INDEX. Emergency Phone Number List. Customer Satisfaction Survey. Completion Acceptance Form. Warranty Service Request Form

Transcription

1 INDEX Welcome Letter Emergency Phone Number List Customer Satisfaction Survey Completion Acceptance Form Warranty Service Request Form Customer Service Warranty Information Notes:

2 Cambridge Homes Emergency Phone List Cambridge Homes P.O. Box 1939 Fax(208) Eagle ID Plumbing: Gale Plumbing Heating/Cooling: Alley Tel(208) Fax(208) Tel(208) Electrical: Cornerstone Electric Tel(208) Roofing: Wise Roofing Tel(208) Utility Hook- up Service: Idaho Power (208) Intermountain Gas (208) City of Star (Water/Sewer) (208) City of Star Police Dept. 911 City of Star Fire Dept. 911

3 Customer Satisfaction Survey Cambridge Homes P.O. Box 1939 Eagle ID Client Name: Project Name: Address: Dear Homeowner, Thank you for the opportunity to work on your home. We are glad you called upon us and hope that if future needs arise you will call us again. We hope the quality of our work pleased you. Any input you have regarding our performance would be greatly appreciated. Your comments are an important part of our quality assurance program. Please take a moment to fill out this form so that future clients will gain from your experience. Were your needs met promptly? Before the job ( ) Yes ( ) No During the job ( ) Yes ( ) No After the job ( ) Yes ( ) No Was the project timely? Start on time? ( ) Yes ( ) No Complete on time?( ) Yes ( ) No Finish Cleanly? ( ) Yes ( ) No Were our workers/subs courteous? ( ) Yes ( ) No Did we fulfill our agreement? ( ) Yes ( ) No Did you receive the value you expected? ( ) Yes ( ) No Was the quality of work as expected? ( ) Yes ( ) No Will you consider us for future projects? ( ) Yes ( ) No May we use your name as a reference for future jobs? ( ) Yes ( ) No Please write any additional comments. Signature: Date:

4 Cambridge Homes Completion Acceptance Form Date: Phone: Lot#: Subdivision Name: Address: Homeowner Name: The purpose of this form is to have you, our homebuyer(s), formally accept your home as meeting your expectations. This acceptance has come after your opportunity to carefully walk through your home with a Cambridge Homes representative. You are agreeing to accept your home in its present condition with the following exceptions (if any) remaining from your walk through. You are not agreeing to void or alter the Limited Warranty that Cambridge Homes is providing you, as outlined in the Cambridge Homes Warranty Manual. You are agreeing that no Cambridge Homes personnel induced you to close escrow on your home by promising you anything beyond what is outlined in our Sales Agreement and Limited Warranty Manual. We at Cambridge Homes are very pleased that you chose us to build your home and trust that you feel the same. Initial at Completion Location Description For office Use Homebuyer Signature: Date: Homebuyer Signature: Date: Cambridge Homes Rep: Date:

5 Cambridge Homes Completion Acceptance Form Date: Phone: Lot#: Subdivision Name: Address: Homeowner Name: Please list below any items you are requesting warranty service for by filling out the location in your home with a brief description of the problem(s). Initial at Completion Location Description For office Use Comments: Homebuyer Signature: Date: Homebuyer Signature: Date: Cambridge Homes Rep: Date:

6 Cambridge Homes P.O. Box 1939 Eagle ID (208) Dear Homeowner, We at Cambridge Homes would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to your new home. The dedication to quality that we put into each Cambridge Home insures our homebuyer s many years of enjoyment and pride in ownership. Your continuing satisfaction is our primary concern. In the front pouch of this manual you will find a Customer Satisfaction Survey along with a self- addressed envelope. Please take a moment to let us know what kind of job we did for you. We appreciate any feedback you give us, as we are doing our best to give you the best service possible. In order to help you become familiar with the features of your new home, we have created our Homeowners Manual, (a copy of which accompanies this letter). You will find that it provides you with useful tips and information for the proper care and maintenance of your home. If you will take a few minutes to read it prior to your walk through, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have about it. During the first year of ownership, your home is covered by our limited warranty. The limited warranty is detailed in the warranty section of your homeowner s manual. It will explain what items are warrantable and the procedure for requesting warranty service. Should you have any questions about your home or warranty service, our Customer Service Representative will be more than happy to assist you. If you have a question or situation that you feel needs my attention, please feel free to address your letter to me at our corporate office. Again, welcome to the Cambridge Homes family of homebuyers. I wish you and yours many years of enjoyment. Sincerely, Donald Newell, President

