MADISON BUILDERS, INC.

P.O. Box 331 Winchester, Virginia 22604

The following warranty guidelines are intended to specify the performance standards for construction of homes by Madison Builders and set forth the basis for determining the validity of all home buyers’ complaints relative to defective materials and workmanship during the applicable warranty period under Madison Builders Limited Warranty Agreement.

Only the most frequent areas of concern to the homebuyer have been enumerated in these guidelines.  The structural, mechanical plumbing and electrical standards shall be those contained in the Building Code, Mechanical-Plumbing Code and Electrical Code of the governmental entity having jurisdiction of and regulating the subject construction.  Inspection by governmental jurisdiction will provide evidence of compliance.

To the extent that minimum performance standards for construction have not been enumerated in these guidelines, defects and deficiencies in materials and workmanship will be those recognized under generally accepted standards of the building industry in Virginia which assure quality of materials and workmanship.  This general standard shall be used to determine the validity of any buyers’ complaints for defects and deficiencies for which a specific standard has not been enumerated herein.

MADISON BUILDERS and its suppliers warrant your home and its equipment against defective materials and workmanship for a one (1) year period following closing and/or occupancy.  This Warranty does not extend up to the product warranty of the manufacturer’s warranty.  This Warranty does not cover ordinary wear and tear, abuse, neglect or general maintenance connected with home ownership.

Similarly, contractors will perform Homeowner work requests only upon written instructions from Madison Builders.  The contractor has 21 days to complete the service order.  ANY WORK PERFORMED BY A CONTRACTOR WITHOUT THE WRITTEN APPROVAL OF MADISON BUILDERS WILL BE AT THE HOMEOWNER’S EXPENSE.

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS ARE ACCEPTED FROM THIS POLICY.  Emergency, as defined by the Customer Service Department, includes severe plumbing problems, no heat in cold weather, or any potentially hazardous condition.

The homeowner is provided with manufacturer’s literature on consumer products installed in the home.  The lack of any such material should be reported to Madison Builders so that they can be obtained.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE OF THE HOME IS THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.  THIS INCLUDES APPRISING THEMSELVES OF RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES FOR USING AND MAINTAINING ALL COMPONENTS OF THE HOUSE.

“Homeowner Hints” on maintenance have been included for several items discussed in these guidelines.  For example, grout for showers, settling of backfill and furnace filters.  Please review each category carefully.  Negligence of normal maintenance items can void the warranty on the item involved.

Final walk-thru list must be filled out upon completion of home, after final inspection and before move-in.  A reasonable time should be allowed for correction of final walk-thru list prior to move-in.

SERVICE HINTS

HELP US SERVE YOU BETTER BY USING THE APPROPRIATE PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING PROBLEMS.

(A)             Emergency Service. Emergencies include no heat in winter, severe plumbing problems, hazardous electrical problems or any situation that endangers the occupants or the home.  During business hours, call Customer Service at 540-723-9868.  After hours, weekends, or holidays, call the necessary contractor directly.  Their phone numbers are listed in your Customer Information package.

(B)              NON-EMERGENCY ITEMS for which you request service MUST BE REPORTED IN WRITING.  WE WILL NOT ACCEPT REPORTS OF ROUTINE WARRANTY ITEMS OVER THE PHONE.

WHEN REPORTING A PROBLEM, INCLUDE COMPLETE INFORMATION:

(1)              NAME, ADDRESS and PHONE NUMBERS, where you can be reached during business hours.

(2)              A complete description of the problem.  For example, “Guest bath-cold water line leaks under sink” NOT, “Plumbing problem in bathroom”.

IF AN INSPECTION OF THE ITEMS YOU REPORT IS NECESSARY, A WARRANTY REPRESENTATIVE WILL CONTACT FOR AN APPOINTMENT.

INCLUDE INFORMATION ABOUT SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS THAT SHOULD BE MADE TO GET INTO YOUR HOME TO PERFORM WORK YOU HAVE REQUESTED.

Getting service personnel into your home is one of the most time-consuming aspects of warranty work.  Please be specific about day and/or time when you will be home.  If you are not available or at home during the times you have indicated, we will not be able to perform the work.  You may have to later pay to have the work done.

