and volume of sprinkler heads for maximum coverage.

Broken or irregularities in sprinkler heads, riser pipes, buried controlled valves, and related riser pipes.


Water damage to home due to sprinkler.

None. Warranty on damaged area will be voided.

Homeowner responsible to adjust sprinkler.

LANDSCAPING * Builder is responsible only for initially establishing the proper grades and swales, these become the Homeowner’s responsibility upon close of escrow. * Be sure to repair any washouts as soon as possible to minimize erosion.

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Builder installs healthy shrubs and trees where applicable.

None. These items are not covered under this Warranty. Please report these to the Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough. Homeowner is to maintain sprinkler heads to prevent blockages and water and maintain landscaping.

MASONRY - BRICK AND MORTAR CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Cracks in masonry foundation or basement walls.

1-Year Warranty. Cracks in masonry joints are quite common. Cracks in excess of 1/8” will be repaired. Builder not responsible for color variations.

Cracks in masonry or veneer walls. 1-Year Warranty. Cracks in masonry are quite common due to shrinkage. Cracks in excess of 3/8” will be repaired. Builder not responsible for color variations in new and old mortar.

MILDEW

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Mildew or fungus. None.

Mildew or fungus formation is a condition the builder cannot control. Please report these to the Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough.


20

PAINT, STAIN, OR VARNISH * Builder is not responsible to match or repair paint, paneling or wallpaper installed by customer. * Builder cannot guarantee an exact color match. Paint touch-ups will always appear a bit different in color and sheen than the old paint due to natural fading.


Deteriorating or peeling of

exterior/outside paint.

1-Year Warranty.

Builder shall ensure the exterior finishes have been applied properly and

covered adequately. Builder will repair paint, stain or varnish which peels or

deteriorates if due to improper application.

Fading of exterior or interior paint. None.

Fading of paint or stain is normal and not considered a defect. The amount

of fading will depend on the climate where the home is located and the

exposure of the home.

Please report these to the Builder for repair at the

Final Walkthrough.

Use window coverings to protect interior paint

fading.

Damaged, uneven, un-uniform,

sheen, texture, color or stain

Interior paint, stain, or varnish.

None.

Due to damage incurred during the moving process the Builder cannot warranty paint coverage after closing or first occupancy,

whichever occurs first. Please note at Homeowner Final Walkthrough. Homeowner to touch-up paint as needed.

Deteriorating or peeling of interior

paint.

1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only).

Builder shall ensure interior finishes have been applied properly and covered

adequately. If found to be a defect in application.

Builder will repair deteriorating or peeling paint one-time-only after closing

escrow or the first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Maintain interior paint per manufacturer’s

specifications.

Painting made necessary by other

repair work.

1-Year Warranty.

If painting is required because of necessary Warranty repair work done by

the Builder, Builder will paint to match surrounding areas as closely as

possible.

Deteriorating varnish or lacquer

finish on outside woodwork.

None. Varnish or lacquer on outside woodwork deteriorate quickly and is not covered in this Warranty. Please report these to the

Builder for repair at the Final Walkthrough.

Deteriorating varnish or lacquer

finish on inside woodwork.

1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only).

Builder will ensure that natural finishes have sufficient coverage of the

specified product. If found to be an issue with application, Builder will repair

one-time-only after closing escrow or the first occupancy, whichever occurs

first.

Builder does not warrant deteriorating varnish or

lacquer due to Homeowner use.

Mildew or fungus on painted

surfaces.

None.

Mildew or fungus will form on a painted surface if the structure is subject to

abnormal exposure. Mildew or fungus formation is a condition the builder

cannot control and is a Homeowner maintenance item.

Please report these to the Builder for repair at the

Final Walkthrough.

Mismatched edges of wall

coverings, pattern mismatch and

open seams.

None.

These items are not covered under this Warranty Please report at your Final Walkthrough for repair.


21

PLUMBING *Builder does not warrant pipes damaged by freezing due to homeowner negligence.

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Leaking valves or faucets. 30-Day Warranty.