7 About Customer Service Cambridge Homes is committed to building every home using the highest quality materials and workmanship. We believe in this commitment and in providing the best customer service possible. Walk Through When construction of your new home has been completed and we ve assured that your home has met our quality control guidelines, a pre- closing introductory walk through will be scheduled with you. The purpose of this walk through is to provide you with the opportunity to inspect your new home and learn about all its features and how they operate. You will be shown locations of such items as utility controls and emergency shut- offs. A final walk through will take place in order to re- inspect what items, if any, were noted on your introductory walk list. Also at that time, we will answer any questions you may have and review your homeowners manual. Occasionally, there may be items remaining, which were noted during your introductory walk through. We will record any outstanding items on the completion acceptance form so that we can both monitor their prompt completion. At the close of the walk through you will be asked to sign the inspection forms indicating you understand your warranty and accept your new home subject to the exceptions, if any, that are noted on your completion acceptance form. Service Policy Except for emergencies, service requests must be submitted in writing to our office. Report emergencies immediately. This reporting procedure assures that we can respond to all service requests quickly and efficiently. It is our policy to complete repairs and replacements within thirty (30) days from the receipt of your service request. This includes repairs and replacements that are noted during walk through. Therefore walk through items could be repaired after you move in. At times, due to circumstances beyond our control, some repairs may take more than thirty (30) days. Delays can be caused by shortage of materials, back ordered parts from manufacturers, labor problems or inclement weather. You will be kept informed of work scheduled for your home. Service Requests Before you request warranty service, please review the Limited Warranty section of this manual. This will help you determine if your request is covered by the Cambridge Homes Limited Warranty or is considered to be your responsibility. Also, give yourself enough time to accumulate several items on one request. We suggest you live in your home at least thirty (30) days before you request service.

8 For regular service situations, use one of the Request for Service forms including your lot number, name of your development, address, and work and home telephone numbers. Provide a brief description of the work requested and its location in your home. If you mail a Request for Service form to the office, we will follow these procedures. When we receive your request for service we will schedule an appointment with you to determine if the items are covered by the Cambridge Homes Limited Warranty. If possible, defective items will be repaired or replaced at that time. If the work cannot be completed immediately, you will be notified of the date and approximate time that the work is scheduled for your home. Our policy is to complete all repairs in thirty (30) days or less. Occasionally, the work may take longer than thirty (30) days due to unavailability of parts, inclement weather, or labor problems. All warranty work will be completed by Cambridge Homes or by subcontractors that we select. Subcontractor Service Or subcontractors are responsible for their original work. Unless an emergency, do not contact independent subcontractors to make warranty repairs for you. Cambridge Homes will not be responsible for expenses that you incur for work that is done by others unless the work is authorized, in writing, by Cambridge Homes. Cambridge Homes subcontractors take pride in their level of service and their quality of workmanship. If you have a problem with one of our subcontractors, contact our office immediately. Your comments help us to maintain the high level of service that you expect. Emergency Service Household emergencies are problems that require immediate attention to protect you and your family from harm or to avoid damage to your property, home, or lot. These problems include. A total stoppage of the plumbing drain system. If your plumbing system ceases to work, none of your sinks, tubs, or toilets will function properly. The stoppage of one toilet or drain when other bathrooms are functional is NOT an emergency. A water leak, which requires that the water supply to your home be shut off to avoid serious water damage. A leak, which can be isolated by the shutoffs under the cabinet or plumbing fixture, is NOT an emergency. A total electrical failure. A partial electrical failure which renders inoperable your refrigerator, stove, oven, air conditioner, or furnace. IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, YOUR FIRST STEP SHOULD BE TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY.

9 In case of a household emergency protect your family from harm. After that, take steps to correct or lessen the effects of the emergency. Turning off the water to a particular fixture or turning off the water main to your home can minimize damage from a water leak. Next, call the appropriate subcontractor directly at the number listed on the emergency phone number list at the front of this manual. This will eliminate considerable delay and inconvenience for you. Also call our office number listed on the inside cover of this manual to report the emergency. If your situation does not fall within the emergency guidelines, you should use the procedures outlined earlier in this section. However, if you believe that a delay in responding to a written request could result in further damage, at that point in time call our office. Warranty to Original Buyers Subject to the exclusions and limitations listed below, Cambridge Homes makes the following warranties to the original buyer. Cambridge Homes warrants your home to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year, normal wear and tear excluded, unless a different or no warranty is specified in writing. The warranty period begins on the date of the close of escrow. An item is considered to be defective if it fails to function within accepted building industry standards due to deficiencies in design, materials, or workmanship. Building industry standards allow for varying tolerances for different materials and their application. For additional information regarding standards of care and workmanship, please refer to the maintenance section of this manual. Minor cracks in concrete, masonry, and stucco are unavoidable and considered normal due to expansion and contraction of rigid materials. Non- structural cracks in concrete, stucco, grout, wood, drywall, plaster and other materials are in the same manner considered normal due to shrinkage and settling of new constructed materials. Limited Warranties The following items and their noted warranty periods take precedence over the one year limited warranty. Please note that their expiration dates vary from the one (1) year period. Appearance Items Cambridge Homes warrants the following appearance items to be free from cosmetic defects at the time of sale. Because these items can be easily damaged during your move in, a thorough inspection should be made to determine their condition at the time of your walk through.

