Residential Property Basics And Construction Processes

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY BASICS AND CONSTRUCTION PROCESSES Accessibility - ANSWER-Ease of access and movement within a building. Adaptability - ANSWER-Design concept allowing changes for evolving needs. Additions - ANSWER-Expands the size of the existing property by increasing overall living space. Aging in Place - ANSWER-Living in the same residence throughout life stages. Air Purification Systems - ANSWER-Remove contaminants to improve indoor air quality. Alberta Building Code (ABC) - ANSWER-Legislation for construction specifications in Alberta. Aluminum Siding - ANSWER-Durable pre-manufactured exterior finish option. Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) - ANSWER-Measures heating system fuel efficiency annually. Approval with Conditions - ANSWER-Regulatory approval with specific operational conditions. Asbestos - ANSWER-Fibrous minerals causing health risks when airborne. Asphalt shingles - ANSWER-Common roofing material made from tar and gravel. Assigned Parking Stall - ANSWER-Not delineated (not illustrated) and goes with the unit when sold, must be described in the purchase contract. Assigned Storage - ANSWER-Not delineated (not illustrated) and goes with the unit when sold, must be described in the purchase contracts. Assigned Storage Areas - ANSWER-Part of the common property, owned collectively by the condominium corporation, and responsibility for care and maintenance typically remains with the Board of Directors. Awning Windows - ANSWER-Top-hinged windows that open outward. Back-to-front Grading - ANSWER-High point at back, water flows forward. Barrier-free Design - ANSWER-Design features that eliminate physical obstacles. Bay Windows - ANSWER-Windows with angled sides for a beveled look. Beams - ANSWER-Structural members supporting joists in floors. Benefits of Obtaining Building Permits - ANSWER-Includes thorough review, inspection, record of compliance, insurance assistance, and resale facilitation. Blocking - ANSWER-Reinforcement technique for joists' structural integrity. Blower Door Test - ANSWER-Measures air leakage in energy audits. Bow Windows - ANSWER-Rounded windows for a smooth appearance. Box Windows - ANSWER-Flat-front windows with parallel sides. Brick veneer - ANSWER-Layer of brick applied to wood frame walls. Bridging - ANSWER-Securing materials between joists for stability. Building Envelope - ANSWER-Encloses structure, protects from elements. Building Envelope System - ANSWER-Separates internal and external building environments. Building Foundation - ANSWER-Base supporting entire structure, below ground level. Building Lot - ANSWER-Includes grading, landscaping, and exterior components. Building Permits - ANSWER-Required for construction of new buildings; valid for one year. Building Permits for Renovations - ANSWER-Required for any further construction related to the property after initial construction. Building Service Systems - ANSWER-Essential services like heat and electricity. Building Structural System - ANSWER-Provides strength and rigidity to the building. Building Substructure - ANSWER-Below grade construction of the foundation. Building Superstructure - ANSWER-Above grade construction including walls and roof. Built Green - ANSWER-Canada-wide program promoting eco-friendly construction. Buyer Clients - ANSWER-Considerations include asking about financial qualification. Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012) - ANSWER-Mandates environmental assessments for federal projects. Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) - ANSWER-Federal law for pollution prevention and health protection. Carbon Filtration - ANSWER-Uses porous carbon to absorb contaminants. Carbon Monoxide - ANSWER-Tasteless gas reducing blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. Carbon Monoxide Detectors - ANSWER-Detect toxic gas and warn occupants. Casement Windows - ANSWER-Hinged windows that open outward with a crank. Cast Iron Piping - ANSWER-Grey iron tubes used before 1960s, uncoated. Cathedral Ceilings - ANSWER-Equal slopes following roof pitch. Cement Block - ANSWER-Hollow blocks layered with mortar for strength. Cement-based stucco - ANSWER-Traditional stucco made from cement mixtures. Central Vacuum Systems - ANSWER-Built-in systems for removing dirt and debris. Chattel Property - ANSWER-Property not affixed to real property. Cleanout - ANSWER-Access point for cleaning waste pipes. Clerestory Windows - ANSWER-High windows above eye level for light. Client Needing Adaptable Housing - ANSWER-Buyers requiring designs for changing family needs. Coal - ANSWER-Fossil fuel with significant air quality impact. Compliance - ANSWER-Ensures project adheres to approval conditions. Condominium Plan - ANSWER-A document that outlines the storage arrangement of a unit. Conduction - ANSWER-Heat transfer through direct contact between materials. Contaminant - ANSWER-Hazardous substance causing significant adverse effects. Contamination Testing - ANSWER-Analyzes samples to determine contamination presence. Convection - ANSWER-Heat transfer via movement of air or liquid. Copper Piping - ANSWER-Common post-galvanized steel, soldered joints. Crawl Space - ANSWER-Low ceiling, not suitable for habitation. Damp Proofing - ANSWER-Thin coating reducing water vapor passage. Demising Wall - ANSWER-Non-load-bearing wall separating interior spaces. Developer Warranty Programs - ANSWER-1-year warranty on materials and workmanship starting when the buyer takes possession. Development Permits - ANSWER-Authorizes the location, size, and use of building for new subdivisions. Dormer Windows - ANSWER-Small roof extensions with built-in windows. Downspouts - ANSWER-Direct water from gutters to drains or ground. Drain Tiles - ANSWER-Perforated piping for subsurface drainage. Drain-Waste-Vent System - ANSWER-Removes wastewater from a building. Drainage Swales - ANSWER-Shallow conduits for directing surface water. Drywall - ANSWER-Most common interior wall finish today. Durability - ANSWER-Ability of materials to withstand wear and tear. Eaves - ANSWER-Overhanging edges of a roof protecting walls. Eco Logo™ Label - ANSWER-Certification for environmentally friendly building products. Economic Considerations - ANSWER-Profitability and resource management in sustainability. Electric and Magnetic Fields - ANSWER-Invisible forces from electrical equipment, debated health impacts. Electric Heating Systems - ANSWER-Baseboard heaters counteract cold air from windows. Electric Meter - ANSWER-Measures electricity usage at service connection. Electrical Outlets - ANSWER-Points for connecting devices to electrical wiring. Electrical System - ANSWER-Distributes electricity to fixtures and appliances. Electricity - ANSWER-Generated from various sources, converted to heat. Elevators - ANSWER-Installations for easy access in multi-level residences. Energise Label - ANSWER-Standardized energy consumption information for products. Energy Audit - ANSWER-Assessment of energy use and loss in buildings. Energy Efficiency Act - ANSWER-Regulates minimum energy performance for products. Energy Performance - ANSWER-Efficiency of a building's energy use. ENERGY STAR® Label - ANSWER-Symbol for energy-efficient products. Entry Doors - ANSWER-Single-width, solid doors that swing inward. Environmental Awareness - ANSWER-The recognition of environmental hazards that may exist with a property and their impact on property values. Environmental Considerations - ANSWER-Factors like pollution prevention and biodiversity. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) - ANSWER-Evaluates environmental effects of proposed projects. Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) - ANSWER-Promotes environmental protection and sustainable use. Environmental Responsibility - ANSWER-Sustainability practices in building construction. Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) - ANSWER-Process to determine property contamination levels. Environmental Site Assessment Repository (ESAR) - ANSWER-Database for environment-related property information. Exclusive Use Parking Stall - ANSWER-Delineated as dashed lines ( ----- ) or may not be differentiated from the common property (not illustrated) and goes with the unit when sold, must be described in the purchase contract. Exclusive Use Storage - ANSWER-Delineated as dashed lines ( ---- ) or may not be differentiated from the common property (not illustrated) and goes with the unit when sold, must be described in the purchase contract. Exclusive Use Storage Areas - ANSWER-Part of the common property, owned collectively by the condominium corporation, and responsibility for care and maintenance is delegated to the applicable unit owner. Extended Warranty Certificate - ANSWER-Facilitates the transfer of extended warranty into the buyer's name if available. Extended Warranty Programs - ANSWER-Provide 10-year protection against structural defects and additional coverages from one to five years. Exterior Doors - ANSWER-Doors allowing entry and exit from a building. Exterior Walls - ANSWER-Protect interior from elements, support structure. Factory-built Construction - ANSWER-Construction completed in a factory before site assembly. Fascia - ANSWER-Board trimming roof edges, exposed to weather. Fire Sprinklers - ANSWER-Activate to extinguish fires in residences. Fixture - ANSWER-Property permanently attached to real property. Flashing - ANSWER-Weatherproof seal around roof protrusions. Flat Ceilings - ANSWER-Common ceilings installed under floor or roof. Flexible Floor Plans - ANSWER-Designs allowing reconfiguration of interior spaces. Flexible Plastic Piping - ANSWER-PEX piping, fewer fittings, used in heating. Floor Finishes - ANSWER-Includes carpeting, wood, tile, and resilient types. Flushing Urinals - ANSWER-Water-efficient toilets designed to reduce water usage. Forced Air Heating - ANSWER-Uses a furnace and ducts to distribute heat. Framing - ANSWER-Fitting pieces together for structural support. French Doors - ANSWER-Two glass doors that swing inward together. Fresh Water Supply - ANSWER-Municipal water entry point into a building. Friable Asbestos - ANSWER-Asbestos that breaks into airborne fibers. Front-to-back Grading - ANSWER-High point at front, drains water backward. Full Basement - ANSWER-Habitable space with adequate ceiling height. Galvanized Steel Piping - ANSWER-Popular until 1955, prone to rust. Garden Doors - ANSWER-Two-panel doors with one glass and one fixed panel. Geothermal Energy - ANSWER-Heat sourced from beneath the Earth's surface. Glare - ANSWER-Excessive light that causes visual discomfort. Green Roof - ANSWER-Roof covered with vegetation for environmental benefits. Greenwashing - ANSWER-Misleading claims about environmental benefits of products. Growing Medium - ANSWER-Soil or substrate used in green roofs for plant growth. Gutters - ANSWER-Channels collecting water runoff from roofs. Heat Detectors - ANSWER-Detect heat from fires, alert occupants. Heat Pumps - ANSWER-Transfer heat, energy efficient and economical. Heating System - ANSWER-Generates and distributes heat in buildings. Heritage Resale Properties - ANSWER-Much older properties with architectural interest. Home Inspection Business Regulation - ANSWER-Sets requirements for residential property inspectors. Hot Water Heating Systems - ANSWER-Uses hot water or steam for heating. Hot Water Supply - ANSWER-System delivering hot water throughout the residence. Humidifiers - ANSWER-Increase indoor humidity via fine mist. Hung Windows - ANSWER-Vertical windows that slide up and down. HVAC - ANSWER-Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. HVAC System - ANSWER-Controls indoor climate for comfort. Indoor Air Quality - ANSWER-Measure of air cleanliness and safety indoors. Inspection Contract Requirements - ANSWER-Details necessary information for inspection agreements. Interior Building Features - ANSWER-Includes walls, finishes, fixtures inside structure. Interior Walls Functions - ANSWER-Support, differentiate spaces, accommodate systems. Interviews - ANSWER-Gather information from individuals about property use. Joists - ANSWER-Lumber or composites supporting floors or ceilings. Labels (WHMIS) - ANSWER-Provide basic safety information for hazardous products. Lead - ANSWER-Heavy metal linked to serious health risks. Lead Piping - ANSWER-Flexible pipes used before 1960, toxic now. Lead-based Paint - ANSWER-Health risk when deteriorating, not hazardous if intact. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) - ANSWER-Evaluates environmental impact from raw material to disposal. Lifts - ANSWER-Interior devices for accessing different building levels. Light Clutter - ANSWER-Overly bright and excessive groupings of ineffective light sources. Light Pollution - ANSWER-The use of excessive and inappropriate artificial lighting to illuminate natural darkness. Light Trespass - ANSWER-The unintended or unwanted artificial illumination of an area. Load-bearing walls - ANSWER-Support structure and divide interior spaces. Lot Grading - ANSWER-Adjusts land elevation for proper drainage. Lot Grading Certificate - ANSWER-Shows water drainage and elevation comparisons. Low-slope roofs - ANSWER-Roofs with slope equal to or less than 14 degrees. Manual Thermostats - ANSWER-Require manual adjustment for temperature changes. Manufactured Construction - ANSWER-Sections 95% complete upon leaving the factory. Metal roofs - ANSWER-Durable roofing made from various metals. Metal Studs - ANSWER-Steel studs that do not shrink or split. Modular Construction - ANSWER-Three-dimensional units combined to create buildings. Modular Home - ANSWER-Permanently attached home treated as real estate. Mould - ANSWER-Fungi thriving in moist environments, can be harmful. MSDSs - ANSWER-Technical data sheets detailing product hazards. Natural Gas - ANSWER-Clean-burning fossil fuel for heating. New Home Warranty Programs - ANSWER-Assurance from the builder that the new home is reliable and free of known defects. New Home Warranty Registry - ANSWER-An online registry maintained by the Government of Alberta for warranty coverage verification. New Residential Properties - ANSWER-Properties never occupied or under construction with permits. Newer Resale Properties - ANSWER-Properties generally less than 10 years old. Noise Pollution - ANSWER-Any sound an individual deems undesirable. Non-load bearing walls - ANSWER-Divide spaces without structural support. Occupancy Permits - ANSWER-Must be secured before the residence is approved for occupation. Odour Pollution - ANSWER-The presence of distinct and usually unpleasant scents in the environment. Oil - ANSWER-Fossil fuel for furnaces, environmental concerns. Oil Storage - ANSWER-Stored onsite in above ground tanks. Older Resale Properties - ANSWER-Properties generally more than 10 years old. Operable Windows - ANSWER-Windows that can be opened for ventilation. Panelized Construction - ANSWER-Prefabricated panels assembled on-site. Parging - ANSWER-Thin topcoat for exterior foundation finish. Patio Doors - ANSWER-Glass doors for auxiliary access to buildings. Permit Regulation - ANSWER-Permits are documents giving the applicant the authority to proceed with specified work. Phase I ESA - ANSWER-Initial inquiry to suspect contamination on a property. Phase II ESA - ANSWER-Scientific testing to confirm contamination presence. Phase III ESA - ANSWER-Further testing and remediation planning for contamination. Plaster - ANSWER-Gypsum mix used for decorative interior finishes. Plastic shingles - ANSWER-Lightweight, impact-resistant shingles from recycled plastic. Poured Concrete - ANSWER-Concrete mix poured into molds for foundations. Preserved Wood - ANSWER-Treated lumber used for load-bearing walls. Programmable Thermostats - ANSWER-Automatically adjust temperature throughout the day. Propane - ANSWER-Flammable gas, added scent for safety. Property Age - ANSWER-Determine property age and age preference(s). Property Features - ANSWER-Recognize property features and determine property features preference(s). Property Inspection Contracts - ANSWER-Documents outlining inspection details and responsibilities. Property Inspection Reports - ANSWER-Written summary of inspection findings and recommendations. Property Inspections - ANSWER-Assessments of property conditions before purchase or sale. Property Inspectors - ANSWER-Professionals knowledgeable in building systems and safety. Property Location - ANSWER-Determine the property location and preferred location(s). Property Size - ANSWER-Measure overall property size and determine need for specific property size. Property Style - ANSWER-Identify property style and determine property style preference(s). Property Type - ANSWER-Identify property type and determine property type preference(s). Public Interest Decision - ANSWER-Regulatory board's assessment of project benefits. R-Value - ANSWER-Measure of insulation's resistance to heat transfer. R2000 Standard - ANSWER-Voluntary insulation standard for new homes in Canada. Radiant Heating Systems - ANSWER-Heats through pipes in concrete floors. Radiation - ANSWER-Heat transfer through space via heat waves. Radon - ANSWER-Radioactive gas accumulating in enclosed spaces. Ramps - ANSWER-Provide access for individuals with mobility concerns. Records Review - ANSWER-Research property history for contamination information. Reduce (Water Efficiency) - ANSWER-Promotes awareness and reduction of water use. Remediation Certificates - ANSWER-Assurance of effective cleanup of contamination. Remediation Plan - ANSWER-Strategy for addressing identified contamination. Rented Parking Stall - ANSWER-Not delineated and does not go with the unit when sold; they remain the property of the corporation or the other unit owner. Rented Storage - ANSWER-Not delineated and does not go with the unit when sold; they remain the property of the corporation or the other unit owner. Repair - ANSWER-Immediate fix of leaks to reduce water wastage. Repair (Water Efficiency) - ANSWER-Fixing leaks to prevent water wastage. Resale Residential Properties - ANSWER-Existing properties already constructed and occupied. Resource Efficiency - ANSWER-Optimal use of energy and water in construction. Retrofit (Water Efficiency) - ANSWER-Replacing fixtures with water-saving models. Return on Investment - ANSWER-Financial gain from sustainable building practices. Reverse Osmosis - ANSWER-Uses semipermeable membrane to filter impurities. Rigid Plastic Piping - ANSWER-Current common piping, uses ABS and PVC. Risk Assessment - ANSWER-Estimate human/environmental exposure to contamination. Roof tiles - ANSWER-Concrete or clay tiles with a membrane layer. Root Repellant System - ANSWER-Prevents plant roots from damaging roofing materials. RSI Value - ANSWER-Metric equivalent of R-value for insulation. Rubber shingles - ANSWER-Lightweight shingles made from recycled rubber. Security Systems - ANSWER-Protect buildings by detecting irregular activity. Seller Clients - ANSWER-Considerations include property valuation and discussing list price. Service Panel - ANSWER-Main panel distributing electricity within a building. Site Visit - ANSWER-Visual inspection of property for contamination signs. Site-built Construction - ANSWER-On-site construction using transported materials and labor. Skylights - ANSWER-Windows installed in the roof for light. Slab Foundation - ANSWER-Concrete slab poured at grade level. Sliding Doors - ANSWER-Double glass doors that glide horizontally. Sliding Windows - ANSWER-Horizontal windows that glide along tracks. Sloped Ceilings - ANSWER-Create open space and allow natural light. Smoke Detectors - ANSWER-Detect smoke and alert occupants audibly. Social Considerations - ANSWER-Focus on equality and human rights in sustainability. Social Impact - ANSWER-Effects of building materials on local communities. Soffits - ANSWER-Underside of eaves providing aesthetic and ventilation. Solar Energy - ANSWER-Renewable energy from sunlight, non-toxic production. Solar Energy Systems - ANSWER-Uses sunlight to generate renewable electricity. Solar Panels - ANSWER-Collect sunlight, can move for optimal angle. Solar Shingles - ANSWER-Roof shingles generating electricity, protective. Split Grading - ANSWER-Building as high point, water flows both ways. Stages of EIA - ANSWER-Includes necessity, terms of reference, and review. Steep-slope roofs - ANSWER-Roofs with slope of 15 degrees or greater. Stone veneer - ANSWER-Layer of stone applied to wood frame walls. Stucco - ANSWER-Continuous exterior coverage, cement or synthetic. Sub-panel - ANSWER-Smaller electrical panel for additional distribution. Subfloor - ANSWER-Surface laid on joists