We will be happy to discuss any questions you have on any decision we make regarding warranty action you requested.

IF A WARRANTY ACTION WE PROVIDE IS NOT SATISFACTORY, CALL THE CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT 540-723-9868.

HEATING

Expansion or contraction of metal ductwork will typically result in some ticking or popping sounds.  It is not possible to eliminate these sounds.

FURNACE FILTERS SHOULD BE CHANGED OR CLEANED ONCE EVERY THREE MONTHS TO ENSURE MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY AND CLEAN SERVICE.  THIS IS THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

HINTS:

    A clogged filter can slow airflow, cause cold spots in your home, and/or cause the breaker to trip.  This is one of the most frequently overlooked details of Homeowner’s furnace care.  Madison Builders suggests you buy filters in a large quantity for the sake of convenience.

HAVE A TRIAL RUN early in the fall to test the furnace.  (The same applies to A/C in the spring).  If service is needed, it is best to discover it prior to the heating season getting underway.

(1)              THERMOSTAT SETTING: On the models with air conditioning, the system switch must be on “HEAT” and the fan switch should be on “AUTO”.    THERMOSTAT SETTING:   WINTER:   68-72 degrees, SUMMER:  74-78 degrees.

(2)              Electric Breaker: A tripped breaker must be turned all the way off then back on to reset.

AIR CONDITIONING

Lack of air conditioning service is not an emergency.  Problems will be handled by the Heating/Air Conditioning Contractor as quickly as possible, in the order received.  During the “busy season”, this may mean a wait of one week.

HINTS:

Your home air conditioning service is a closed system, which means that the interior air is continually recycled and cooled until the desire temperature is reached.  Warm outside air disrupts the system and makes cooling impossible.  Therefore, you MUST KEEP ALL WINDOWS CLOSED.  The heat from the sun through the windows with open drapes is intense enough to overcome the cooling effect of the air conditioning unit.

IF A HUMIDIFIER IS INSTALLED on the furnace system, it should be turned off when using air conditioning.  Otherwise, the additional moisture could cause a “freeze up” of the cooling system.
 

PLUMBING

All drains and sewer lines should operate freely.  Obstructions resulting from construction debris will be corrected by Madison Builders.  Obstructions shown to be the result of Homeowner action will be corrected at Homeowner’s expense.  MADISON BUILDERS IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY COMMODE ADJUSTMENTS.  To avoid clogged toilets, only flush toilet paper.

Madison Builders will repair leaks in the plumbing system.  A plumbing leak caused by a warranted item which results in drywall or floor covering damage will be repaired by Madison Builders.  NO ADJUSTMENTS WILL BE MADE FOR SECONDARY DAMAGES (i.e., WALLPAPER, DRAPES, PERSONAL BELONGINGS, ETC.)  HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE SHOULD COVER THESE.

Care should be taken when adjusting thermostat on water heater.  Pop-off valve will release if temperature is set too high.

Provided the home is heated at a normal level, pipes should not freeze.  Heat should be set at 65 degrees when you are away during the winter months.  Garage doors should be kept closed to protect plumbing lines which may run through this area.

OUTSIDE FAUCETS MUST HAVE HOSES REMOVED AFTER EACH USE DURING WINTER MONTHS.  Madison Builders will repair any problems with these faucets noted on the final walk-thru list.  SUBSEQUENT TO FINAL WALK-THRU, ANY REPAIRS WILL BE THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

SHUT FOUNDATION VENTS IN WINTER TO AVOID FREEZING PIPES. 

OPEN VENTS IN THE SPRING TO ACCESS VENTILATION.

HINTS:

Clogged Lines.  Many plumbing clogs are caused by an improper garbage disposal.  Always use plenty of cold water when running the disposal.  Allow the water to run 10-15 seconds after shutting the disposal off.  For best results: DO NOT put peelings of fruit, vegetables, etc. into disposal.  This will result in clogging.

COLD WEATHER/TRAVEL

During cold weather, please follow the appropriate procedures to help in preventing water pipes from freezing.  These procedures are important especially if you plan on being out of town for a long period of time.