10 A cosmetic defect is a material deficiency that is readily visible and substantial enough to affect the overall appearance of the item. Examples of the items that could have a cosmetic defect that is not covered under the terms of our limited warranty and therefore must be noted at the time of the walk through are: Appliance Finishes Bathtub and Sink Finishes Cabinet Finishes Plumbing Fixture Finishes Ceramic Floor Tiles/Grout Lighting Fixtures Window Screens, Frames, or Glass Luminous Light Panels Door Hardware Countertops Drywall Landscaping Light Bulbs Walls Mirrors Paint Roofing Cultured Marble Carpet, Vinyl Wood, Floors, and Trim Plumbing Cambridge Homes warrants your plumbing to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for up to one year. Plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, bathtubs, and sinks are warranted for one year. In some cases, a manufacturer s representative may inspect your plumbing fixtures before repairs are authorized. Chips in the fixtures, which are a result of homeowner s misuse, are not warranted. Plumbing stoppages are warranted for thirty (30) days after occupancy if they are construction related and not caused by homeowner s misuse. Waste, water, and gas piping are warranted for one year. This warranty is void if any alterations are made by anyone other than an authorized technician. Repairs or replacements will be made if it can be determined that said damage or defect likely occurred during construction and was not caused by the homeowner. Landscaping (if applicable) Cambridge Homes warrants the landscaping to be alive at the time of sale. Plants and shrubs are warranted from shock for thirty (30) days, and trees are warranted for ninety (90) days. If trees are planted during their dormant period, they will be warranted until the time of spring growth. Repairs and replacements will be made if it can be determined that said damage was not caused by the homeowner or the effects of nature. Landscaping requires immediate care. This warranty does not cover landscaping that dies because of under or over watering, soil conditions, lack of fertilizer, pests, disease, inclement

11 weather, negligence, or abuse. Tips for proper care of your landscaping can be found in the Maintenance section of this manual. The sprinkler heads are warranted only until the time of sale. During the final walk, test your sprinkler system and report any problems on the walk through form. The sprinkler system, including the clock, underground plumbing and valves, is covered under the Limited Warranty. Damage to the sprinkler system is not warranted. Appliance Warranties Consumer Product Warranties assigned to Buyers: Seller hereby transfers, assigns, and passes through to you any and all manufacturer or supplier warranties on consumer products to the full extent permitted by law. You must make claims directly to the supplier or manufacturer under those warranties. You should be aware that some consumer product warranties start from the date the product is installed, and that date can be earlier than the date on which your house and component warranties start. You should review the consumer product warranties that you receive and make yourself aware of when such warranties start and end. Defects in appliances are covered by a separate warranty from the manufacture. We have assigned these warranties to you and you should follow their procedures for warranty claims, including the completion of the warranty completion cards. If you find a defect in an appliance, contact the manufacturer directly at the telephone provided. If you need assistance in contacting the manufacturer or cannot get the complaint resolved to your satisfaction, please notify Cambridge Homes. Exclusions from Coverage The following items are not covered in this limited warranty. Color Match Color matches of materials used in original construction or in repair or replacement of defective items are excluded from coverage. This is due to uncontrollable factors such as dye lot, weathering or normal wear and tear. This includes but is not limited to: Floor Coverings Stain on any Wood Surface Ceramic Tile Interior and Exterior Paint Cultured marble Brick, Stone Roofing Stucco, Grout, or Mortar

12 Countertops Siding Concrete Exterior Damage After Occupancy Damage caused by the homeowner or his parties is excluded from coverage. Damage due to ordinary wear and tear, lack of timely and proper maintenance and abusive or unreasonable use is excluded from coverage. Damage, injury or loss due to acts, elements or natural occurrences beyond our control is excluded from coverage under the terms of this Limited Warranty. Damage of this nature is normally covered by homeowner s insurance. Contact your insurance agent within twenty- four (24) hours from the time the damage occurred. Secondary, incidental or consequential damages and bodily injury are excluded from coverage under the terms of this Limited Warranty. Damage to personal property, not included in the sale of your home, such as wallpaper, window coverings, or furniture, are excluded from coverage under this Limited Warranty. Secondary damage and damage to personal property are normally covered by homeowner s insurance. Contact your insurance agent within twenty- four (24) hours from the time the damage occurred. Sellers Warranty Obligations If a defect in materials or workmanship covered by this Limited Warranty occurs, Cambridge Homes will repair or replace the defective items within a reasonable time, at no cost to the homeowner. Cambridge Homes will not reimburse the homeowner, or his agent, for any repairs made without prior written consent of Cambridge Homes. Steps taken by Cambridge Homes to correct defects shall not extend the warranty period beyond the initial term of one year, Maintenance of Your Home Your new home will require regular preventative maintenance by you in order to preserve its beauty and value. An understanding of how to care for its features will prevent costly repairs and replacements later. In the following pages we have provided an overview of the features and materials in your new home. Study each topic carefully so that you become familiar with the routine maintenance that your home requires.

