Seal all Gaps in your Homes

Most of us are so busy that we cannot even look after our home/property, so that it remains maintained in a good condition for a long time. During monsoon, we sometimes observe the presence of moisture or patches around the window or even water seepage. This usually happens due to gaps around window frame caused by sealant deterioration1 which is often over looked by a homeowner or resident. Besides, many people may not be knowing about these unfilled gaps, the reason behind it and negative effects. Hence it gets unnoticed and the result is a costlier repair & unwanted hassles.

Let us understand first – What is a Sealant?

A Sealant is a liquid form of material that usually looks, feels, and acts like a gel. Sealant is a substance used to block the passage of fluids through the surface or joints or openings in a material. For better understanding, it is a material that is used to seal the joints between materials such as concrete, aluminum etc. In general, joints are provided in the structures to prevent the damage produced by stresses.

A Sealant can keep its elasticity & stability in both temperatures – high & low. Additionally, it is resistant to other chemicals, moisture and weathering.

Application of Sealant in Home

Sealants are used between materials having different thermal movement. In addition, these are also used in the glazing joints and sealing of porous surfaces to non-porous surfaces. The areas where sealants are used in the homes are:

  • Gap between wall and window frame at both sides (i.e. gap around the window frame)
  • Gap around the door frame
  • Gap around sink installation in your kitchen
  • Gap around AC gas pipe2 Sleeve
  • Joint between furniture pedestal and floor

Apart from these, there are other gaps in homes like tile joints in the bathroom, counter stone joints in the kitchen etc. which need to be filled. But as the material is the same, tile or stone grout3 can be used in the joints.

Difference from other fillers (grout)

Let us just understand the difference between sealant and grout:

Sl. No. Sealant Grout
1 A sealant typically refers to a high performance compound having more expensive ingredients, little shrinkage, excellent weathering and UV resistance. A grout is any intermediate performance compound. Typically being lower quality.
2 It is usually flexible material. It is a rigid material.
3 It provides long service life cycles from 10 – 20 years. It has a service life of around 5 years.
4 It is costlier than grout. It is cost-effective.

Beside the above differentiation, there may be different materials (like tile and counter stone joint) having different movements due to thermal changes. In that case use a sealant, as it works well where differential movement can cause your grout to crack. It is very important to choose junction filler wisely to increase its longevity.

Desirable Properties

Sealants used in filling gaps, joints and cracks must be shrink free. Sealants should also have excellent bonding and adhesion properties so that these do not come off when subjected to the sun rain, heat or cold temperature.

After application and on drying, these should form a permanent elastic rubber-like seal to serve their purpose. These should therefore be UV resistant and should offer a long-term durability.

Apart from this, we want to tell you briefly about commonly used sealants among different types4. Silicone sealants are the most commonly used sealants. These are transparent and take 10 to 20 minutes to form the sealing skin over the joint or gap. There are two types of silicone sealant preferred to be used for homes.

  • General purpose silicone sealant – It is a type of sealant which is used in interior areas.
  • Exterior grade silicone sealant – It is the type of sealant which is used in exterior areas. It is more chemical resistant and can withstand different weather conditions.

Benefits of using sealant at Home

Using a good quality sealant can be very beneficial in protecting your home.Proper sealing of windows and doors is something that should not be overlooked. Now let us walk you through benefits of using sealant (related to the common use of sealing around door and window frames) which will be helpful in understanding its importance:

  • Saves from damage to the home/property: Due to unsealed gaps around windows (reason can be sealant deterioration or sealant not being used) and doors, the moisture / water may seep into your home. Most common damages inside homes occur due to water seepage through the gaps between window frame & external wall. This gap will be a source for moisture to flow inside the home. If the gap is not filled properly, it will lead to moisture intrusion, paint deterioration & damage to walls and other associated areas. This point is applicable to other areas of the home as well where sealant is used. Hence using sealant and checking its condition can avoid the entry of moisture in your home.
  • Keeps Insects away:Unsealed windows and doors make it easy for little creatures like mosquitoes, ants, spiders etc. to invade a home.
  • Health Factor: Besides the fact that it will keep insects from moving in, it can also be beneficial to keep pollen and allergens outside. This can be extremely helpful for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Secondly, as we have already mentioned that moisture intrusion can occur in the home due to unsealed gaps. This will not only damage the property but also cause health hazards due to moisture.
  • Improves Energy Efficiency: If your doors and windows are properly sealed, then the temperature of the room can be maintained or regulated during both seasons (summer & winter). Improper sealing ultimately makes it more difficult for a cooling system like Air conditioner (AC) to regulate temperature. When AC is constantly working harder to regulate the required temperature within the home, chances are that energy costs will increase. Not only it will be more expensive, but it will also put more stress on the system/appliance than necessary.
  • Obstructs outside noise: Sealing windows and doors properly can also prevent street noise from entering your home and residents can continue to enjoy the peace and serenity inside their home.
  • Well maintained Window: A buildup of moisture being untreated for a period of time can cause your window (or door) to begin to warp and lose shape. Checking the condition of sealant is one of the tip for window maintenance.

