The Red Book June 2024

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY

Congratulations on the purchase of your new home!

Thank you for choosing Robuck Homes to build your dream home. We appreciate your trust and are excited to be part of this milestone in your life.

We've prepared a comprehensive manual to guide you through the home building process and help you make informed decisions. Our goal is to make this an enjoyable experience for you. Our team of professionals is here to assist you every step of the way.

The manual also includes maintenance guidelines and details about our warranty program. We've gathered valuable tips from our experience, homeowners, suppliers, and trade partners to make cleaning and maintenance easier for you.

Please read the "1-Year Limited Warranty" and “10-Year Limited Structural Warranty” pages before your closing and authorize the necessary documents. The manual will be a useful resource, so keep it handy for future reference.

Certain sections may not apply to your specific community due to different features.

We are grateful for your trust and look forward to creating a home that exceeds your expectations. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.

Warmest regards,

Chip Bishop General Manager

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

As a locally owned business, Robuck Homes gives you a more personalized experience. Recognized as a premier builder in both Raleigh-Durham and Coastal Carolina Markets, we have received a well-deserved reputation for unwavering quality and customer service. In fact, many of our homeowners are enjoying their third or even 4th Robuck Home.

Robuck Homes offers an enjoyable buying experience because we offer you an all-in-one experience, allowing you to choose your homesite, choose your home, then personalize your home in our state-of-the-art Design Studio.

Proud of our commitment to quality, we’ve put it in writing with an exclusive Robuck Homes 1-Year Limited Warranty and a 10-Year Limited Structural Warranty. We also have a 60 Day and 11 Month Home Inspection to ensure that your new home is still in pristine condition after you move in.

DISCOVER THE ROBUCK WAY

PURPOSE

At Robuck Homes, our core purpose comes directly from the founders of our company, the Robuck Family. We strive for excellence and to treat our customers right. We meet and exceed expectations through clear communication during each phase of a home’s construction.

RELATIONSHIPS

We care about the whole picture, we work as a team, and we hold ourselves to the highest standards. In doing so, we build and cultivate long-lasting relationships, so we can deliver a product to our customers of the highest value.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

We build each home as if it were our own, and we treat each homebuyer the way we would want to be treated. If something isn’t right, we make it right.

Family Owned and Operated Frank Robuck Sr. & Jr. circa 1943

MEET YOUR TEAM

On-Site Sales Associate

Your Sales Associate will be your primary contact during your new home construction experience. Our knowledgeable associates are here to guide you through the purchasing, construction, and closing phases of the home buying process. A single point of contact ensures everything runs smoothly, efficiently, and effectively, but also allows us to provide you with exceptional service. In order to maintain clear expectations and minimize the potential for misunderstanding, please submit all request in writing.

Design Studio Consultant

You will receive expert guidance from your Design Studio Consultant through the process of personalizing your new home. They will provide helpful information about the performance, design, and benefits of many included and available products you will be choosing to create your new home.

On-Site Builder

Your on-site builder monitors construction of your new home from planning to completion and works directly with Trade Partners to ensure construction tasks are completed on time. You will have an opportunity to meet with your builder at several milestones during the construction of your home. Depending upon the stage of completion at the time of contract, you will have a Pre-Construction Meeting, Pre-Drywall Meeting and Home Orientation.

SURVEYS AND FEEDBACK

Through the entire construction process and after move-in, we want to stay in touch with our homebuyers. On occasion, we will ask how we are doing. Please take a moment to share your feedback during these survey opportunities. Your feedback provides valuable insight and will help us consistently improve our product and customer experience.

Robuck Homes surveys our customers at three touch points:

1. Mid-Construction Survey

2. Shortly-After-Closing: 90 days after closing

3. Long-After-Closing: 12 months after closing

Please take a moment to share your thoughts during these survey opportunities and let us know how we are doing. Your response is much appreciated!

PURCHASE AGREEMENT, LOANS AND CLOSINGS

PURCHASE AGREEMENT & LENDER

The purchase agreement is the legal document that represents your understanding regarding the purchase of your new home. Please read the Purchase Agreement and all attachments carefully.

The first step in purchasing your new home is to apply for your mortgage. To assist you, we may suggest lenders appropriate for your specific financial situation.

NEW LOAN

The buyer will be responsible for all costs associated with obtaining a new loan. Unless specifically stated otherwise in your purchase agreement, Robuck Homes Triangle, LLC is not obligated to pay any closing costs, discount fees, or other charges.

FINANCIAL COMMITMENT

Robuck Homes Triangle, LLC requires the buyer to provide evidence that they have the funds available to purchase the property ("Financial Commitment"). Robuck Homes Triangle, LLC reserves the right to terminate the Sales Agreement if the Buyer fails to provide a Financial Commitment. Whenever a Financial Commitment includes a Loan Commitment, the Loan Commitment must outline the terms of the Loan. This includes whether the buyer must sell another property to complete the loan.