13 Vinyl Windows and Doors When cleaning vinyl windows and doors, use the mildest cleaners possible. NEVER use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Some chemicals can harm vinyl, PVC, SuperCap surfaces and other window components. We recommend Fantastik and similar products to clean vinyl window frame surfaces. Over- the- counter glass products are recommended for cleaning windows. Below is a chart of cleaners for specific circumstances recommended by the vinyl Windows and Door institute. Cleaners to Remove Stains from Vinyl Window and Door Frames: Bubble Gum- Fantastic, Murphy Oil Soap, Solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water, Windex Crayon- Lestoil DAP (oil based caulk)- Fantastik Felt Tip Pen- Fantastik, water- based cleaners Grass- Fantastik, Lysol, Murphy Oil Soap, Windex Lipstick- Fantastik, Murphy Oil Soap Lithium Grease- Fantastik, Lestoil, Murphy Oil Soap, Windex Mold and Mildew- Fantastik, Solution of 30% vinegar and 70% water, Windex Motor Oil- Fantastik, Lestoil, Murphy Oil Soap, Windex Oil- Soft Scrub Paint- Brillo Pad, Soft Scrub Pencil- Soft Scrub Rust- Fantastik, Murphy Oil Soap, Windex Tar- Soft Scrub Top Soil- Fantastik, Lestoil, Murphy Oil Soap Appliances Your appliances are covered by warranties from the manufacturers. Information about each of the appliances can be found in the literature supplied by the manufacturers. Copies of these booklets are provided during your walk through. These booklets contain a list of the most common problems, their causes and corrections. Garbage Disposal Read and follow the manufacturer s instructions listed on the disposal for tips on proper operation. Do not load the disposal with food items before turning it on. For proper operation, turn on cold water then start the disposal. Then, drop the food items slowly into the unit. When the unit sounds clear, turn the disposal off and leave the water running for an additional thirty (30) seconds. This allows the food waste to be carried into the sewer lines.

14 Only foods that are non- fibrous and easily pulverized should be placed into the disposal. Examples of foods not to be placed in the disposal are artichoke leaves, corn husks, celery, onion skins, olive pits and bones. Solid or liquid grease and rice are also not recommended for the disposal. If your disposal overloads or jams, follow these corrective steps: Turn off the disposal and the cold water. Wait three (3) minutes for the unit to cool then press the reset button usually located on the bottom of the disposal. Continue with proper use of disposal. If this does not correct the problem, your unit is probably obstructed. Follow these corrective steps: Unplug the disposal before attempting to fix it yourself. Check the circuit breakers. An overload of this type may have tripped the circuit. Reset any tripped circuit breakers. Locate the service wrench. It may be taped to the disposal or on the cabinet door. Insert one end of the wrench into the bottom of the unit. Work back and forth until unit turns freely. The obstruction should be loosened so that it can be removed. Remove the obstruction, plug the disposal in, press the reset button and continue with proper use of the disposal. Balconies and Decks (if applicable) Your new home may feature a redwood deck. Do not install heavy equipment or nail anything to your balcony or deck. The hole caused by the installation could cause damage. Such damage is your responsibility. Moving or dragging furniture across a deck can also damage the surface. Periodic maintenance is required to protect your new deck from weather damage and to keep it looking good. Cabinets Wood cabinets in your home have the same finish as fine furniture and should be given the same care and treatment. For daily care, dust with a damp cloth. Washing with water will damage the finish. Periodic use of appropriate furniture polish or lemon oil is recommended to preserve the beauty of the wood. Minor scratches can be covered with a putty stick that matches the finish of your cabinets. A putty stick can be purchased at paint or hardware stores. Caulking Over time, and particularly during warm weather, caulking will dry out and shrink. When this happens, it no longer provides a good seal against moisture. Routine caulking around tubs, inside showers and on countertops is necessary to prevent long term water damage. Caulking may be performed to drywall cracks and separations in wood trim. See interior walls within this

15 section of the manual. Caulking compounds and dispensing guns are available at hardware stores and home centers. Concrete Concrete is a major structural material in your new home. It provides strength and durability for the foundation, driveway, and walkways. While concrete requires minimal care, it should be kept free of accumulated dirt debris. Oil and grease stains should be removed promptly using concrete cleaners, which are available at home centers and hardware stores. With the variations of temperature and humidity in our area, concrete is subject to constant expansion and contraction from day to day. Minor cracks and surface color variations in concrete will result and are unavoidable. Small cracks do not affect the material s strength or durability. Cracks may also result from excessive watering. In addition, water and salt, which are present in the soil, can alter the color and finish of your concrete. This is normal and cannot be avoided. The driveways and walkways in your new home are designed for residential use. They are not designed to withstand extremely heavy loads. Do not permit large trucks and delivery vans to use your driveway. Countertops The countertops in your kitchen or bathrooms may be constructed of glazed ceramic tile, Formica, cultured marble, granite or Corian. They are designed to provide years of beautiful and functional use. After you have moved into your home, the condition and care of your countertops are your responsibility. Always use a cutting board to protect the kitchen counter when preparing food. Hot liquids and bathroom chemicals can cause almost imperceptible stains on tile and cultured marble. In time, the stains can accumulate and become unsightly. Avoid dropping pots and pans on your countertops. This can break or chip the counter s surface. Re- caulk separations that occur around the sinks and along the backsplash of any countertops. For additional information, see Caulking within this section of the manual. Ceramic Tile Because an exact color match of ceramic tile may not be possible, we urge you to take special care to avoid breaking or damaging the ceramic tile on your countertops, floor, walls, or shower/tub. Ceramic tile is relatively brittle and can be broken by a sharp blow from a hard object.