Conclusion

Sealant plays a significant role in your home. When unwanted gaps are properly sealed, deterioration can be over and you can enjoy your life’s big investment for a long time. Our objective of writing this content was to tell you about the usage and importance of sealants for your home. Also, we wanted to create awareness that sometimes a small defect in your opinion like a gap around the window frame or sink, if left unnoticed can create a much bigger problem in the future.

Reference links used:
1. http://restoremasonry.com/capability/building-sealant/
2. https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-safety/10-ways-to-bug-proof-your-home.htm#pt5
3. https://www.tileoutlets.com/blog/why-you-need-grout-when-you-install-tile-and-stone/
4. https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/archive/features/choose-the-right-sealant-172448

Should you keep paying EMIs after the builder misses possession date?

Mumbai

In a recent case involving a housing complex, Rivali Park Project in Borivali—now called Wintergreen—the builder contended that buyers making payments after the possession date has passed amounts to them agreeing to the delay. But the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRera) rejected the developer’s claim that the homebuyers had consented to the delay because they kept paying the instalments despite the chance in possession date.

“As per Rera guidelines, in case of a delay by the developer in completion of the project, buyers may opt for either cancelling the deal and claiming refund with interest, or to continue the agreement and seek compensation for the delay period,” said Mukesh Jain and Associates, a Mumbai-based law firm.

Even though MahaRera ruled against the builder in this case between CCI Projects Ltd. and homebuyers, saying buyers were eligible to receive interest payment for the delay period, this might not always be the case.

So, does it make sense to keep making payments after the promised possession date passes?

According to Anuj Puri, chairman, Anarock Property Consultants, you may not have a choice.

“Frustrated with the prolonged project delays, many buyers stop payments to developers. However, under the agreement to sale, sellers or developers are well within their legal right to cancel the booking if buyers fail to honour their part of the payment deal. Since each case may be different, a legal person must always advise on such matters,” he said.

Puri added that although MahaRera ruled in favour of the buyers, the exact variables may differ from case to case and not all such cases are equal in the eyes of the law. “Despite Rera being in place across the country, it is still largely work-in-progress. It is very much a case-to-case scenario. Moreover, respective states’ and union territories’ Reras have their own rules and regulations. Therefore, buyers should first seek local legal advice before taking any action,” he said.

According to Anuranjan Mohnot, MD and CEO, Lumos Alternate Investment Advisors Pvt. Ltd, Rera needs to be simplified to protect interest of homebuyers as well as developers.

“To avoid situations like this, Rera should introduce a milestone-based project review instead of just having one parameter of delays with respect to the possession date. This will help buyers to sense serious deviations at an early stage and they can approach Rera for taking proactive steps to avoid major delays,” he said.

Even in states with a fully functional Rera in place, moving the authority in favour of homebuyers might turn out to be a challenge. It can be very frustrating to have inordinate delays in getting possession of your house, but discontinuing payments can cause further complications. Consider the circumstances and seek legal advice to protect your interests as a homebuyer.

Source: https://www.livemint.com/money/personal-finance/should-you-keep-paying-your-emis-after-the-builder-misses-possession-date-11598349480123.html

Understand the Residential Plumbing System

Your home’s plumbing system is important to keep your standard of living comfortable. If it is not working properly, you would not be able to take a shower, wash your hands, use the toilet, wash utensils, or run the washing machine. Plumbing systems are responsible for quite a bit. However, most people do not know what their plumbing system is. They just turn the handle or press a button and expect the water to come out at the pressure they want.

As a homeowner, it is important to have a basic understanding of how your plumbing system works so that you can take better care of it and prevent a costly breakdown. Because plumbing is complicated and one of the costliest systems to repair or install in a home, it is important to understand how the system works.

The residential plumbing system is a complex network comprising of hot & cold water supply pipes, fixtures, drain pipes, traps, valves,vent pipes, water storage tanks, etc.

A plumbing system serves two purposes: to supply water for human use, and to get rid of human wastes. It consists of a store of water that is distributed to various outlets.

1. Objectives of a Good Plumbing System

A good residential plumbing system makes a home a more comfortable and liveable place for the family. Ideally, it should:

  • Consistently supply safe drinking water
  • Efficiently collect and dispose of wastewater
  • Have no leaks that can waste water and create further problems
  • Prevent foul odours from escaping the system
  • Prevent clean water and wastewater from mixing together
  • Be connected to fixtures that meet quality standards

2. Essential Parts of Residential Plumbing System

  • Water Supply System (flow of water into a house)
  • Fixtures and Appliances (where water is used for carrying out various activities)
  • Drainage System (collection and disposal of used (waste) water)

a. Water Supply System

  • We are all aware that Potable water is supplied by the municipality or through private underground bore well.
  • This water enters a house through the main supply line. Water supply in a house is either of direct water supply system or an indirect water supply system.Let us understand it briefly:
    • Indirect water supply system: Water from mains is conveyed to storagewater tanks. The underground storage tank is connected to an overhead tank via a pump and a supply line; the water flows from there to any tap or outlet by gravity. This system is mainly used when water pressure in mains is not sufficient enough to deliver water at all faucets with adequate pressure. In India, usually we follow this system.
    • Direct water supply system: All water outlets of a house receive water directly from the underground tank with the use of a pump that supplies the water directly from the underground tank to all outlets. Such a pump should be able to continuously supply the line with pressure, so that whenever one opens a tap, water flows out.