(1)              Set the heat no lower than 65 degrees.

(2)              Have a neighbor or relative check your home at regular intervals to make sure your furnace is running.  If a problem occurs, Public Service or Heating Company should be called immediately.

BEFORE LEAVING TOWN YOU SHOULD:

(1)     Turn on sink, vanity faucets and showerhead to about half flow, both hot and cold.

(2)              Turn off the main water valve.

(3)              Leave all faucets and shower levers on so that the lines are relieved for pressure; flush all toilets.  This procedure will allow the water to drain out of most of the pipes.  In the case of freezing, water would not keep flowing causing damage.

(4)              Open all outside faucets, let them drain, and then close them again.

(5)              DO NOT DO ANYTHING WITH THE HOT WATER HEATER!

TO TURN WATER BACK ON YOU SHOULD:

(1)     Go to the basement or the closet containing the water heater and turn water on.  Allow the water to run through faucets and shower heads a couple of minutes to get the air out of the lines.  Shut off all faucets and toilets should fill up.

(2)              If you have a faucet, showerhead or toilet that does not have water coming through, it is possible a line could be frozen where water is sitting.  In this case:

(A)             Call a plumber or contractor to have someone thaw out the pipe(s).  Never let a frozen pipe go any longer than you have to.  If it thaws while you are at work, YOU COULD COME TO A MESS!
 

(B)              If you thaw out your own pipes, please use a hair dryer on the pipe(s).  NEVER use a torch as a possible fire in the wood or insulation could result.  You could also burn through electrical wiring.

If you do not leave town, but think water going through pipes that are located on the outside walls of your home for the tub, toilet, or shower might freeze—let the water run very slowly, especially overnight, to help prevent freezing.  Another preventative measure is to leave cabinet doors open to allow heat to get to pipes at the back of cabinets.

ELECTRICAL

If electrical outlets, switches or fixtures do not function as intended, Madison Builders will repair or replace them. Any electrical wiring that fails to carry its designed load will be repaired to meet specifications.  All wiring is to code and has already been inspected and approved by the Local Building Official.

Light fixtures are installed in the locations indicated by Madison Builders and will not be moved by Madison Builders.  Hanging fixtures are installed within chain, as delivered.  Homeowner will be responsible for adjusting the length, if not satisfactory.  Homeowner is responsible for placing any burned out bulbs.  Fixtures which are noted as damaged on the final walk-thru list will be repaired or replaced.  There is no warranty on fixtures purchased at a discount or supplied by the homeowner from a previous house.

GFI RECEPTACLES (ground fault interrupter) is required by The National Electrical Code as a safety feature.  The use of these units is to provide the best protection against electrical shock.  This protection is directed at the wet locations in and outside your home.  Their use is required in all bathrooms, kitchen, laundry area, and wet bar, all within six (6) feet of a water source such as sink, laundry tub and bathtub.  These are also required in the garage (except for a dedicated freezer circuit).  (Extra) All exterior Receptacles are also included in this.

Example: unfinished basement areas.  A test/reset button on the face of the Receptacle identifies the units.  The GFI Receptacle is wired so one GFI can and will, in many cases, control other receptacles.

TROUBLE SHOOTING:

EXAMPLE 1: Outside Weather Proof Receptacles does not work.  Check a nearby bath, garage or kitchen GFI and push the reset button.

EXAMPLE 2: Receptacle in the kitchen does not work.  Check the kitchen counter receptacle near the one that is not working.  Push the reset button.

EXAMPLE 3: Whirlpool does not appear to have power.  Go to the electric panel.  You will find a label Whirlpool.  Push the breaker-reset button.

EXAMPLE 4: Bath area: Light over the shower will not work.  Possibly the bath fan will not work as well.  Check the GFI Receptacle on the lavatory.  Push the reset, if the bathroom that you are in does not have a GFI Receptacle, check the adjacent bath.  A bath will not be on the kitchen circuit.