16 Because grout between the tiles is porous, we suggest that the grout be sealed before you use your counters and once each year thereafter. This will help prevent stubborn stains from penetrating the grout. Wipe the tile and grout with warm soapy water to keep it clean. Strong cleaners such as Lysol can stain the grout. Corian Corian is a durable, man- made product designed especially for use in countertops. It is not impervious to stains and damage, and it requires regular cleaning to maintain its beauty. Clean your Corian countertops with a soft cloth and mild, soapy water. Dry using a soft, absorbent towel and buff to a shiny finish. Corian is susceptible to burns from hot pans and cigarettes. A professional craftsman can repair minor burns, but you should avoid placing anything hot directly on your Corian. Cultured Marble Cultured Marble is a man- made product. Proper maintenance of cultured marble is similar to the maintenance of Corian. If, after time and use, the surface of your cultured marble countertops become dull you might consider having it polished by a professional who specializes in marble polishing. Formica Formica is a plastic man- made material. Proper maintenance and care should involve keeping countertops clean with soap and water. To avoid nicks and scrapes, do not set pans directly on the surface or cut on the surface of the countertop. Granite Granite is a soft, natural stone used to add beauty and style to your countertops. It requires routine care to maintain its finish. Because granite is subject to pitting, care should be used to avoid damaging the surface. Variations in color are inherent to granite and should be expected. Like all countertops, spills should be cleaned up immediately. Left to absorb into the surface, spills can discolor the granite. To lessen the effects of staining, you should consider having your granite countertops sealed. Your hardware store or home center may offer special products made for cleaning purposes. Doors The doors and doorframes in your new home are made of painted or varnished wood or wood products. These are subject to expansion and contraction due to local weather conditions such as heat and humidity. The result can be warping and sticking. This is normal and may correct itself. You should allow your home to go through at least one dry and one damp season before

17 you plane the wood, make other permanent changes and before any corrections are made. Please notify Cambridge Homes of any initial problems when they occur. Small cracks may also develop during a dry season, and again, they may disappear over time, they can be easily filled with wood putty or filler obtained at your local hardware store or home center. Doors exposed to the elements need immediate attention. The hinges and locks on your doors may require lubrication from time to time to prevent squeaks. Remove the hinge pin and rub it with a graphite tube or lead pencil and then replace it. Do not use oil as a lubricant because it accumulates dust and grease. Doorknobs that are used frequently can become loose. Tighten any screws that are loose as soon as you notice the problem. Most doorknobs have a clear lacquer finish. Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth if your doorknobs need cleaning. Avoid using an abrasive cleanser, as it will scratch the finish. Teach children not to hang on the doorknobs or swing back and forth. This will cause the door to sag and hardware to loosen. The privacy key, which you have been provided, will open interior doors. Remove finger smudges by washing with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Dry the surface thoroughly with a soft cloth or towel. Most door hardware has a clear lacquer finish that can be removed by abrasive cleaners. Use non- abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth to polish your door hardware to a shiny finish. Closet Doors If your closets feature sliding doors, keep clothes and other items away from their path. The rollers and tracks require periodic adjustment. Do not slam a sliding door closed or force it to move should it stick. This may damage the door or its rollers. Exterior Doors Check the finish on your exterior doors several times a year. If you notice that the finish is beginning to crack or peel, refinish the door promptly. Doors that receive direct sunlight or are exposed to wind and rain will need to be refinished more often. Unattended, cracking and peeling will rapidly destroy the surface of the door. Water can damage wood surfaces severely. Reposition sprinklers that spray doors and other wood surfaces. Inspect the weatherproofing on exterior doors frequently. Weather stripping should form a reasonable tight seal to prevent air and water from entering. Normal contraction of wood doors can leave a small gap in the weather stripping. The small gap may close when the humidity increases and the door expands. French opening doors or double doors do not weather seal as well as single opening doors. This is normal and cannot be avoided. Adjust or replace weather stripping that has worked loose.