PREFERRED LENDER TEAM

We offer a Preferred Lender team that will shop around to find the best program to suit your specific needs. Choosing one of our experienced preferred lenders can offer peace of mind during the home buying process. Having your homebuilder and lender work together can help reduce some of the uncertainty associated with buying a new home and ensures that you are receiving excellent service.

ESTABLISHING THE CLOSING DATE

Your builder and sales associate will specify a closing date at the pre-drywall meeting. A great deal of preparation goes into planning the building schedule for your new home, however there are situations that can impact your closing. Weather and material shortages may affect the construction schedule. After selections are finalized, a change order request may also impact the completion date. It is important to respond in a timely manner to all requests from your builder, sales associate, and lender to avoid delays.

LOAN DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

All Borrowers:

Drivers license for all borrowers

W2’s of all borrowers for the following years ________ ________

Two most recent pay stubs for all borrowers

Personal tax returns including all schedules (all borrowers) for ther following years ________ ________

Checking and savings account statements for the past month(s) (must include all pages even if blank)

1 Month 2 Months

Most recent statement(s) for the following asset accounts: IRAs CDs Money Markets Stocks 401K Profit Sharing

Letter of explanation for any gaps in employment for 30 days or more in the past 2 years

Copy of leases for all inventment properties you own

Fully executed copy of sales contract

Copy of cancelled check (front/back) for earnest money deposit

Most recent mortgage statement(s)

Proof of HOA dues or letter of explanation stating home has no required HOA dues

Self-Employed Borrowers:

Business bank account(s) statement(s) for past three months

Business tax returns to include all schedules and K1’s if applicable for the following years ________ _______

Signed and dated YTD Profit and Loss statement

Documents which may be required:

Relocation agreement if move is financed by employer (i.e. buyout agreement plus documenty outlinging company-pad closing costs benefits)

Bankruptcy Discharge Papers

Trustee Sale Date Deed for foreclosure

Divorce decree

Legal separation agreement

Social Security award letter

Disability aaward letter including proof of continuance for a minimum of three years

A Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

VA DD 214 Certificate of Releaser or Discharge from Active Duty

CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE

The sequence of construction provides a general overview of the building milestones. Your Builder will invite you to attend several milestone meetings throughout the construction of your new home. These meetings will occur during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, usually between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

If you have purchased an Inventory home which is already under construction, your Sales Associate will let you know the construction stage and review the remaining steps.

OVERVIEW

Finalize Purchase Agreement

Design Studio Selections (Duration: 3 weeks)

. Meet with Design Studio Consultant for interior and exterior design selections

. Finalize design selections

Pre-Construction

Work begins at Robuck Homes to prepare the paperwork for the building permit and start package.

. Proposed house location (PHL) is ordered and prepared by our surveyor.

. Plans are sent to the engineer for structural engineering.

. The roof truss design is completed and sealed.

. The first set of Purchase Orders (PO’s) are assembled and executed.

. Plans and specifications are prepared for the field.

Permit Received – Start of Construction

. Any lot clearing and grading will be completed

. Homesite staked for foundation

CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE CONT.

Foundation (Approximate Duration: 3 weeks)

. Meet with your Builder for the Pre-Construction Orientation (if construction stage allows)

Crawl Space Foundation

. Footing installation

. Masonry labor

Slab Foundation

. Slab Prepped

. Plumbing and Electrical groundwork

. Pour slab

. Backfill grading

Framing > Insulation (Approximate Duration 5 weeks)

. Frame First & Second Floor

. Frame Roof

. Install windows and exterior doors

. Install house wrap

. Mechanical Systems Rough-in (Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical)

. Install Fireplace

. Install Gas Lines

. Install shingles

. Install Siding

. Meet with your Builder for Pre-Drywall Orientation

. Insulate

CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE CONT.

Drywall > Pre-Closing Orientation (Approximate Duration 8 Weeks)

. Install drywall

. Install tile

. Install garage doors

. Install Interior trim

. Paint walls and trim

. Install cabinets

. Install hard surface flooring

. Install countertops

. Appliance delivery/install

. Install Interior finishes and Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical trim out

. Install sod/landscaping

. Install carpet

. Clean

. Robuck Homes Quality Check

. Final Inspection

Pre-Closing Orientation > Closing (Approximate Duration 2 Weeks)

. Meet with your Builder for the Homeowner Orientation

. Orientation Punch List

. Reclean

. Homeowner Sign off

. Closing

DESIGN STUDIO SELECTIONS

INCLUDED FEATURES

Included Community Features are the features and amenities that are standard with the base price of your home. Our Sales Associates are available to discuss and demonstrate the features and construction specifications in the homes for the community you are visiting. Robuck Homes uses high performing, trusted brands that provide value and lasting quality. We recommend you take time to review and become familiar with the Included Features of your new home.

PRESALE AND INVENTORY HOMES

Inventory Home See Chart On Page 20

Inventory homes are homes that have been pre-selected with structural features and design options by Robuck Homes. Any home purchased after construction has begun will be evaluated individually regarding any available opportunities for changes to features. Your Sales Associate will assist you in determining what options may be available depending on the homes phase of construction.