Builder shall repair or replace any faucets or valves that leak due to deficiencies in workmanship or materials.

However, Leakage caused by worn washers or seal is a homeowner maintenance item.

Plumbing pipes have frozen and burst.

1-Year Warranty. Drain, waste, vent, and water pipes will be adequately protected to prevent freezing as required by the applicable plumbing requirements for normally anticipated cold weather and in accordance with the deign temperatures established by ASHRAE. Builder will repair ay pipes not meeting the ASHRAE standards.

Drain water pipes and outside faucets when they are exposed to freezing temperatures. Keep home temperature set above 55°F at all times.

Plumbing fixtures, appliances, or trim fitting deficiencies.

1-Year Warranty. Builder will repair any fixture, appliance, or fitting which does not meet the manufacturer’s standards.

Noise from improperly anchored pipes.

1-Year Warranty. Some noise in the water pipes is natural and comes from the flow of water and pipe expansion. If there is a pounding noise from improperly anchored pipes, Builder will repair.

Stoppage of sewer, fixtures, and drains.

1-Year Warranty. Builder will repair stoppage due to defects in construction. Builder is not responsible for any deficiency which is not construction related, including failure in the municipal systems. Builder is not responsible for repair costs incurred by Homeowner without prior approval of Builder.

If sewers, fixtures, and drains are clogged because of Homeowner actions, then Homeowner will pay the cost of repairing them.

Water supply system does not deliver water.

1-Year Warranty. Builder is responsible for connecting all on-site service to municipal water mains and private water supplies. Builder shall repair problems caused by deficiencies in workmanship and materials. Builder is not responsible for water quality. Builder is not responsible for problems caused by conditions beyond our control or municipal water system.

Septic tank distribution box and pump do not meet state, county, and local requirements.

1-Year Warranty. Builder will ensure septic tank meets state, county, or local requirements at installation. Builder will repair any defects in workmanship or materials. Builder is not responsible for conditions beyond our control such as freezing, saturated soil, an increase in the elevation of the water table, excessive use of the system, or limitations established by the local government agency.

Properly maintain the septic tank system to include proper grades, landscaping, and protection from vehicular traffic or excessive weight which would result in soil compaction. Tanks may need to be pumped during periods of excessive use or extended rainfall.

Septic drain fields. 1-Year Warranty. Septic drain fields should meet state, county, or local requirements. Builder will repair any septic drain fields that cannot properly handle the normal flow of household waste because of defects in workmanship or materials. Builder is not responsible for conditions beyond our control such as freezing, saturated soil, an increase in the elevation of the water table, excessive use of the system, or limitations established by the local government agency.

Plumbing finishes. None. Covered by manufacturer’s warranty.

Never use polish, detergent, cleansers, abrasives or cloths with abrasive surfaces. The use of such items, other than a soft damp cloth will nullify the manufacturer’s warranty.


22

ROLLER SHADES-BLINDES CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Damage to roller shades or window blinds.

None. Roller shades and window blinds are not covered by this Warranty.

Please report prior to closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

ROOFING CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Leaks in roof and/or flashings. 1-Year Warranty.

Builder will repair leaks in roof or flashings due to construction defects. Roofs and/or flashings should not leak under normally anticipated conditions, except where cause is determined to result from severe weather conditions, such as ice build-up, high winds, snow, and driven rain. Leaks caused by severe weather conditions, gutter overflow, or inadequate Homeowner maintenance are not covered by this Warranty.

Prevention of unusual snow and ice buildup is pertinent Homeowner maintenance. Do not permit any installation that punctures the roof. Walking on the roof can cause damage to tiles, shingles, and/or flashing. Have a professional check the roof periodically for damage. Properly gutter cleaning and maintenance can help prevent damage to your roof. (see “Gutters”)

Ice build-up on roof. None. During prolonged cold spells, ice is likely to build up on the eaves of the roof. This build-up will occur when snow and ice accumulate, and gutters and downspouts freeze. No action is required of the builder.