To understand in detail about both direct and indirect water supply system, click here1.

b. Fixtures and Appliances

Fixtures, which are typically equipped with faucets, are needed so that the water supply can be used properly. Examples of these are showers, bathtubs, toilets, and sinks. Electric appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and geysers use water and must be connected to the waterline. The water in the pipes need to exert a bit of pressure so that it can be used in fixtures and appliances.

c. Drainage or Waste Water Disposal:

The wastewater system collects and disposes of wastewater through the use of gravity. The used water goes down drain traps that prevent foul gases from being released inside the home. The wastewater exits the home through the wastewater mainline, then it is collected in the septic tank or the municipal sewer line.

3. Areas and basic components of plumbing in the Building

a. Bathroom: Basic plumbing components in a bathroom are:

  • Main valve – to control the water flow
  • Basin – only cold or cold + hot inlet point & one outlet point
  • Water Closet – Health faucet point, cistern flush inlet point, outlet soil pipe
  • Shower – one head shower, one faucet, shower diverter, one floor outlet pipe
  • Geyser – inlet cold line & outlet line
  • Additional points like bathtub, washing machine, etc

b. Kitchen: Basic plumbing components in a kitchen:

  • Main valve – to control the water flow
  • Sink – only cold or cold + hot inlet point & one outlet point
  • Additional points like dishwasher, washing area tap point, etc

c. Roof/ Open terrace/ Balcony:

Basic plumbing components in a balcony/open terrace:

  • One or more rainwater outlet pipe

Basic plumbing components in a Roof:

  • One or more rainwater outlet pipe
  • Water tank & pipelines

4. Types of Plumbing Pipe lines in a Building

There are mainly 3 types of water running in a building:

a. Supply Water

  • Generally, single source of water (eg bore well water) is used for every use. i.e. drinking, cleaning, bathing and toilet flushing.
  • In a large complex with STP plant, water from plant is used for toilet flush only.
  • In some areas, water from the government body is used for drinking purposes Only. Bore well water can be used for other purposes.

b. Waste Water: Two different pipes are used for waste water:

  • Floor outlet pipe i.e. bathroom & kitchen waste water from bath & cleaning
  • Soil pipe – used for WC outlet pipe

c. Rainwater: Rainwater pipe is used for roof & open terrace rainwater outlet.

Apart from this, a vent pipe (usually connected to the soil and drain pipe) is provided for the purpose of the ventilation of the system. A vent pipe is open at top and bottom, to facilitate the exit of foul gases.

5. Types of Plumbing Pipes

a. Fresh water pipes

  • Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride(UPVC)
  • Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride(CPVC)
  • GI pipe (Galvanized iron pipe)
  • Copper pipe
  • Stainless steel Pipes
  • PEX or Cross-linked Polyethylene Piping
  • PPR pipe

b. Waste/soil/rainwater pipes

  • Cast iron Pipes
  • PVC pipes

There are various other types of plumbing pipes for residential buildings or others. Each pipe has its different characteristics and application.

Conclusion

This is your home’s plumbing system in a nutshell. It is much more complex than this, but with these basics in mind, you will hopefully have a better understanding of how your plumbing works and where a potential problem could be. If you would like more information about plumbing, have any questions regarding your plumbing system, want to have plumbing maintenance or you are experiencing a problem and need professional help, then click here.

Reference links used:
1. https://gharpedia.com/blog/direct-vs-indirect-water-supply/

Ensuring Safe Home inspections

The Coronavirus pandemicis still going on. Millions of people globally have been caught in the grip of this virus and many have lost their lives. Now everyone is scared about themselves and their family’s safety. No one wants outsiders to enter in their homes.

Pandemics, call for preparedness and not panic.

Considering the safety of our clients and team, we follow certain protocols which will remove doubt regarding well being & hygiene of your family. Considering the worry of our customers to get their home inspected in this pandemic, here is how we work keeping in mind the safety & hygiene for our customers as our priority:

1. Safe travel to the site

We give importance to commuting to the inspection site. In this pandemic, we strictly restrict the use of mass public transport by our team.They use bike or company driven car.

2. Wearing Safety equipment

Our inspection team wears need based safety equipment – Face mask, face shield, hand gloves, shoe covers, etc. We wear disposable, fresh & sanitized set of safety equipment at the site before beginning the inspection.