for flooring installation. Subsequent Building Permits - ANSWER-Required for changes to existing buildings. Sump Pump - ANSWER-Removes water from sump pit in foundation. Surface Drainage - ANSWER-Manages water movement away from buildings. Sustainability - ANSWER-Responsible management of natural resources. Sustainable Building Materials - ANSWER-Environmentally responsible materials throughout their life cycle. Swinging Doors - ANSWER-Framed glass doors that swing inward. Synthetic stucco - ANSWER-Insulating board coated with fiberglass mesh and epoxy. Tar and gravel roofing - ANSWER-Layers of tar paper topped with gravel. Technology Connectivity - ANSWER-Operate systems remotely via wired or wireless access. Technology Convergence - ANSWER-Single device manages multiple household tasks. Thermography Test - ANSWER-Detects heat loss using infrared imaging. Thermostats - ANSWER-Control heating and cooling systems' temperature. Titled Parking Stall - ANSWER-Delineated (illustrated) as solid, bold lines (──) and goes with the unit when sold, must be described in the purchase contract. Titled Storage - ANSWER-Delineated (illustrated) as solid bold lines (──) and goes with the unit when sold, must be described in the purchase contract. Titled Storage Areas - ANSWER-Have their own Certificate of title and are units unto themselves, held in fee simple ownership. Types of Permits - ANSWER-Four types of permits used in the residential construction process. Typical Property Inspection Exclusions - ANSWER-Excludes decorative items and underground storage tanks. Typical Property Inspection Inclusions - ANSWER-Includes roof, walls, plumbing, and electrical systems. Ultraviolet Systems - ANSWER-Sterilize water using UV light. Underground Sprinklers - ANSWER-Automated systems for watering landscapes. Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) - ANSWER-Used to store various products beneath the surface of the ground and could become a health and safety risk if a leak develops. Updating - ANSWER-Improves the appearance of the residence by modernizing its finishes. Upgrading - ANSWER-Improves the functionality of the residence by enhancing existing features. Urban Sky Glow - ANSWER-Light radiating above an inhabited area. Vaulted Ceilings - ANSWER-Follow roofline with unequal slopes. Ventilation Systems - ANSWER-Provide fresh air and control moisture indoors. Vinyl Siding - ANSWER-Pre-manufactured finish, low maintenance exterior. Visitor Parking - ANSWER-Not delineated and is part of the common property of the corporation, used by visitors on a first come, first serve basis. Walk-up Basement - ANSWER-Partially below grade, provides outside access. Walkout Basement - ANSWER-Habitable space with grade-level outside access. Waste Pipes - ANSWER-Pipes transporting wastewater from toilets. Water Act - ANSWER-Regulates water rights and conservation in Alberta. Water Efficiency - ANSWER-Principles to reduce and manage water use. Water Purifiers - ANSWER-Remove contaminants from drinking water. Water Recycling Systems - ANSWER-Reclaim wastewater for environmental conservation. Water Sense® Label - ANSWER-Label for products at least 20% more water efficient. Water Softeners - ANSWER-Remove minerals from hard water using salt. Waterproofing - ANSWER-Prevents water penetration using membranes. Weather-based Irrigation Controllers - ANSWER-Devices that adjust watering based on weather conditions. WHMIS - ANSWER-National system for hazardous material communication. Wood - ANSWER-Traditional fuel, requires carbon monoxide detector. Wood shakes - ANSWER-Split wood with rough surface, irregular shape. Wood shingles - ANSWER-Machine-cut cedar or pine with smooth finish. Wood Siding - ANSWER-Applied over water-impervious material for durability. Wood Studs - ANSWER-Traditional material for framing walls. Worker Education (WHMIS) - ANSWER-Training on safe handling of hazardous materials. Written Report (Phase I) - ANSWER-Document findings and recommendations from Phase I ESA. Written Report (Phase II) - ANSWER-Summarizes contamination findings and recommendations. Xeriscaping - ANSWER-Landscaping with low-water demand plants.