Sweep off and remove excess snow and ice buildup. Keep gutters clean of debris.

Standing water on roof. 1-Year Warranty. It is not unusual for minor ponding to occur on a flat roof for up to 24 hours after rainfall. However, if water is not draining properly, Builder will correct the drainage. Builder is not responsible if the rood was specifically designed to retain water.

SINKS AND TUBS

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Cracking, chipping, and scratches on porcelain surfaces of bathtubs and kitchen sinks.

None. These items are not warrantable after closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Cracking, chipping and scratches on porcelain surfaces of bathtubs and kitchen sinks can occur when surfaces are hit with a sharp or heavy object.

Rust spots on sinks tubs and fixtures.

None. Some minerals in water will cause rust spots on tubs, sinks, and their fixtures, this is normal and not covered by this Warranty.

WALLS – EXTERIOR

CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY SIDING Inadequate clearance between exterior siding and finished grade.

None. Builder will insure there is 6” clearance between siding and finished grade at the time of closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Maintain a 6” clearance between siding and finished grade. Report prior to closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.

Gaps on end and side edge. None. Gaps on end and side edge may occur due to normal expansion and contraction. Builder cannot control wood expansion and contraction. This is not covered by this Warranty.

Report prior to closing or first occupancy, whichever occurs first.


23

SIDING – Continued Siding deterioration or delamination.

1-Year Warranty. Siding should not deteriorate or delaminate within manufacturer’s specs. Shrinkage and expansion will occur with temperature and climate changes and are normal. Builder shall repair or replace as required unless caused by Homeowner neglect to maintain siding properly. Builder responsible for repainting only repaired sections. It should be expected that newly painted areas may not be an exact match to original surfaces.

Protect the siding from damage, such as leaning objects against siding, ball dents, and water from sprinklers striking the siding. Annually, seal or re-caulk siding. Report

STUCCO Cracks in stucco. 1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only).

Builder shall repair cracks in excess of 1/8” in width one-time-only during the Warranty Period. Color variations in stucco or normal and impossible to match perfectly. Builder is not responsible for color variations in stucco or repair work.

Minor cracks are typical in stucco wall surfaces and quite common around windows and door corners. You can minimize them by coating stucco with an approved stucco sealant or paint.

WALLS – INTERIOR CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY GYPSUM WALBOARD – SHEETROCK Visible defects such as nail pops, cracks, and seam lines due to normal shrinkage, expansion of movement of home.

None. Nail pops and blisters in tape are common in gypsum wallboard installation and are considered acceptable.

It is strongly recommended that no custom color/custom paint including but not limited to matte, semi-gloss, and/or “custom” finishes be installed until after one year of occupancy.

Defects such as, blisters in tape or loose tape, readily observed by visual inspection, without resorting to artificial light placements are not acceptable, except where repainting will cover the defect.

1-Year Warranty. Correct such defects to meet warranty standard.

Out of plumb walls. 1-Year Warranty. Builder will repair walls within the home that are more than ¼” out-of-plumb for any 30” vertical measurement.

Bowed walls or other interior. 1-Year Warranty. All interior and exterior walls have slight variances on their finished surfaces. Bowing walls will not detract from or blemish the wall’s finished surface. The Builder will repair any walls which bow more than 3/8” out of line within any 30” horizontal or vertical measurement taken a minimum of 16” from any sheetrock corner or opening.

LATH & PLASTER Cracks in lath & plaster on inside walls and ceilings.

1-Year Warranty (One-Time-Only). Minor crack are typical in lath & plaster. Builder will repair all cracks in excess of 1/8” wide one-time-only during Warranty Period.


24

VENTS & LOUVERS CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Leaks into attic through louvers and vents.

None. Home must have vents and louvers for proper ventilation. Rain and snow will sometimes come through these openings.

WEATHER STRIPPING & SEALS CONDITION BUILDER RESPONSIBILITY HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY Air leaking around doors & windows.