3. Accessing Common areas of the site

Our team follows safety measures while accessing common areas of a building (lift, staircase etc) by avoiding support of a handrail during usage of stairs. And safely operating lift by one person of the team that too with help of tissue paper which is disposed after usage.

4. Use of Hand sanitizer

Hand sanitizers are generously used by our team during the home inspection process, also before wearing and removing safety equipment. They will always follow hand hygiene to avoid the spread of virus and germs.

5. Using inspection tools safely

All home inspection tools used only with gloves donned. Besides, they are being cleaned regularly.

6. Monitoring health of our team

None of our inspectors or other team will work when they have a fever, cough or shortness of breath. We ensure monitoring of their temperature and health for the safety and well being of our customers and team.

7. Following Social Distance Norm

Our team follows social distancing norms – interacting with a customer at a safe distance. If the home’s occupants are in the home, the occupants are advised to stay in a centralized / separate location during the inspection and not follow the inspector around. Under no circumstance should the occupants be within 6 feet of the inspector. We encourage work from home and direct to site culture for increased safety.

8. Safer report exchange and payment option

Being a company that uses technology, the inspection report is exchanged digitally (via email) and our payment process is online mode also depending on the requirement of our customer. This option is for the customers who are sceptical about the point of contact during current time as physical reports or currency notes can spread infection.

Apart from the above, all inspectors are available by phone or video call after the inspection for follow up discussions / queries on our inspection report. Our team maintains cleanliness and hygiene during the entire inspection process. By working together, we can continue providing outstanding home inspections while better protecting our clients, team, home’s occupants and others.

MACJ – A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections, a pioneering Professional Home Inspection Services in India is trying to set high standards for the Indian home / property inspection industry – on how to respond to the current situation. We would also like to tell you that the mentioned safety protocols are being followed for all types of our inspection services at this current time. The health and safety of our customers and team are our first priority. Besides, we always try to ensure proper health and safety of your family and home/property by detecting issues and providing solution for specific issues. A Home inspection is significant and essential to ensure a healthy & safe home.

Know the Hygiene Hotspots in your Home

We may do a good job of keeping our Homes cleaned and sanitized, yet there are spots that often get overlooked and neglected. There are many corners in your house that need more than just simple cleaning. Make sure you reach all those hygiene hotspots around your home and sanitize them thoroughly. You may not know but germs must be lurking around to make life miserable for you and your family. Do not take chances because hygiene is crucial. Read on to know which are the hygiene hotspots in your home and how best you can sanitize those spots.

What is washing and sanitizing?

Washing is a mere cleaning of the surface. While you wash your countertop in the kitchen or the floor in the bathroom, you just get rid of food particles, soil, dust, and other such unwanted elements. Some amounts of bacteria also get washed away in the process but not all. You can wash a surface using simple soapy water, vinegar mixed in water, or any of the branded cleaning products available in the market. But sanitization is not just a removal of dirt, grease, and food debris from a surface. There are bacteria and other pathogens on the surface. You cannot see them with the naked eye. Sanitizing kills those germs and makes the surface completely contamination-free. For hygiene hotspots in a home, washing alone is not enough; following up with proper sanitization at regular intervals is also important.

Which are the hygiene hotspots at your home?

To keep home healthy for the family, it is important to maintain good hygiene. This means is to do all you can to prevent your home environment from becoming a breeding ground for disease-causing germs.So, have a look at the following spots in your home.

1. Kitchen countertop and sink

Food, dust, bacteria, and liquid spills- you name it and you have it on your kitchen countertop. Raw meat, fish, green vegetables everything is on it. You wash all of them in your sink too. The food particles are left to sit in there and give rise to health risks. Thus, a range of microbes can be present here. The same stands true for the cutting board too. A mix of fruits &vegetables, meat, fish in raw form increases the chances of contamination.

2. Washcloth and sponges

They do not occupy a large part of your mind when you set to sanitize your home. But trust us, a lot of dirt is left behind in them even after cleaning. These remain damp and wet. Now, bacteria grows well in a moist environment. Your washcloth and sponges are a warm abode of them. Using the same sponge for months? You are only spreading the bacteria all over the home.

3. Kitchen and bathroom faucets

The taps and other faucets in both the kitchen and the bathroom get dirty and contaminated easily. Very often you touch these objects with dirty hands. When someone else puts their hands on them they automatically get infected.

4. Knobs, handles, and switches

Handles of doors and kitchen cabinets, doorknobs, switches, and toilet flush buttons are smaller surfaces. But they pack a lot of punch in terms of germs. Many users are handling them daily. Contamination risks are high too.

5. TV remote, Telephone handset, Kids’ toys

Being handled by multiple users, even during snacking, the TV remote is home to multiple pathogenic bacteria causing pneumonia, diarrhoea, skin infections, etc.

Telephone handset & mobile phones are also one of the germspot. As mobile phone is a device that is with you almost all the time, and everywhere carries many germs on its surface at any given point of time.

Kids’ toys, when playing outside, become dirty. Kids may sneeze on the toys and put it in the mouth the next moment. Contamination all over!