PLEASE NOTE: If a GFI Receptacle or Breaker fails to test, there is a problem with the circuit.  If there has been severe weather, there may be moisture in one of the exterior Receptacles on the exterior of your home.  If the Receptacle is on this circuit, it will not reset.  Check the weatherproof cover and make sure all moisture is removed.  Try to reset the GFI again.  DO NOT plug motors such as Refrigeration Equipment into GFI Receptacles.  When the motor cuts on, it may trip the GFI: RESULT: Damaged foods, the most common place for this are the garage or basement.

If you have an electrical problem, and you don’t find a GFI off, light bulb blown out, or a simple reason why your electrical system is not working properly, call a qualified licensed Electrical Contractor.

INSULATION

Insulation will be installed in accordance with those building codes applicable at the time of construction, which include exterior walls, overhangs, ceilings, crawl spaces, etc.  This is to code and has already been approved by the local building officials.

DRYWALL

Some slight cracking, nail pops and drywall seams may become visible in walls and ceilings.  These occurrences are normally caused by shrinkage of the wood to which the drywall is attached. IT WILL NOT BE WARRANTIED.

If the drywall repair is the result of a plumbing leak or other warranty-based repair, Madison Builders will assume the cost of repainting the area of drywall.  RESTORING CUSTOMER’S PAINT COLORS OR WALLPAPER IS A HOMEOWNER RESPONSIBILITY.
 

PAINTING/STAIN

Madison Builders will touch-up paint only as indicated on the final walk-thru list.  Paint touch-ups are sometimes visible under certain lighting conditions and type of paint.

STAIN: Due to wood characteristics, color variation will result when a stain is applied.  There will be no repair or replacements on such variations.

HINTS:

When doing paint touch-up with enamel, use a small brush, applying paint only to the damage spot.  However, make sure you prime the spot first with flat paint, and then touch-up with your enamel.  Enamel touch-up will be shinier than the surrounding area.

For stain touch-ups, Old English Furniture Polish and Scratch Cover is inexpensive, easy to use, and blends in with the wood grain.  Follow directions on the bottle when using.

CAULKING:   Caulking will shrink and crack due to hot and cold weather and contraction and expansion of wood.  This is a normal characteristic of the products combined and is considered homeowner maintenance because it constantly occurs and cannot be prevented.

Fading of exterior paint can be expected due to the effects of sun and weather.

Wood trim will develop some minor cracks and raised grain as it ages and dries.  Much of this will occur during the first year.  Raised grain can result in peeling paint; however, this is not due to a defect in materials or workmanship.  PAINT MAINTENANCE OF WOOD TRIM IS A HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.  Wood trim painted white or light colors will more readily show grain and cracks and will therefore require additional maintenance.
 

WINDOWS/SCREENS

Broken or scratched windows or damaged screens noted on the final walk-thru list will be replaced.  Windows should operate with reasonable ease and locks should perform as designed.
 

Condensation on interior surfaces of the window and the frame is the result of high humidity within the home on low outside temperatures.  The humidity level within the home is controlled by the owner and requires no corrective action by Madison Builders (Homeowners with humidifiers should closely observe manufacturer’s directions especially during extremely cold time periods).

WOOD TRIM

Minor imperfections may be visible.  Madison Builders will correct only those serious defects, i.e., chips, gouges, etc. noted on the final walk-thru list.  Separation of wood trim from the adjacent is a normal result of shrinkage.  A small dimple may result where nailed.  This is due to wood shrinkage.  THIS WILL BE THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

BRASS FIXTURES

To prolong the life of the protective coating and delay the refinishing process to brass fixtures, such as doorknobs and kick plates, apply a non-abrasive, polymer-based automobile wax to new brass.  Wax should be re-applied two or three times a year.  Spray clear lacquer.  THIS IS THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

DOORS

Metals Doors: Significant dents, scratches or other marks noted only on the final walk-thru list will be repaired.  Magnetic weather-stripping on exterior metal doors will mar the paint.  This cannot be prevented. 

Wood Doors:  Due to normal settling of the home, doors may require adjustment for proper fit.  Chips or other damage in the finish, noted on the final walk-thru list, will be repaired.  Doors that warp in excess of 1/4" will be repaired.

Note:   All exterior storm doors installed by homeowners will void Madison Builders warranty for metal or wood exterior doors.
 