1-Year-Warranty (One-Time-Only). Some infiltration is normally noticeable around doors and windows, especially during high winds. Excessive infiltration is not acceptable. Builder shall adjust or correct poorly fitted windows or doors, or poorly fitted weather-stripping one-time-only during the Warranty Period.

Do not paint weather-stripping or remove any small felt pads which are attached to the doors or door jambs. Weather-stripping may hum in high winds, this is normal.

WINDOWS

(See “Doors & Windows”


25

INDEX YOUR NEW HOMEOWNER WARRANTY POLICY ....................................................... 1 HOMEOWNER MAINTENANCE OBLIGATION ........................................................... 2 MANUFACTURERS’ WARRANTIES ............................................................................ 2 REQUESTING WARRANTY SERVICE .......................................................................... 3 WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED BY THE WARRANTY .......................................................... 4 THE BATES HOMES EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY ................................................... 6 STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE .............................................................................. 8

APPLIANCES ......................................................................................................... 8 CABINETS ............................................................................................................. 8 CARPET ................................................................................................................ 8 CERAMIC TILE ....................................................................................................... 9 CONCRETE ............................................................................................................ 9 CONDENSATION LINES ....................................................................................... 10 DOORS & WINDOWS ......................................................................................... 11 DOORS - EXTERIOR ............................................................................................. 12 DOORS - INTERIOR ............................................................................................. 12 DOORS-SCREENS ................................................................................................ 12 DOORS-SLIDING ................................................................................................. 13 DOORS – BIFOLD ................................................................................................ 13 DOORS – GARAGE DOORS ................................................................................. 13 ELECTRICAL ........................................................................................................ 13 EXTERIOR CAULKING .......................................................................................... 14 FINISH CARPENTRY – EXTERIOR ......................................................................... 14 FINISH CARPENTRY – INTERIOR ......................................................................... 14

FINISHES ............................................................................................................ 14 COUNTERTOPS .................................................................................................. 14 MARBLE & STONE PRODUCTS ........................................................................... 15 FIREPLACES ....................................................................................................... 15 FLASHING & SHEETMETAL ................................................................................ 15 FLOORS- WOOD, TILE, RESILIENT ...................................................................... 16 GRADING ........................................................................................................... 17 GUTTERS ........................................................................................................... 17 HVAC-HEATING & COOLING .............................................................................. 18 INSULATION ...................................................................................................... 19 IRRIGATION ....................................................................................................... 19 LANDSCAPING ................................................................................................... 19 MASONRY - BRICK AND MORTAR ..................................................................... 19 MILDEW ............................................................................................................ 19 PAINT, STAIN, OR VARNISH ............................................................................... 20 PLUMBING ........................................................................................................ 21 ROLLER SHADES-BLINDES .................................................................................. 22 ROOFING ........................................................................................................... 22 SINKS AND TUBS ............................................................................................... 22 WALLS – EXTERIOR ............................................................................................ 22 SIDING ............................................................................................................... 22 STUCCO ............................................................................................................. 23 WALLS – INTERIOR ............................................................................................ 23 GYPSUM WALBOARD – SHEETROCK ................................................................. 23 LATH & PLASTER ............................................................................................... 23 VENTS & LOUVERS ............................................................................................ 24 WEATHER STRIPPING & SEALS .......................................................................... 24 WINDOWS ......................................................................................................... 24

WARRANTY REQUEST FORM

Email Warranty Request to: [email protected]

Please consult your Limited Warranty for Emergency procedures & contacts to expedite repairs.

DATE __________/__________/_______________ MM DD YYYY

To assure prompt and efficient warranty service, review and familiarize yourself with the Limited Warranty. Please list requests in detail and submitted photos to assist in the resolution of your warranty case. Upon receipt, a Warranty Manager will review your request and determine if your items fall under the 30-day or 1-year Limited Warranty and will work with you and trade partners to complete necessary warrantable work.

Please have a Homeowner or your Designated Representative available to meet with Field Representatives and allow Trade Partners entry to your home to complete work.

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