18 Check the finish on exterior door hardware frequently. Metal surfaces exposed to outside elements will tarnish and corrode. Clean with a soft cloth to remove dirt and dust. Polish or wax your doors to further protect the finish. Garage Doors Your garage door is relatively easy to maintain. It is important to close your garage door during rain. Water collecting on the door is heavy and can cause severe warping and damage to the door and the door hardware. If needed, lubricate the hardware on your garage door every three months. Use light lubricating oil and wipe away excess oil. Do not lubricate with WD40 or other spray lubricants containing solvents. A professional should install automatic garage door openers. In most cases, the tension springs must be readjusted to operate properly without excessive chatter. Modern automatic garage door are designed with a safety feature to automatically reverse if the door hits an obstruction. If you will be away from your home for an extended period of time, unplug or turn off your garage door opener. This will prevent your garage door from being operated in your absence. Electrical System The electric system in your new home was designed by professionals to comply with local, state and national standard. It is intended for normal residential use. Any changes or additions to your electrical system can result in damage or fire to your home and may void your electrical warranty. Contact Cambridge Homes during regular business hours for any problem in your electrical system. After hours and on weekends, contact the electrical subcontractor listed in the front of this book on the emergency phone number list. Circuit Breakers Circuit breakers are the safety valves of your homes electrical system. Check the location of the electrical panel box as soon as you move in. There will be one master circuit breaker and several individual circuit breakers. Each circuit breaker will be identified on the chart that is mounted in the panel. Circuit breakers trip under excessive electrical load. Reset tripped circuit breakers by moving them to the extreme OFF position, then to the ON position. We suggest that you inspect and become familiar with the individual circuit breakers soon after you move in. In the event of a power loss in part, or all, of your home, follow the steps outlined in the Troubleshooting section of this manual.

19 Ground Fault Interrupt Circuits The ground fault interrupt (GFI) circuit includes outlets near kitchen and bathroom sinks, tubs and at the garage and exterior, wherever water is present. The GFI circuit is equipped with a special outlet that is designed to break the flow of electricity at any location in the circuit to prevent an electrical shock. To restore electricity, the GFI outlet must be reset. Appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators and power tools and timing devices such as those used for automatic sprinkler systems should not be connected to the GFI circuit. The GFI outlet will break the flow of electricity to prevent electrical shock. Lighting Incandescent lighting fixtures in your new home are designed for standard wattage bulbs. To avoid excessive wear, do not exceed sixty (60) watt bulbs. Check each fixture for recommended wattage. To conserve energy, use lower wattage bulbs where desired. Fluorescent light fixtures are typically featured in the garage, laundry, kitchen and bathrooms. Fluorescent tubes use less energy compared with incandescent bulbs. These tubes make a slight buzzing noise and may flicker when turned on. Readjusting the tubes may reduce the noise. Outlets and Switches Convenient electrical outlets can be found in every room in your new home. Most of the outlets are designed for two plugs. Do not exceed the capacity for which the outlets were designed. Devices that allow for multiple extension cords can cause fire. Some outlets are controlled by a wall switch. On a two- plug outlet, the wall switch will control only one plug. CAUTION: Children can be injured if they poke metal objects into wall outlets. To prevent this, install childproof devices on all floor level electrical outlets not in use. Smoke Detectors One or more smoke detectors have been installed in your new home. The type and location of the smoke detectors were chosen in accordance with local and state building codes. Please do not move or disable these smoke detectors. We suggest that you test your smoke detectors monthly and, if equipped with batteries, replace the batteries annually. Smoke detectors that use only electricity will not work in the event of a power failure. The purpose of your smoke detector is to detect the presence of fire in your home. At the first indication of fire, evacuate your family and call the fire department.

20 Exterior Finishes The primary exterior finishes on your new home are siding, stucco, and or stone. Because they are exposed to the constantly changing weather conditions, the exterior finishes require routine maintenance. Do not allow sprinklers to spray the exterior surfaces of your home. Stucco Stucco is a brittle cement product that is subject to expansion and contraction with temperature changes. Minor cracks will develop in the outer layer of stucco. This is normal and does not reduce the protective function of the stucco in any way. Cambridge Homes will not be responsible for minor cracks in stucco. Small pieces of stucco may chip and fall off the bottom of stucco walls along the metal strip referred to as the screed. This is normal. Wood Wood is found throughout your new home. Wood is a natural porous material that requires protection with paint when exposed to the elements. Inspect your exterior wood surfaces frequently. If you find cracking or peeling of the paint, sand the area and repaint it promptly. The exterior wood on your new home should be repainted every two to four years. Surfaces that receive direct sun could require repainting frequently. Split or damaged wood, particularly on the ends of beams, should be caulked and repainted. Splits along the length of beams are call weather checks. These are normal and do not affect the structural integrity of the beams. The natural drying of wood can cause it to warp and split. Gaps will occur in wood molding and trim as a result. To make repairs, reposition the trim, reset popped or loose nails, and use an exterior caulk to fill any remaining gaps. Finish with touch- up paint. Fencing (if applicable) Fencing is installed according to city or subdivision ordinance. Nearly all types of fences need regular preventative maintenance. Do not allow children to climb any type of fence. If you choose to add fencing to your property, we urge you to employ a professional fencing contractor. It is your responsibility to locate the property lines and have fencing installed according to local ordinances, building codes and your CC&R s, (if applicable). Refer any questions to local building authorities and your homeowners association.

