Unit 4 : Lesson 1: Protecting and maintaining your home

A checklist for new homeowners

Know your major systems
Ask the previous owner or the person who inspects your home where to find and how to use the following:

___ fuse box or circuit breakers
___ main water cut-off valve
___ hot water heater
___ outside faucets
___ gas supply line
___ furnace
___ air conditioner
___ sump pump (if you have one)
___ smoke alarms
___ storm windows/window screens

Obtain manuals and warranties
Ask the prior owner to give you all manuals and warranties for the following:

___ refrigerator
___ stove
___ furnace
___ hot water heater
___ air conditioner
___ washer
___ dryer

Other appliances:
___ _______________
___ _______________
___ _______________
___ _______________

Local collection services
Ask the previous owner or a neighbor when the following take place:

___ garbage collection
___ recycling collection
___ collection for leaves, yard work, larger items

Utilities
Ask the previous owner or a neighbor for the name, address, and phone number of the utility companies in your area. Or look in the blue pages of your phone book to find them.

___ electricity
___ water
___ gas
___ local telephone
___ long-distance telephone
___ cable

Location of local services
Before you move in, find out the location of some local services you may use, such as:

___ nearest hospital
___ public schools
___ adult education classes
___ library
___ park
___ recreation center
___ pharmacy
___ grocery store
___ public transportation

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