6. Floor carpet

A Carpet usually carry a lot of dust which is not so good especially for people with dust allergies. These can collect dust, germs and indoor allergens such as house dust mite debris, pet hair etc.

7. Inside the refrigerator and micro oven

Proper cleaning of the refrigerator is vitally important, though is often overlooked and viewed as “too hard”. Did you know that dirty fridges can act as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria such as salmonella, listeria and E. coli?

Microwave ovens also attract germs on a regular basis. Foods are taken in and out of these appliances randomly. This makes them breeding ground for bacteria and other germs.

8. Kitchen Cabinets

It is not only the cabinet handles that you should worry about. The doors of the cabinet and the insides are equally important hygiene hotspots. Can you guarantee that you always wipe your washed utensils dry before keeping them inside the cabinets? You can’t. And the locked moisture inside gives rise to bacteria and other pathogens. Very often you might touch the cabinets and the insides even after handling raw food items direct from the market. That way, you give an entry pass to the germs.

Kitchen cabinets are also favourite hiding places of pests, especially roaches and ants. To eliminate them, you must get a pest control service1 done regularly.

9. Toilet Seat, Cover& others

Yes, the seats and covers carry innumerable germs for obvious reasons! Touched by multiple users, incidents of backsplash, etc invite germs in and make these surfaces hygiene hotspots. Flush handle2 is also a germ spot which is a common touch point in your home.

10. Trash bin

During the whole day, you touch the trash bin umpteen number of times and do not always wash your hand before moving on to other chores. Hygiene hotspot indeed!

Apart from this, damp corners of your home3 can also be a hygiene hotspot.

How to sanitize these hygiene hotspots?

Firstly, wash surfaces with soap and warm, clean water to remove dirt and debris. Next, sanitize surfaces with household bleach. To know more, click here4.

It is preferable that you should use different cutting boards for different items. Do not use the same cutting board for vegetables and non-veg items. Every time after use make sure you wash it with soap or detergent and water to get rid of the germs left behind.

Soak washcloth and sponges in lemon juice or white vinegar. Dry wet sponge thoroughly in the sun. Do not use the same cloth or sponge for more than a month.

Wash your hands well with soap after coming back home and then only handle the switches, doorknobs, kitchen utensils, TV remote, etc. For sanitizing these smaller surfaces you can always use all-purpose cleaner and wipe them with a microfiber cloth. Repeat this at least twice a week.

In this current situation, you can also opt for steam cleaning service5 which is safe and eco-friendly method of sanitization.

Additionally, close the toilet cover while flushing to prevent backsplash. Make sure you clean cover and the seat altogether before leaving the washroom.

After emptying your trash bin, wash the inside of it using soapy water and a brush.

If you choose to use any sanitizer or disinfectant, read safety rules6 & basics.

Lastly,don’t forget to wash and sanitize your hands.

To reduce the chances of contamination, you must wash and sanitize your hands7 frequently even while staying at home.

So this, in a nutshell, is how you take care of the hygiene hotspots scattered across your home. Sanitizing home8 is a difficult task. But it can never be ignored. With proper sanitization, you are 100% sure about putting a stop to the spread of germs.

Reference links used:
1. https://sanitizeyourplace.in/pest-control-disinfestation-services/
2. https://www.thesun.co.uk/living/3272186/this-is-how-many-germs-are-lurking-in-your-bathroom-and-youll-be-horrified-at-the-dirtiest-spot/
3. https://www.dettol.co.in/en/healthy-homes/home-hygiene-hotspots/
4. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/cleaning-sanitizing/household-cleaning-sanitizing.html
5. https://sanitizeyourplace.in/steam-cleaning-services/
6. https://sanitizeyourplace.in/basics-of-handling-cleaner-sanitizer-disinfectant/
7. https://sanitizeyourplace.in/importance-of-washing-and-sanitizing-your-hands/
8. https://sanitizeyourplace.in/

Developer can’t add extra floor without nod of buyers: Maharashtra real estate regulator

Mumbai

In a major judgment, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRera) disallowed a builder last week from carrying out the construction of an additional floor for his project at New Panvel without the consent of the buyers who already bought flats in the building.

The ruling is significant, as builders over the years modified plans and made additions to their existing constructions without taking the buyers into confidence, leaving the latter helpless, as they were promised a completely different structure.

The case was filed by four homebuyers – Deepesh Singh, Sujay Joshi, Nikhil Bare and Vaibhav Ballal – against Ms Neelkanth Constructions, for its Neelkanth Vihar Phase I project at New Panvel.

The complainants alleged that despite receiving the possession of their flats, the developer is yet to form the society and allot parking spaces to the occupants.

Responding to the complaint, Neelkanth Constructions said it wanted to utilise the unused floor space index (FSI). Accusing the complainants of ulterior motives, Neelkanth Constructions contented that after taking the possession of their flats, the buyers cannot stop it from consuming the FSI of the entire land.

The developer said they started the process of forming the society, but the complainants kept obstructing the respondent to extract money from the builder. Hence, the society formation process was stopped. The developer also said that if the complainants do not disrupt the process, it will go ahead with the formation of the society.

However, while hearing the case, the state real estate regulator cited section 14 of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) 2016, which mandated that any modification in the building plans, including the construction of additional floors, required the requisite consent of two-third of the allottees.

“With regards to the construction of additional floor to be constructed in the building, MahaRera directs that without the consent of two-third of the allottees, as prescribed under section 14 of the RERA, a respondent would not carry out any construction on site,” MahaRera said in its ruling.

According to housing activist Vinod Sampat, a builder loses his/her right of modification after the first apartment is sold.

“It is binding on the builder to obtain the consent of the buyer, as the latter has booked [the property] based on the plans given by the developer. Any additional construction would be a burden on the homebuyer, and hence, the consent [of the buyer] is required. Even the extra FSI offered later goes to the kitty of homebuyers,” said Sampat

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/mumbai-news/developer-can-t-add-extra-floor-without-nod-of-buyers-maharashtra-real-estate-regulator/story-UUiwdRUYGzpeUkIphqooVN.html

Check the sealant around sink installation

Detect Issues

Sink is installed on counter without sealant application.

Describe Issues

As Sink in kitchen is installed on counter without sealant application, water during utensils may seep in from and along sink and counter stone junction. If left unnoticed, will lead to unhygienic and unhealthy condition for residents in future.

Direct Solutions

We recommend junction to be cleaned and uniformly sealed with silicone sealant in dry condition.

Common Plaster Defects and their Cure

A home is a dream for most of us. We decorate our home in many ways. One of the ways is painting our home with our creativity and choice. Painting is usually done on the plastered surface by the following steps1. If the plaster quality is not good enough it can cause many problems later.

Plaster is a common material used in construction all around the world. Easy to work with and also easier to repair. However, there will be times when your plaster starts to show signs of wear and tear or other problems.

Understanding what type of problems can occur and its causes, you can resolve them before they become bigger issues. Today we will walk you through several common plaster defects and their primary causes & prevention.

1. Blistering of Plastered Surface

Blistering is the formation of small patches of plaster, swelling out beyond the plastered surface, arising due to late slaking (addition of water to lime) of lime particles in the plaster. This defect is usually caused due to the uneven mixing of plaster.

How to prevent it: This can be prevented by ensuring appropriate mixing between cement and it’s components used to form plaster.

2. Plaster De-bonding

De-bonding occurs when a plaster is separated from the wall. It can be caused by an excessively thick plaster layer, inadequate substrate preparation or may be due to a dusty, oily or dry substrate.

How to prevent it: To prevent de-bonding of plaster, we need to take care of the following things during plastering.

  • Remove dust & oil from the substrate before plastering.
  • Allow substrate to reach correct moisture content.
  • If necessary you should use bonding chemical.

3. Cracks on Plastered Surface

One of the most common problems you would have observed in plastering is the crack. Cracks on the plastered surface can be in different forms:

  • Crazing – It is a network of fine cracks like spider web. They are usually very fine and do not extend through the whole depth of the plaster. It occurs due to presence of excess fine content in the sand or due to dry base on which plaster is applied – when base absorbs the water and fines accumulate on the surface, it leads to crazing.
  • Separation crack at joints – It usually occurs at joints of two different materials for example at junction of RCC & Brick work. It occurs due to differential thermal movement.
  • Crack with Hollowness – This crack occurs due to hollowness in plaster. Other reasons could be extra water in the plaster mix or due to poor workmanship.

How to prevent it: Mainly cracks occur due to bad workmanship or expansion and shrinkage in the plaster during drying. Below are few tips to prevent cracks:

  • Ensure the addition of water in mortar done is by skilled mason and not by unskilled labour to ensure desired workability in terms of handling and application.
  • It can be avoided by proper curing of the plaster in order to slow down any rapid drying.

Taking care of workmanship and material quality issues will help in preventing cracks.

4. Efflorescence on Plastered Surface

When a newly constructed wall dries out, the soluble salts are brought to the surface and they appear in the form of a whitish crystalline substance. This is called efflorescence. Efflorescence is formed on plasters when soluble salts are present in plaster making materials as well as building materials such as bricks, sand, cement etc. Even water used in the construction work may contain soluble salts. It seriously affects the adhesion of paint with the wall surface and causes further problems.

How to prevent it:

  • All Construction materials used for wall should be free from salt.
  • Ensuring that the surface is moisture-free.

5. Falling Out of Plaster

This defect can happen in two forms – Flaking of plaster and peeling off plaster.

Flaking of plaster: The formation of a small loose mass on the plastered surface is known as flaking. It is mainly due to bond failure between successive coats of plaster.

Peeling off plaster: The plaster from some portion of the surface comes off and a patch is formed. This is termed as peeling. It is also mainly due to bond failure between successive coats of plaster.