21 Fireplaces (if applicable) Modern gas fireplaces are designed to add beauty to your home. They are not designed to significantly heat your home. Use your fireplace with caution. We suggest that you store the gas key away from the fireplace, particularly if you have small children. If you have a wood burning fireplace we suggest that you use small fires. Large fires can cause abnormal cracking to mortar joints and overheat brickwork resulting in severe damage to the fireplace. Fireplaces need a draft to function properly. You may need to open a nearby window before you light a fire. (Not applicable to gas direct vent units). Floors The flooring in your new home will last longer if you provide routine maintenance and care. The most common cause of damaged flooring is accumulated dirt and grime. Clean all flooring surfaces as soon as dirt appears. Our limited warranty extends to flooring materials that were provided and installed by our flooring subcontractor. If you choose flooring from another source, all warranty and service claims must be directed to that vendor. Squeaky floors can be caused by a change in the weather or settling of your home. This may correct itself over time. Re- nailing affected areas can quiet persistent floor squeaks. Inspect your flooring carefully during your walk through. Any damages or defects should be noted at the time of the walk through. Subsequent damages, including broken tile, scratched wood flooring, torn carpeting, and scuffed vinyl become your responsibility. Carpet Vacuum carpet frequently to avoid buildup of dirt and grime. Use a fixed brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. If your vacuum cleaner has a beater type attachment, the beater should barely touch the tops of the carpet fibers. Eliminate carpet shredding fibers as they appear. Loose carpet fibers will work their way to the surface for quite some time. This is known as fluffing or shredding. Vacuum these fibers as part of your routine cleaning. If a tuft of carpet appears which is longer than the surrounding carpet, do not try to pull it. It is probably attached to the backing and simply needs to be trimmed to the height of the surrounding tufts. Place entrance mats inside and outside your doors to help trap soil before it can be tracked into your home. Do not be alarmed by visible carpet seams, most rooms will have at least one. Seams are often more visible in a new home before it has been furnished and before carpet fibers have had a chance to meld together. Visible seams are not a defect.

22 Remove spills immediately. Stain removal is easier if it is done promptly. Use a spoon or a dull knife to remove solid materials. Blot up liquid spills with a white towel. Do not rub, scrub, or use a brush as they can damage carpet fibers. Consult a carpet professional for stubborn stains. Cleaning products should be tested on a section of carpet that is not obvious. Do not use cleaners that have not been tested and certified for the carpet materials in your home. Applying a carpet protector to the surface of your carpet may void your carpet warranty. Use drapes or blinds to shade carpet from direct sunlight. Sunlight tends to gradually fade carpet over time. Thoroughly clean your carpets at least once a year. While do- it- yourself carpet shampoo can be effective, consider employing a professional carpet cleaner. The professional equipment, materials and experience will add years of life to your carpet. Ceramic Tile Floors Ceramic tiles provide a durable, long lasting finish. There are two types of ceramic tile- glazed and unglazed. Both types of tile can break or chip. Be careful when handling hard or heavy objects over a tile floor. Even high heeled shoes can damage tile. Typically unglazed tile is more susceptible to damage than glazed tile. Glazed ceramic tile is recognized by its shiny, smooth finish. It is cared for in the same manner as ceramic tile countertops. Like your countertop, sealing the grout will help prevent stains. Unglazed ceramic tile is noted for its uneven porous finish. Because the tile is porous you may want to seal it to prevent moisture from penetrating and stains from occurring. Periodic scrubbing and buffing of the floor will restore its beauty and luster. A professional flooring contractor should be sought for more extensive cleaning. Marble Floors Marble flooring is noted for its beauty and durability. Most marble contains natural fissures that resemble cracks. This is inherent and normal. Your marble floor requires routine care to maintain its finish. A hard wax finish will protect the surface and frequent buffing will enhance the shine. Marble is softer than ceramic tile and may be easily scratched. Avoid dropping hard or heavy objects onto your marble floors. Hardwood Floors Clean your hardwood floors as often as you vacuum your carpets. Sweep the floors and mop with a soft, dry mop or cloth. Do not use water or water based cleaners. Do not flood hardwood floors with water. This will cause stain, warping, and the destruction of the flooring. Wipe up spills immediately. Do not use water based detergents, bleach or one-