HARDWARE

Doorknobs and locks should operate correctly. Dents, chips, scratches, etc., in door hardware towel bars, shower bars, shower doors, medicine cabinets, or mirrors, which are noted on the final walk-thru list, will be repaired.

FLOOR COVERING

Carpet:    Although carpet seams may be visible, no gap or fraying is acceptable.  Edges of carpet against base moldings and along edges of stairs should be held firmly in place.

Stains or spots noted on the final walk-thru list will be corrected by cleaning, patching, or replacement.  MADISON BUILDERS WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DYE LOT VARIATIONS IF REPLACEMENTS ARE MADE.

Hardwood Floors:  Because of climatic conditions, squeaking, swelling and/or shrinkage of hardwood floors are common.  These conditions are the result of a change in moisture content in the wood and are not warranted.

Filing and staining will repair excessive separations occurring between hardwood floor segments.  Wood floors may show nicks, dents and moisture caused by normal wear and tear.

GOUGES OR SCRATCHES NOTED AT THE TIME OF THE FINAL WALK-THRU WILL BE REPAIRED ACCORDING TO MADISON BUILDERS’ STANDARDS.

Vinyl: Any lifting or bubbling of vinyl flooring will be repaired.  In the event that nail pops should appear on the surface of vinyl, these will be repaired.  Cuts and scratches noted on the final walk-thru will be repaired.

IN ANY SITUATION WHICH REQUIRES REPLACEMENT, MADISON BUILDERS WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DISCONTINUED PATTERNS OR COLORS.

Slate & Quarry Tile: Slate and Quarry tile floors will typically have variations in the surface, and when new, small pieces may chip, this is a natural characteristic of the material.  Coloration and streaking are also natural characteristics.

Ceramic Tile: Cracked, badly chipped or loose tiles noted on the final walk-thru list will be repaired or replaced, as needed.  Madison Builders is not responsible for variations in color or discontinued patterns.  New grout may vary in color from original.

Cracks appearing in grouting of ceramic tiles at joints or junctions with other materials are commonly due to normal shrinkage conditions.  Any grouting or caulking that is needed after that time is considered homeowner maintenance.  Madison Builders is not responsible for color variations in grout or discontinued colored grout.

SEALING GROUT IS A HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

CABINETS

Cabinets (drawers, doors, etc.) will operate properly under normal use.  Doors, drawer fronts and handles will be level and even.

Readily noticeable variations in wood grain and color are expected in all style selections.  Replacements will not be made due to such variation.

Only those chips, scratches and other flaws in surfaces which are noted in the final walk-thru list will be repaired.

HINTS:

Products such as Liquid Gold and Old English Furniture Polish and Scratch Cover are recommended for caring for cabinets. Follow container directions.  Your color selection sheets are your record of the brand, style and color of cabinets in your home.

COUNTERTOPS

Separation of countertops at walls and where back splash meets the counter are the result of normal shrinkage of materials.  Separation at the wall or at the counter can be repaired by caulking and WILL BE THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY. It is important to keep moisture from reaching the wood under the Formica to prevent warping.

Laminated Countertops:  Laminated countertops typically will have one or more noticeable seams.  There should be no gap at the seams; however, any major surface imperfections, i.e., chips, cracks, scratches or burns, reported on the final walk-thru list will be repaired.  ANY DAMAGES NOT ON THE FINAL WALK-THRU LIST WILL BE THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

Corian Countertops:  Corian countertops should be installed without chips or gouges.  Edges should be smooth and even.  Where back splash joints occur at corners, the top edges should be even within 1/16".
 

Kitchen appliance manufacturers warrant appliances directly to you.  For most items, this warranty is for one (1) year.  Refer to literature on each appliance for details and limitations.  BE CERTAIN TO MAIL ALL WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARDS.

BE PREPARED TO SUPPLY:

(1)              Date of purchase (closing or move-in date, whichever occurred first)

(2)              Serial and Model Numbers (refer to manual)

(3)              Description of the problem.

CABLE TV AND PHONE PRE-WIRE

Each home is pre-wired with a designated number of outlets for cable TV and telephone.  IT IS THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CONTACT THE CABLE AND TELEPHONE COMPANIES FOR SERVICE CONNECTIONS.