How to prevent it: Both defects can be prevented with proper material selection and surface preparation. Imperfect adhesion can be minimized by good workmanship.

6. Popping of Plaster

Popping is the formations of conical like holes that break out of the plaster. It is caused due to the presence of contaminant particles such as burnt lime or other organic materials in the mix of mortar.

How to prevent it: To prevent popping in plastering, you need to ensure that no contaminant particles are present in the mortar mix.

7. Loose Plaster

When the plaster gets displaced on external impacts like application of material or tapping, etc, it is termed as loose plaster. This is caused mainly due to improper mixture and inadequate curing.

How to prevent it: It can be prevented with the use of proper mixture and adequate curing. Good workmanship will help in avoiding this problem.

Apart from the above defects, Uneven or undulation also occurs at plastered surface. The plastered surface should be in perfect plumb and without any undulations. Unevenly plastered surface happens due to poor workmanship2 of the plastering work.

After knowing the defects, read some precautions to be taken while plastering:

  • The areas that need to be plastered should be washed and kept wet.
  • All loose material sticking to the masonry should be removed before plastering.
  • The joints should be cleaned by brushing or scrapping with wire brushes.
  • The uniform level is tested with plumb-bob before & after applying the plaster.
  • Specified cement, sand ratio should be used while making cement mortar.
  • Ensure proper bonding between the surface of masonry and plaster.

Apart from these precautions, Skilled workers and good quality material should be used to minimise the defects3.

Conclusion

Plastering not only makes the surfaces smooth but gives a good finishing to the walls, ceiling and other parts of building. It is an important part of construction. To ensure good quality of plaster, it is important to know about the defects in plastering. Our objective of this content was to create awareness about various defects in plastering and its prevention. We hope this information will be helpful for you. And if you want a professional advice, then you can contact home inspection services who can inspect your property. Opting this service will give you information about issues and long term solutions for all types of defects in your home/property.

Reference links used:
1. http://bscpaints.com/blog/painting-process/
2. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/bad-workmanship-leads-to-defective-plaster/articleshow/228714.cms
3. https://civilblog.org/2017/07/21/minimise-defects-plastering-work/

What Makes Home Inspection An Essential Part Of Living?

Home is not just brick and mortar. It is where our soul finds peace. It is the place which makes us happy, secured and comfortable in a world of billion people. But as we grow and change the bits and pieces of our life we often tend to ignore things that ensure the longevity of this abode of peace. We are either busy mending its exterior or beautifying its interior. We simply do not look deeper. Majority of the people in India are not familiar with the idea of the home inspection. Ask your neighbour Malhotra Ji, he will tell you about everything from buying a property to getting the best electrician in the area. But ‘home inspection?’ – Well, you can almost visualize the clueless expression on his face.

Inspection of the home is a service area that needs to be explored in our country for better living, prosperity and growth. Even if people are aware of the theoretical part of the home inspection they have hardly travelled the road in reality. This article will help you to gain insight into home inspection and push you towards a path you will never regret.

What is a home inspection?

Professional home inspection is a process through which condition of your home or property is examined thoroughly by certified home inspectors. All accessible areas of your home, for example, wall, ceiling, floor, doors, windows, plumbing & electrical systems and alike are examined to identify the existing or possible issues /damages and give long term solutions.

In simple terms, home inspection means the Health and safety Check Up of your Home or Property. To understand its area, elements, coverage, 3D of issues; read So What exactly is Home Inspection?

What is the significance of home inspection?

Most common problems in Indian homes are damp, leakages, excess amount of moisture as also electrical accidents, fire and safety hazards. Damp is a major cause of worry, as the reason being that India has a humid climate which affects a property be it old or new. Besides, faults or issues in the building also tend to become problematic with years. Hence, it is essential to have the right kind of technology that keeps you ahead in your home game. Here is why a home inspection is a boon in your life.

Saves your property and family

Inspection is a great way to become aware of the areas of the house that can act as a hazard or create problems in the future and also suggest solution for it. Let us give you examples – There is a negligible crack in the wall near your window. You notice it, ignore it for some time or plan to postpone it till the next painting session. What follows next? – A damp patch, an obvious sign of seepage, and swelling of the wall paint. Worse happens when dots of fungi start appearing on the damp patch.

Now let’s talk health.

Don’t we really know that germs flourish in damp conditions? Dampness on the wall not only spoil the look of your home but impacts the health of your family too. But we are happy to take anti-allergic pills and use inhalers regularly thinking there is no choice. Why not take a definitive step now and get to the root of the problem with the help of home inspection.

Find salient and hidden defects of the home

No home is perfect. Your home can also be the safe haven of one or many hidden defects. As you already know that every house has seven basic elements (walls, ceiling, floor, doors, windows, plumbing and electrical). These elements can conceal issues which can create serious threat in the proper functioning and safety of your home. So protect your home from masked hazards.

Save you from future repair and maintenance costs

With the help of home inspection,you will get aware of issues and solution. Getting issues rectified on time can save you from further associated problems.