23 step cleaners on hardwood flooring. Do not drag heavy appliances across hardwood flooring. Permanent damage to the finish can result. High heeled shoes can also damage the hardwood floor. Vinyl Flooring Modern, resilient vinyl flooring is easily cared for and particularly desirable in heavy traffic areas. Vinyl is also a relatively soft material that can be damaged by heavy appliances, dropped tools, high heeled shoes, and legs of furniture. Such damage is permanent but a professional can replace localized areas. Heating and Air Conditioner Your new home is equipped with a heating unit and air conditioning system that complies with local and state energy codes. With proper care, both systems will provide many years of dependable service. You should learn how to shut off the gas to your heating unit at both the supply line and gas meter locations. Read the manufacturer s warranty and instruction booklet and become familiar with the heating and air conditioning systems before using them. All questions and requests for warranty service on heating and air conditioning should be directed to Cambridge Homes during normal business hours. After hours and on weekends, contact the subcontractor who installed the system. Their name and telephone number is listed on the emergency phone number list at the front of this manual. In the event of a problem with your heating or air conditioning system, you can also refer to the trouble shooting section of this manual. Heating and air conditioning can play an important role in the stability of your home for the first year after you move in. By maintaining a reasonable temperature you can minimize the contraction and expansion in your home. During extremely hot and sunny days, heat and sunlight radiating through windows can be more than the capability of your air conditioning to overcome. Keep drapes and blinds closed to reduce radiate heat. Outside temperatures over one hundred ten degrees may affect system performance for short periods of time. Changing your filters regularly will enhance the operation of your heating and air conditioning systems. Thermostat A thermostat controls the temperature of your home. It is typically located on an inside wall on the first floor away from exterior doors and windows. Do not place a lamp or heat- producing appliance next to your thermostat. Heat generated by such an object will produce an incorrect reading. Leaving the fan running on a warm day circulates the air and may reduce your power bill.

24 Air Registers Air registers can adjust to control the flow of air into individual rooms. Depending on how often you use certain rooms as well as your own personal needs, you can open or close registers directing more air to meet your needs. This should reduce your energy bill. If you live in a two- story home and use both heating and air conditioning, you will need to adjust your registers for winter and for summer. Because hot air rises while cool air falls, it is difficult to maintain an even air temperature throughout your home. Adjust your registers so that in the winter the first floor receives more warm air and in the summer the second floor receives more cool air. This will somewhat balance the overall air temperature. Interior Walls The walls and ceilings in your new home are constructed of wood and other materials, which are subject to normal shrinkage and settling. Molding and trim can shrink and warp in some cases and drywall will tend to crack at corners. These effects are particularly obvious during the first year after your home is built. Your walls may require maintenance by you to overcome the effects of expansion and contraction. Complete any repairs using the matching touch- up paint provided at closing. The walls of your home are textured for beauty and style. The texture is relatively soft and can be damaged by scrubbing with abrasive cleaners and rough brushes. Do not attempt to clean smudges from a flat painted wall. Instead, paint over the area with matching touch- up paint. When cleaning smudges from enameled walls, wipe off the excess water immediately. Do not permit the drywall to become soaked with water. Use care when hanging pictures and other decorative items. The drywall is brittle and will break if hit with a hammer. Repair any nail holes and minor cracks with a dab of caulking, spackle, or putty. The walls are constructed in a conventional manner and are not designated for pocket doors to be added later. Where a pocket door is an original feature of your home, use care when hanging pictures because hangers may impede the movement of the door. Irrigation System (if applicable) We suggest that you consult a professional for advice on the type of system, the material and layout of the water lines before adding to your existing irrigation system. Excess water can adversely affect your landscaping and property. Take special care to allow for proper runoff and prevent erosion. Pooling water can damage your landscaping and crack concrete walks and patios. In times of heavy rain, it can lead to flooding and further damage your property and adjacent properties. Expansive soils in particular react negatively to excess water.

25 Position sprinkler heads so water does not fall on wood, stucco, and other exterior surfaces. Automatic sprinkler systems should not be connected to a GFI circuit. Before cold weather arrives, you should winterize your sprinkler system. Cambridge Homes cannot be responsible for pipes or valves that are exposed to freezing weather. Keep in mind that careful planning and maintenance now will conserve water and reduce your water bill. Landscaping, Grading and Drainage The contours and features of your lot are designed to protect against flooding and erosion. The use of small hills and valleys, called berms and swales, direct the water away from your home and adjacent properties. These contours must be maintained to avoid water damage during heavy rains. Berms designed to direct flow of water away from slopes, are especially important and must not be altered. It is your responsibility to maintain the original grading and drainage of your lot. We suggest you consult a professional when the time comes to landscape your lot. Any damage to your property or neighboring properties as a result of your landscape improvements as well as change to the grading and drainage will be your responsibility. Plan to water your landscaping routinely during the hot, summer months. Newly planted flowers and shrubs are particularly vulnerable to hot weather. Even mature landscaping can die quickly without adequate water. Changes to the grading of your lot can result in substantial water damage to your property and to nearby property. Give careful consideration to the effect of water drainage from walkways, patios, spas, pools, fences, walls, planters, play structures, and room additions. If you make changes to the original grading or drainage you may void your One Year Limited Warranty. If you add or move soil next to your foundation, be sure that the top level of the soil remains six inches or more below the level of finished slab. This will help prevent wood rot and insect infestation. Provide ample room for tree roots to grow. Roots from trees and large growing shrubs can crack and uplift foundations, walks, patios, and driveways. Patios Patios and other structures that you add to your home are your responsibility. Check with building officials and your homeowners association, (if applicable), to make certain that your plans comply with local building codes and CC&R s, (if applicable). It is likely that permits will be required. A licensed contractor is best qualified to perform this work.