The exact location of the outlet within the room will vary slightly.  Any change in location of TV or phone outlets will be at Homeowner’s expense.

IMPORTANT: When calling Verizon to have your phone hooked up, be sure to tell them your home is new and does not have a box installed.  It is the phone company’s responsibility to install the box.  If you do not tell them, they may not be able to install your phone immediately and may charge for an additional service call.

FIREPLACE

Fireplaces are not intended to be the sole source of heat in the home.  The fireplace should function properly when Madison Builders and/or manufacturer’s directions are followed.  Although winds can result in a downdraft, this condition should be temporary and occasional.  The cause of continuous malfunction will be determined and corrected by Madison Builders.

Discoloration of the firebox or brick is the normal result of use and requires no corrective action.  Masonry style fireplaces may develop cracks due to temperature changes and other factors.  Gas fireplaces are covered under manufacturer’s warranty.

Glass Doors:  Scratched, broken or damaged glass doors when included with the home will be corrected if noted on the final walk-thru list.

NORMAL SHRINKAGE OF MORTAR MAY RESULT IN HAIRLINE CRACKS IN MASONRY.

HINTS:

When not in use the damper and cold air vent should be closed.  Leaving these open is equivalent to having an open window in the house.  If the fire is still burning, but you are finished enjoying it, use glass doors to prevent heated air from being drawn up the chimney until the damper can be closed.  Caution: DO NOT close doors over a roaring fire, especially if you are burning hard woods (oak, hickory, etc.) because this could be result in glass breakage.

The timing on having your chimney cleaned will be determined by the way you use your fireplace and the type of wood you burn. Heavy use of soft woods or improperly seasoned woods will result in frequent cleaning, probably once a year.

CONCRETE

Movement under basement slab can result in cracking.  Concrete cracks!  This is normal and expected.  If such cracks reach 1/4" in width or 1/8" in vertical displacement, MADISON BUILDERS WILL PATCH OR REPAIR ONE TIME DURING THE WARRANTY. SUBSEQUENTLY, FLOOR SLAB MAINTENANCE IS A HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

CONCRETE SLABS ARE NOT REPLACED DUE TO CRACKING, OR UNEVEN, UNLEVEL SLABS.

Excessive settling (1" or more), heaving and/or cracking should be reported in writing so that an inspection can be made. IF THE HOMEOWNER CHANGES GRADING, DRAINAGE OR LANDSCAPING, WHICH CAUSES DAMAGE; CORRECTIVE MEASURES WILL BE THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

Radiator overflows, fertilizer, failure to shovel snow and ice, ice, melting agents, or road salts from vehicles are some of the causes of spalling.  MADISON BUILDERS IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIR OF SPALLING CONCRETE.

In case of oil leak onto concrete driveway, wash with solution.  This can be purchased at any Hardware Store.  THIS IS THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

Foundation Walls: Shrinkage or backfill cracks are not unusual in basements or foundation walls, especially at the corners of basement windows.  Madison Builders will repair, as needed, cracks in excess of 1/8" or any cracks permitting water to enter the basement, provided the homeowners have complied with landscaping requirements.

It is not unusual to see the block get wet or show water stains in basement during excessive rain or wet weather.

If dampness occurs on basement walls, a de-humidifier or some sort of air movement should be used to help keep the humidity level down.

Slight “honeycombing”, cold joints, or imperfections in the foundation walls caused by variations or minor flaws in concrete forms will not be repaired.

Dampness may be experienced in crawl space.  However, correctly installed landscaping will prevent excessive amounts of water from entering crawl spaces.  Standing water should be reported to Madison Builders for inspection and action.

ROOF

Spaces between shake shingles are required by code and some flashing will be visible.  Madison Builders will repair roof leaks other than those caused by severe weather, such as hail damage.  Such repairs are only made when the roof is dry.

HINTS:

Ice build-up may develop in the eaves during extended periods of cold and snow.  Damage that results from this is normally covered by homeowner insurance and is not a Madison Builders’ responsibility.

GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS

          It is necessary that the gutters be kept clear of debris that might clog them and cause the water to run over the sides instead of through the downspouts.  Homeowner should check gutters and downspouts periodically to ensure proper functioning: excess snow should be removed with a broom as soon as possible.  Severe ice and snow build-up can damage gutters.  THIS IS NOT A WARRANTED PROBLEM AND REPAIRS ARE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

SIDING

Wood Siding and Trim Boards:  During the “drying out process” of wood siding and trim, some shrinkage should be expected.  However, if gaps in excess of 1/4" or loose knots appear, Madison Builders will caulk and apply touch-up paint or stain.

Damaged trim boards and/or shutters noted on final walk-thru list will be corrected.

Because of effects of weather on natural wood, you should expect raised grain in some of the boards used in trimming your home.  This is normal and not a defect in the wood or paint.  Wood trim painted white or light colors will more readily show grain and cracks and will therefore require additional maintenance.

Vinyl Siding: To allow for natural expansion and contraction, vinyl siding is installed with slight gaps between sections.  Slight waving and rattling may be seen or heard under certain weather conditions.  MADISON BUILDERS WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THESE NATURAL CHARACTERISTICS.  To clean your siding, use a brush and 409 cleaner.  THIS IS A HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.

GARAGE OVERHEAD DOORS

The garage door will operate smoothly and with reasonable ease.  The door can misalign and requirement adjustments, which Madison Builders will provide.

HOWEVER, ELECTRIC GARAGE DOOR OPENERS CAN BE CAUSE FOR THIS MISALIGNMENT, AND NO ADJUSTMENT WILL BE MADE IF THE HOMEOWNER HAS INSTALLED AN OPENER SUBSEQUENT TO THE PURCHASE OF THE HOME.

Garage overhead doors cannot be airtight and typically some light will be visible around the edges and across the top of the door.  Dents on garage overhead doors noted on walk-thru list will be repaired.  Touch-up paint may not match exactly.

DRAINAGE

The final grade is established as a part of an overall plan.  The site is surveyed at several points in the grading process to ensure adherence to the specifications.  The primary concern is to establish drainage from the home.

In most cases, drainage swales DO NOT follow property boundaries.  Madison Builders WILL NOT alter drainage patterns to suit individual landscaping plans.  Typically, a lot will receive water from and/or pass water onto other lots.  For this reason, homeowner changes in grade often affect those adjacent to or near him.  Madison Builders advises homeowners against making such changes.

Due to weather conditions, especially during winter and early spring, it may happen that the final grade work will continue.  In these circumstances, homeowner should check on the status of his grading prior to beginning his landscaping.

NEW SOD INSTALLATIONS AND THE EXTRA WATERING THAT ACCOMPANIES IT CAN CAUSE TEMPORARY DRAINAGE PROBLEMS, AS CAN SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS.

Madison Builders will inspect problems reported in writing during the one year warranty period and advise homeowner as to corrective actions which he might take.

MAINTENANCE OF POSITIVE DRAINAGE AWAY FROM THE FOUNDATION AND CONCRETE SLABS IS A HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.  Failure to maintain these areas can result in damage to the foundation.  Homeowner should expect some settling of backfill soils.

LANDSCAPING

Lawns:   Lawns are either seeded and strawed or hydro-seeded and parts may be sodded.  High quality seed is used and will produce a lush lawn if properly cared for.  AFTER SEEDING, THE LAWN BECOMES THE HOMEOWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY.  MADISON BUILDERS WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR STRAW THAT BLOWS OFF OF LAWN DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS.

Hints:

Water your new lawn often.  In the fall of the first year, rake lawn thoroughly, re-seed and add organic fertilizer.  Give special attention to bare spots.  Adequate watering is the number one thing a new landscape installation needs.  All newly planted materials should be watered every 2-3 days depending on air temperature.  Hotter days require more watering.  New plants require a “deep watering”, and then a short period to dry out slightly in between watering.  A light shower does not provide this watering.  About 2 inches of rain would have to fall to get a deep watering.

Shrubs and Trees:  All shrubs and trees become the responsibility of the homeowner after closing.  Madison Builders will replace any dead plantings noted on final walk-thru list.

Hints: