Making the transition from renter to homeowner is certainly exciting, but it can be frightening as well. When you rent your dwelling and something goes wrong, all you need to do is pick up the phone and call the landlord. When you own your own home, you no longer have that luxury. When the toilet backs up at 2 in the morning or the roof starts leaking after a heavy rain, you have to take care of the problem on your own.
If you are new to home ownership, it is important to be prepared for anything and ready to take care of anything that might happen to your new dwelling. You hope that nothing goes wrong, but simply hoping for the best will not fix that leaky roof or fix the broken pipe in your basement.
No matter where you live or what kind of home you own, it is important to compile a list of local service and repair people. Having that list handy and using it when necessary is the best way to stop those little household emergencies from becoming major disasters.
Perhaps the most important number in your homeownership emergency book is the contact information of a local plumber. Look for a plumber that provides 24-hour emergency service, and always check ratings and references before adding the plumber to your list. A personal recommendation is always a good idea when selecting a plumber, so check with your neighbors to see who they have used in the past.
It is also important to have the number of a good electrician in your emergency kit. An electrical problem can put the safety of your family at risk, and knowing whom to turn to in times of trouble will give you real peace of mind. Again, it is important to look for a company that provides emergency service any time of the night or day.
You will also want to have the phone number of a good roofing contractor, especially if your home is an older one. You never know when a roof leak will start, and stopping it fast is the best way to stop the damage from spreading and putting your home at risk. Again, it is a good idea to ask your new neighbors for recommendations, and you should of course check references carefully.
Being a homeowner is a great way to live your own American dream, but it is important to recognize the responsibility of home ownership as well as its many benefits. Compiling a list of local contractors is your best defense against unforeseen problems, and the sooner you create that list the sooner you can start sleeping soundly in your brand new home.