Issues pointed out by the home inspector should be considered because something as small as a leaking pipe could turn into a bigger problem later.It is better to fix a problem when it is small than to wait and let it become a bigger problem.Repair and maintenance costs go up all the time. Also add to that the cost of material also keeps increasing all the time. Last but not the least, the amount of inconvenience caused by a repair work is also a factor.

Hence, in long run it will save future repair & maintenance cost as well as give you a peace of mind.

Makes life better

When our house is falling apart or when we don’t feel comfortable in it, the standard and the spirit of living a good life evaporates. Our surrounding acts as a promoter of a healthy mind. A home inspection is one such initiative that opens doors of possibilities and allows us to fix the errors and have a better home along with life.

Keeps accidents at bay

Accidents are unpredictable events. But what about getting the opportunity of identifying areas that can cause an accident? Wouldn’t you like to take serious actions and extinguish the possibility of an accident? If it’s yes then home inspection is what you need right now.

Basically, Home inspection detects the unsafe areas of home. Safety is one of the key aspects that a home inspector focuses on during an inspection. It is the need of the hour to have a safer home.

So, only a homeowner needs a home inspection, right?

Wrong. You need a home inspection if you are a home or property buyer, home seller, interior designer, real estate developer or real estate consultant or are in any relatable profession. A home inspection can be beneficial for you in a number of ways. Even your office / shop / school / showroom, etc needs a thorough property inspection.

What is the process of a home inspection?

A home inspection is not only about home inspectors arriving at your door checking the house and walking out. It is a procedure that is followed step by step by trained professionals. Let us understand it very briefly.

It can be best explained in 4 phrases:

  • Areas: All the areas of your home e.g., bedroom, bathroom, living area, dining area, kitchen, balcony, loft, terrace, servant quarter, etc are inspected.
  • Elements: All the 7 elements (wall, ceiling, floor, door, window, plumbing, electrical) of each area as all any additional element is checked.
  • What is Inspected? The condition of the house and other important details is looked into. These include types of materials used, finishing& installation, operation & functionality.Last but not the least, safety aspects are also reviewed.
  • 3D of Issues: The process of inspection results in:
    • Detection of the issues / problems
    • Describing the issues.
    • Directing the solution to each issue / problem.

The working procedure of the inspectors may vary from the company to company and their policies but the central idea of creating a safe and secured shelter remains the same.

Watch the video to get a clearer idea:

Now, that you know about home inspection and its numerous benefits, it will be easier for you to formulate better decisions when it comes to your space. Always remember time, choices and decision matters. So watch your steps and support constructive and comprehensive approaches that will help you to keep your home healthy and safe.

Builder defied deal? Homebuyers have to approach UP-Rera again

Noida

Buyers who have lodged complaints in UP-Rera through a conciliator but are yet to get a satisfactory resolution will have to make fresh appeals to get their cases heard.

UP-Rera member Balvinder Kumar said a complainant is given two options on the regulatory body’s website — a buyer can either file a case through a conciliator, which is free of cost, or make a direct appeal to get the case heard in the Rera court.

The conciliator usually helps the builder and buyer reach an agreement, which is signed by both parties for future reference. However, several buyers have alleged that builders are yet to honour the agreements, even after months of signing them.

A group of 45 buyers of a housing project in Noida Extension had approached the conciliator over delay in handing over their flats. “We had booked our flats in 2010 and were supposed to get delivery by 2013. After six years, we approached UP-Rera through the conciliatory forum. An agreement was reached between the builder and us that they would hand over the flats by December 2019. But till date, nothing has moved. We have just wasted time,” said Bhupendra Tiwari, a buyer.

Ravindra Jain, who has bought two shops in a project, said, “I had approached the conciliator to get the penalty for delay in handover. The conciliator had made an agreement and the builder had agreed to pay the penalty. But it was not honoured later. We tried reaching out to the UP-Rera again. But the lockdown had been enforced by then.”

Arun Taneja, who booked a flat in another project, had a similar complaint over penalty. “The conditions laid down in the agreement by the conciliator have not been honoured by the builder. The terms of penalty payment that the builder had promised in the meeting have been defied by them. What are we supposed to do now?” he asked.

RD Paliwal, a conciliator for UP-Rera, said, “In most cases, builders do agree to meet the promises. But we have not been able to issue signed documents for cases heard via video conference during the lockdown. We usually put the agreements on a document and send it to both parties. If some agreements have not been honoured, we will look into them again,” Paliwal said.

Kumar said the process of approaching a conciliator first can be time-taking. “When a buyer opts for conciliation, the builder often gains time. It is better that buyers make an appeal in the UP-Rera court. If the court feels there can be conciliation, it can issue a directive. In that case, Rera has some enforcement powers, unlike in a conciliation agreement. So, if a conciliation has not been honoured, buyers will have to make a fresh appeal,” Kumar said.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/builder-defied-deal-homebuyers-have-to-approach-up-rera-again/articleshow/77208365.cms