Inventory homes are featured with one of our professionally designed, predetermined color schemes. Design Schemes are chosen to reflect the most current selections and trends and includes various colors and design styles. One of the benefits of purchasing an inventory home is the potential for an earlier closing date.

Presale Home See Chart On Page 21

Purchasing a Presale home allows you to select your homesite, floorplan, elevation, and structural options. You will personalize your new home with a professional Design Studio Consultant in one of our design studios equipped with displays of the latest trends in products and design.

Inventory Customer Roadmap

1 CONTRACT

N Step One

. Finalize your purchase agreement and review design scheme of your new home

2 CONSTRUCTION

Step Two

. Pre-Construction Orientation

. Pre-Drywall Orientation

. Pre-Closing Orientation

. Pre-Closing Sign Off

Step Three

. 60 Day Review . 11 Month Review

3 WARRANTY

Pre-Sale Customer Roadmap

1

Step Three

Step One

. Select floorplan and structural options and finalize your purchase agreement

2 PERSONALIZE COONS ON O

. Pre-Construction Orientation

. Pre-Drywall Orientation

. Pre-Closing Orientation

. Pre-Closing Sign Off

Step Two

. Design Studio Orientation & Exterior Selections

. Interior Design & Stylize

. Review & Finalize

3 CONSTRUCTION

4 WARRANTY

OPTIONS & REQUESTS

AVAILABLE OPTIONS

In a Pre-Sale home, the Included Features list is only the beginning. Robuck Homes offers a wide variety of products, finishes, performance levels, and investment amounts to allow you to uniquely personalize your home. We frequently update our selections to offer you the latest styles, finishes and high-performing features you desire. Our Design Studio Consultants will guide you through the available options and collaborate with you to create a home that reflects your own sense of style and fulfills your lifestyle needs.

CUSTOM OPTIONS AND SPECIAL PRICE REQUESTS

Special Price Requests are custom items that a homebuyer requests which are not currently included features or available options for the home. The Sales Associate in your community will submit a Special Price Request Form with the details of the request.

A non-refundable fee per item is required for all Special Price Requests (SPR) regardless of whether you accept the pricing you are given. If a permit modification is involved, a permitting fee is due at the time of the change. Permit fees can vary depending upon the type of change and the community.

CHANGE REQUESTS

On the rare occasion that you need to make a change after the selections have been finalized, we will do our best to accommodate the change request if the stage of construction allows. However, please understand that there is a possibility we may not be able to accommodate the request. If the change request is accepted, there is a per item change order fee for any changes we implement. It is possible that Change Requests will delay the completion of your home.

SCHEDULE OF DESIGN STUDIO APPOINTMENTS

The Robuck Homes Design Studio is open by appointment Monday – Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm.

Upon receiving your purchase agreement, your Design Studio Consultant will contact you to schedule your initial design studio appointment, review the design studio process and discuss any questions you may have.

Your Design Studio Consultant will guide you through every step of personalizing your new home. You will enjoy up to three appointments to select finishes and features which will support your lifestyle needs and design preferences.

DESIGN STUDIO APPOINTMENTS

1st DESIGN STUDIO APPOINTMENT

EXTERIOR SELECTIONS & DESIGN STUDIO ORIENTATION (2‐3 hours)

During your first Design Studio appointment you will review your structural choices, preview interior selections, and select exterior paint colors and materials for your home. Your design studio consultant will preview the features and selections you will be making decisions on during the next visit to the Design Studio. Your Sales Consultant will have reviewed with you all the pre-determined structural options in your new home prior to your first Design appointment.

2nd DESIGN STUDIO APPOINTMENT

INTERIOR SELECTIONS APPOINTMENT (3‐4 hours)

At the interior selection’s appointment, you will make design choices for your new home. We provide a comfortable environment where you can explore all the included features and available personal choices. We provide a vast selection of high-performing products and materials. We will help you coordinate your design selections with your personal style, so your new home will feel uniquely yours.

3rd FINAL DESIGN STUDIO APPOINTMENT

REVIEW AND FINALIZATION APPOINTMENT (1‐2 hours)

During this appointment, you will review the selections made at your two previous appointments and make final decisions about your new home selections. At the conclusion of this appointment, we ask homebuyers to approve selections by authorizing them with a signature on the Selection Sheet. Only those items noted on the selection sheet will be ordered and installed in the home, despite anything else that may have been discussed.

To deliver your new home in a timely manner, with the quality and attention to detail you expect, all selections must be finalized within 21 days from the date the home is slotted into production.

It is important that homebuyers review and finalize the design selections with their Design Studio Consultant in person. If you live out of state or for some reason you are unable to attend your Final Design Studio Appointment in person, we will plan to finalize selections via video conference.

Please keep a copy of the signed Selection Sheet for future reference. Selection Sheets are beneficial for referencing product and material information on items installed in your home.

SELECTIONS & CHOICES

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE DESIGN STUDIO APPOINTMENT

Choosing the products and finishes that will complete your new home is one of the most exciting parts of buying a new house.

Think about how you will live in each space of your new home. Gather inspiration photos, magazine clippings, online images, and fabric swatches which will help your design consultant understand your design style and vision. You can make your appointment with your Design Consultant more enjoyable and beneficial if you are well prepared.

Please dress comfortably. We will be working with many samples and moving throughout the design studio, and we want you to enjoy this experience in comfort.

While everyone is welcome, we recommend that only the buyer(s) attend the design studio appointments. Please understand the design studio contains many heavy objects and other potential safety hazards. Since we cannot guarantee the safety of children, we respectfully request that you make childcare arrangements. Additionally, you will be making important decisions which will affect you and your family for years to come and we know you want to give these important decisions your full attention.

SUBSTITUTIONS AND AVAILABILITY OF SELECTIONS

Sometimes it may be necessary for us to switch manufacturers or suppliers. It is also possible that due to manufacturer or trade partner discontinuing materials or changing their product offering, we cannot always guarantee product availability. Should a selection in your home become unavailable, your Design Studio Consultant will contact you promptly to make an alternate selection. We will make every effort to provide a similar product replacement. Additionally, the materials available when your home was built may no longer be available in the future if a replacement is necessary.

SELECTIONS & CHOICES CONT.

COLOR AND FINISH VARIATION

Samples and displays seen in online home tours, model homes, and in the Design, Studio are only representative of what will be installed in your home.

Variations in color and finish can occur in all manufactured products. Although every attempt is made to provide consistency, variances can be seen due to a variety of factors such as lighting, dye lot and manufacturer updates.

Some products such as natural stone, granite, and wood products (stairs, handrails, flooring, etc.) are products of nature. Variations in texture, color, veining, and pattern are to be expected. These differences are part of what makes the product unique, and you should not consider them as flaws.

COUNTERTOP SEAMS

Granite and quartz countertops are manufactured in specific sizes to ensure the countertop can be transported and fabricated safely. A seam is the place where two individual stones are joined together. Seams are often unavoidable, especially in larger applications. For smaller surfaces, like a bathroom vanity top, a seamless countertop is usually possible. There are many factors that determine seams, such as the length of the space, type of granite or quartz, and size of the slab. However, we make every effort to place seams in the most inconspicuous and most effective location for safe fabrication.

EXTERIOR COLOR CHOICES AND ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD

You can choose from a variety of expertly crafted color collections to ensure an aesthetic balance and enhance your streetscape while protecting your new home's value.

It is also important that exterior color selections are approved by the Architectural Review Board in your community. As a result, the community is visually harmonious and property values are preserved.

After closing on your new home, always consult the Declaration of Restrictions for approval procedures and other information prior to making any additions, alterations, or improvements to your home.

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

OVERVIEW OF CONSTRUCTION

It is our privilege to be able to build you a quality Robuck home. The standards we use to build your home are:

. Local building codes.

. Accepted construction standards in this area.

. Guidelines outlined in our warranty documents and according to National Association of Home Builders and our own high standards.

In order to maintain the highest possible quality, we subcontract each part of building your home to specialty trades. To ensure our high standards of construction, we only allow Robuck Homes trade partners, suppliers, and employees to work on your home. Homeowners are not covered by our insurance, so consequently cannot perform any work in the home until after closing.

Since each home is individually constructed by different trade partners under varying weather conditions and with materials supplied by different suppliers, we cannot guarantee that your home will be identical to any other of our homes you have seen. Each home is uniquely hand-crafted, therefore, none of our homes is an exact duplicate of another.

In order to maintain smooth and efficient operations, Robuck Homes uses Even Flow scheduling. All of our home starts, building cycle times, and completion rates are consistent. The efficiency and reliability of this system is just one of the ways we add value to your new Robuck home.

COMMUNICATION EXPECTATIONS

On the job site, the Builder acts like a Concert Conductor. He knows every piece of music, and when the orchestra needs to play each part. It is the builder’s job to ensure each trade shows up when needed, completes the work on schedule, and does that work to an acceptable quality level. The builder is often juggling many different things, so if you see them on-site, allow them time to finish what they are doing before trying to speak with them.

One change can affect other aspects of your home. In order to eliminate misunderstandings, please do not request changes with a supplier or trade partner. Change requests must be submitted in writing to your Sales Associate. Email is the most efficient way of communicating with your builder. Communication via email helps to ensure that all important details are documented.

START OF CONSTRUCTION

Pre-Construction Process

Once your sales agreement/contract is completely accepted and delivered to all parties, the process begins.

Your Builder Team will contact you to explain the first steps of the construction process which include: scheduling your Design Studio selection meeting if applicable, review of the floorplan and confirming structural options.

START OF CONSTRUCTION CONT.

CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE

. On-site review of Construction Schedule

. Codes & Permit

. Homesite

Easements

Setbacks

Right of ways

Grinder pumps

Septics & bedroom counts

Impervious

. Plans & Specifications

. Foundation & Crawl Sapce

. Framing

. Trade Contractors / Private Home Inspectors

. Homeowner Orientation

. Closing On Your Home

. Closing Location, Documents, Preparation (Checklist)

. Closing Appointment

. Moving Preparation (Checklist)

HOMESITE INFORMATION

The location and finished architectural design of your home on the property is governed by several factors:

. Building restrictive covenants of the subdivision

. Topography of the home site and water drainage

. Location of houses on either side of your site

Robuck Homes prefers to locate the garage on the high side of the home site so there is a minimum number of steps leading into the house. This is important, not only for convenience of entry, but for water drainage and aesthetics.

HOMESITE INFORMATION CONT.

EASEMENTS

An easement is a limited right to use another person's land for a stated purpose. For example, an easement may allow someone to use a road on their neighbor's land to get to their own. Easements may also be used to lay railroad tracks or electrical wires.

USE OF THE EASEMENT

The person who uses the easement (the "easement holder") has a duty to maintain the easement. The easement owner may repair and improve the easement so long as it does not interfere with the easement holder's use and enjoyment of the easement. The easement must be used for its original purpose, though the scope of use may change to suit the reasonable development of the dominant tenement.

HOW DO EASEMENTS WORK IN NORTH CAROLINA?

How does it work? An easement on your property does not mean that someone else owns part of your property. It simply means that another party has a nonpossessory interest in your property. This means that other parties will be able to access your property or use a part of your property for a specific reason.

HOMESITE INFORMATION CONT.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF EASEMENTS

DRAINAGE EASEMENTS

Drainage easements serve a purpose and are created to designate areas for the passage of surface water runoff. Individual property owners are responsible for the maintenance of any portion of a recorded drainage easement that is located on their property.

UTILITY EASEMENTS

As a potential homeowner, you may assume you have unencumbered access to the property you intend to buy. However, the property deed may come with a utility easement. In that case, another party would have access to your property without your permission to make changes that you may or may not agree with. Utility easements are a fairly common issue that homeowners can face with their property lines.

Without these types of easements, it could be difficult for utility companies to provide services to our modern lifestyles, such as water, electricity, and sewage.

A utility easement is created by state or local law, and it gives utility employees the right to access infrastructure located on private properties. Utility easements are sometimes categorized as affirmative easements because they give the utility company legal access to your property, but only for a specific use.

When you purchase a new home, it’s common to find pre-existing utility easements on the property. While this may sound troublesome, utility easements benefit most homeowners. If you want your home to have running water, electricity, cable, and sewer systems, then you’ll need a utility company to manage these services.

When there’s a problem, your utility company will need to access your cables or sewer system to make repairs. This type of easement doesn’t give utility companies free rein to do whatever they want on your property. However, they may be able to install new equipment as long as it’s for the good of the community. This is legal regardless of whether you agree with their decision to make changes.

Some utility easements can even limit what you can do with your property. For instance, you may be prevented from planting trees or installing any equipment that could interfere with local power lines.

HOMESITE INFORMATION CONT.

PRIVATE EASEMENTS

Private easements are property rights that can be created and sold or given by the property owner to another party. For instance, let’s say your neighbor wants to access your land to install solar panels. You have the right to either grant access or refuse to sell a private easement.

Where private easements become tricky is when they have the potential to affect future homeowners. For example, if you grant your neighbor a private easement, this can affect anyone you sell the home to in the future. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check if there are any private easements on a property before buying a home.

Private easements may not be a problem, but depending on the terms, they can limit what you’re able to do with your property. Private easements should be listed on the title.

EASEMENTS BY NECCESITY

Easements by necessity are created for those situations when another individual must access your property. These will sometimes be called access easements and are created because of the government’s long-standing interest in making the land productive.

An example would be living in a rural area and your neighbor is landlocked and can only access the road by crossing your property. In this situation, an easement by necessity would be created, and your neighbor would have the right of way.

You don’t have the right to stop this type of easement because it would cause an unnecessary burden to your neighbor. You’d be negatively impacting your neighbor’s right to access the main road.

PRESCRIPTIVE EASEMENTS

A prescriptive easement is a property right granted to someone who doesn’t own the underlying property. The easement is created because the non-owner had already been using the property in a hostile, open and notorious manner for a period of time as defined by the laws of the property’s state.

Suppose that your neighbor starts parking in your driveway without your permission. You don’t stop them, and they continue to do it year after year. As unfair as it may seem, by illegally accessing your property, they can gain a right to access it. That’s because the court could see your failure to stop them as an act of concession on your part.

HOMESITE INFORMATION CONT.

If you feel like someone’s repeatedly trespassing on your property, it’s essential to act quickly. Failure to act could result in the court granting your neighbor a prescriptive easement to access a portion of your property.

When you have a utility easement on your property, the utility company may have a range of legal rights. A few restrictions you might face include: Utility company access without your approval: You may want to know who will be working on your property and when, but the utility company may not have to provide that information.

Restrictions on physical alterations: You may want to make an improvement to a certain section of your property, but the utility easement may prevent certain upgrades due to the utility lines, such as installing an in-ground swimming pool or erecting a fence.

Vegetation restrictions: The utility company may require regular access to a particular area and constantly tear up your garden. Additionally, many utility easements limit the planting of major trees in a specified area.

If you’re considering purchasing a property with a utility easement, it’s a good idea to set aside some time to research your local laws and regulations. The exact requirements will vary based on your unique utility easement.

SETBACK REQUIREMENTS

Setback requirements are rules and regulations that affect the location, size, height, and even the shape of any structure or building added to the property. One of these restrictions is known as a setback or setback requirement, which gives the town or municipality the ability to dictate the distance from the property line where a home can be built.

PRIVATE STREETS

The streets are not and are not proposed to be constructed to standards for subdivision streets sufficient to allow their acceptance for inclusion into the North Carolina State maintained highway system.

All responsibility for maintenance of the streets in the subdivision will be borne by the property owners and/or the Homeowners Association. The responsibility includes, but is not limited to, mowing the road shoulders, road repairs, snow removal, and repaving. Some communities are subject to private streets.

HOMESITE INFORMATION CONT.

GRINDER PUMPS

A sewer grinder pump grinds up wastewater produced in a home and pumps it into the public sewer system, or certain septic systems. A grinder pump is placed in a tank (or well) that is buried in an outdoor location on a homeowner’s property or installed indoors. When water is used in the house, wastewater flows into the tank. When the wastewater in the tank reaches a pre-set level, the grinder pump automatically turns on, grinds the waste, and pumps it out of the tank via the homeowner’s on-site sewer service line and into the public sewer system.

SEPTIC SYSTEM

The main job of a septic tank is to hold dirty household water that comes from bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other areas of your home. This water is then filtered into the area around it where it is fully cleaned. Septic tank systems work by using:

. Gravity to move wastewater

. A holding tank for the wastewater

. Anaerobic bacteria inside the tank

. Drain fields

. Aerobic bacteria outside the tank

IMPERVIOUS SURFACE

Impervious surfaces are those areas which prevent or impede the infiltration of stormwater into the soil as it entered in natural conditions prior to development. Common impervious areas include, but are not limited to, rooftops, sidewalks, walkways, patio areas, driveways, parking lots, storage areas, compacted gravel and soil surfaces, awnings and other fabric or plastic coverings.

Impervious surfaces mean any hard surface that prevents or hinders the absorption of water into the soil, or that causes reduced quality of runoff water, or causes water to runoff in greater quantities or at greater flow rates than the natural surface.

HOMESITE INFORMATION CONT.

How Impervious Surface Impacts Stream Health

“Impervious surface” refers to all hard surfaces like paved roads, parking lots, roofs, and even highly compacted soils like sports fields. The problem with impervious surfaces is that they prevent the natural soaking of rainwater into the ground and slowly seeping into streams. Instead, the rainwater accumulates and flows rapidly into storm drains. This results in severe harm to streams in three important ways.

1. Water Quantity: storm drains deliver large volumes of water to stream much faster than naturally occurring, resulting in flooding and bank erosion. Stream inhabitants are stressed, displaced, or killed by the fast-moving water and the debris and sediment it brings with it.

2. Water Quality: pollutants (gasoline, oil, fertilizers, etc.) accumulate on impervious surfaces and are washed into the streams.

3. Water Temperature: during warm weather, rain that falls on impervious surfaces becomes superheated and can stress or kill stream inhabitants.

Trees

Removal of trees is a necessity to build your home. Our goal is to save as many as possible. But this also is governed by the subdivision's Architectural Approval Committee and the location of the home. Unfortunately, because of the demanding construction process, there may be stress or damage to some of the remaining trees near the home, and they ultimately may die. WE CANNOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR TREES THAT DIE FOR ANY REASON BEYOND THE CLOSING OF YOUR HOME.

Cutting roots to lay phone lines, cable TV, sewer lines, etc. pose the greatest risk for tree damage. It is recommended to avoid changing soil grade at trees and to not pile building material around trees. Trees that have the best chance of surviving the traumas listed above are young, healthy trees. The risk of dying is greater for damaged older trees or trees that already show signs of disease. Trees that are least tolerant of having their bark nicked: Dogwoods, Beech, or Sycamore. Most recent research shows that tree paint is not the proper way to treat bark wounds. Fresh air alone works best to help the tree survive a nick in the bark. The tree will dry out at the nick and seal up to prevent further damage. Applying tree paint to a damaged tree is like painting wet wood. Some of the paint will stick and some will not, so the tree dries unevenly at the damaged area. This uneven drying causes a tree to crack in this area, further damaging the tree.

HOMESITE INFORMATION CONT.

Building Permits

Depending on the city or county, the building permit process and timing will vary. Custom structural options may require more time for the permit application process as revisions to engineered plans may be required. During this time we are gathering all of the necessary paperwork to begin the construction of your home.

Safety

A new home construction site is exciting, but it also can be dangerous. Safety for everyone on the job site is of utmost importance to Robuck Homes. Because of this, we have several safety requirements you must observe. We ask you to refrain from being in the home during framing due to federal OSHA regulations. It is possible to visit your home at certain times during construction if you make arrangements ahead of time, and a member of our staff accompanies you. When you are permitted to visit the job site, we reserve the right to require that you wear a hard hat and observe the following safety precautions:

. VISIT THE SITES ONLY WHEN THERE ARE NO WORKERS ON THE JOB - large grading equipment or delivery vehicles may not see you. Workers inside your home need time and space to get their work done in order to keep the schedule moving on your home.

. Keep older children within view and younger children within reach.

. Do not walk backwards, even one step. Look in the direction you are moving.

. Watch for boards, cords, tools, nails, or construction material.

. Do not attempt to enter any level of a home that is not equipped with stairs and rails.

. Stay a minimum of six feet from all excavations.

REMINDER: Our construction systems are designed to provide you with the quality and value that Robuck Homes is used to delivering for our homeowners. Consequently, we must direct and maintain control over the work being done on your home. Any interference with anyone walking through the house during working hours can affect not only the safety, but the progress and schedule of your home. Your cooperation with these guidelines is very much appreciated.

MEETINGS

Meeting at the Home Site

Depending on the community, if your homesite has not been cleared, your Builder Team will schedule a time for you to walk your home site prior to the clearing, if applicable. Your home will be staked on the site at that time. Due to the construction schedule and the timing of trade partners, if you are unable to make this appointment, it may not be able to be rescheduled. At this meeting you will review:

. Explanation of placement of home on the home site.

. Top of foundation vs. curb.

. Location and shape of driveway, sidewalks, pull-offs, etc. including any slopes to expect.

. Location of utilities.

. Grading, clearing, and tree policy.

. Marking of trees to be saved - possible construction damage to saved trees.

. Drainage, swales, and easements.

. Waterproofing of foundation.

. Explanation of foundation drain.

. Brief schedule of clearing, digging footing and foundation.

. Explanation of basement (if applicable).

. Association approval of landscaping.

Pre-Construction Orientation

After the design selections have been finalized, the first meeting with your builder is the Pre-Construction Orientation. This is an important meeting as every aspect of your home’s construction will be reviewed. Topics covered during this meeting:

. Site plan details – perimeter markers, location of home and driveway

. Home Details – approximate height of home foundation, driveway grading, any need for swells or of the water-diversion, elements.

. Construction – Overview of the construction process

. Contract to Purchase details – specifications and options included in contract, design selection sheet, floor plan layout, electrical and wiring locations, warranty manual, home inspections.

. Schedule – construction start date

MEETINGS CONT.

Pre-Drywall

Orientation

The Pre-Drywall Orientation is the second building milestone for you to meet with your builder during construction. After completion of rough plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, and prior to insulation and sheetrock, the builder will walk through your home with you. The purpose of this orientation is to:

. Answer any questions regarding your home.

. Review the remaining schedule of your home.

. Check locations of the electrical, low voltage and mechanical rough-ins.

Please understand the importance of making this appointment in a timely manner. If your schedule does not allow you to meet during the allotted times available, your Builder and Sales Associate will be happy to walk through the house together and report back to you. In order to meet your closing date and deliver a quality home, it is important to stay on schedule.

It is suggested that you take photos of pipe and wiring locations in your new home for future installation of pictures or anything that you may hang on the walls to ensure you know the locations of all pipes, wires, etc. that could be damaged.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Finishing Stages

As materials are being installed and your home is nearing completion, there will be many items you may see that need attention. Builders are generally aware of these items and may choose to correct them at one time rather than contacting a trade partner each time they notice a need for a repair or correction. This makes the process much more efficient and saves both time and money. If you feel there is an item that may possibly get overlooked, please contact your Builder Team to discuss it. We are always happy to address any concerns.

Robuck Homes Quality Check

When your builder has completed your home, it will be checked for structural and cosmetic items. This is a very thorough review. The builder will address any items that need attention.

Private Inspections

In the event you hire a home inspector to do a structural/mechanical inspection, the date of the inspection must be approved by Robuck Homes in advance. You should ensure that your home is ready for an inspection so that the inspector can check all necessary items. It is important to give your Builder Team a 7 DAY NOTICE for scheduling.

MEETINGS CONT.

Homeowner Orientation

Your Robuck Homes Builder Team will schedule a Home Orientation approximately seven to ten days prior to closing. The Home Orientation introduces you to your new home, how it operates, and how to care and maintain it. In addition to making sure the house meets the quality standards we expect, it allows you to confirm the installation of selected options. During your orientation, we will confirm that all surfaces are in good and acceptable condition. Any details that need attention will be listed for correction on your orientation forms.

Your builder will demonstrate how to use the appliances and systems in your home, and you will be provided with the manufacturer's warranty manuals. Additionally, you will learn how to enhance your new home's appearance, functionality, and livability through certain maintenance procedures.

Your builder will meet you at your new home for the Home Orientation. It will be scheduled Monday – Friday between 8:00AM and 3:00PM. We ask that you allow 2 to 2½ hours to complete this meeting. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes so that you can take an active part in the process.

According to our experience, buyers benefit most from Home Orientation when they can focus all their attention on their new home. We understand that your friends and family are eager to see your new home; however, we suggest they visit at another time. We also encourage you to make other arrangements for children and pets if possible.

It would be beneficial for you to bring your Robuck Homes Red Book, selection sheets, and any approved changes with you so that we can answer questions you may have quickly and conveniently.

On the day of closing, you will have a final review with your builder to inspect and confirm completion of any punch items from the New Home Orientation that were agreed upon and documented on your orientation checklist.

Upon completing the New Home Orientation, you should feel confident operating and maintaining your new home, be familiar with how to file a warranty claim after closing, and most importantly; be excited to move into your new home.

*Mail away closings: There is only one orientation with your builder. Approvals are necessary by your builder if a family member or buyer’s agent is to perform this meeting on behalf of you.

PRE-CONSTRUCTION ORIENTATION

CONTRACTUAL INFORMATION

Review Construction Specifications

Review Structural Options

Review all Options

Review Floor Plan

Review Selection Sheet

Review Customer Care and

Warranty Manual

Review Private Inspection Policy

SITE PLAN REVIEW

Plot Plan w/ Property Boundaries

Setback Requirements

Lot Clearing (Where applicable)

Easements and Right of Ways

Drainage and Swales

Utility Locations

Garage (Left or Right)

Foundation Height Estimate

Flood Zones or Buffers

WHAT IS NEXT?

Start date projection

Pre-Drywall Meeting Date (Closing Set)

Homeowner Orientation Meeting

Confirmation Meeting

Communication in the Construction Process

If you have questions or concerns as your home is being built, Robuck Homes recommends you write them down and address them at our pre-designated meetings. If that is not possible, please email your builder to set up a time beneficial to you and the Builder.

Visitations to the Site in the Construction Process

Robuck Homes encourages you not to visit your home during normal business hours. During construction on your home, we want to avoid any chance of injury to you.

Construction Process Cleanliness

Robuck Homes is passionate about jobsite cleanliness but bear in mind the construction process has certain inevitable “ugly” phases like framing, grading, and other groundwork.

NOTES

The above items have been fully explained and understood by the homebuyer(s).

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICS

Rough Plumbing

Rough HVAC

Rough Electrical

Verify Telephone and Cable

Locations

Framing Features

Insulation R-Values

Fireplace

Truss Design for Storage Areas

Review Plot/Drainage Pattern

CONTRACTUAL INFORMATION

Review Contract

Review all Options

Review Floor Plan

Review Telephone and Cable

Review Color Selections

Review Customer Care Procedure

Closing Notification

Pre-Settlement Meeting 1

Pre-Settlement Meeting 2

Home Inspector and Radon Test WHAT IS NEXT?

Builder Signature and Date

PRE-DRYWALL ORIENTATION

SNAP SOME PHOTOS

This is the perfect opportunity to take some photos of the “skeleton” of your soon-to-be Robuck Home! Consider the following:

o Location of pictures o Location of future shelves

o Pipe Locations

o Wire Locations

CONSTRUCTION IN THE COMING WEEKS

In the next few weeks your Robuck Home will be undergoing drywall installation and finishing, utility connections, and concrete flatwork installation. These weeks will not witness the dramatic changes you have seen in the previous weeks, so stick with us, we are working hard!

QUALITY INSPECTIONS

Up to this point, your home has been the subject of multiple municipal “rough in” inspections. Some of these include groundwork, foundation, framing, and rough mechanicals. As we near the end, and all the finishes are put into place, the municipality will need to sign a “final” inspection per the NC Residential Building Code. Robuck Homes will perform its own Quality Inspection to ensure that the home meets our high building standards. Additionally, you may procure a private home inspection if you wish. Please be sure to get a date for this inspection from your builder. Above all, we want you to be satisfied with the quality level of your home.

The above items have been fully explained and understood by the homebuyer(s).

Homebuyer Signature and Date

Homebuyer Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

HOMEOWNER ORIENTATION

PURPOSE: Provide the homebuyer with information on operating equipment and inspect the home for any items that require attention. Review Homebuyer Maintenance responsibilities. Ensure the homebuyer understands the warranty and performance standards and how to obtain service from Robuck Homes.

PLEASE INITIAL THE FOLLOWING

Exterior Doors OK

Garage Door OK

Windows & Screens OK

Lawn & Landscaping OK

Interior Doors & Trim OK

Appliances OK

Bathroom Vanities OK

Bathroom Countertops & Sinks OK

Plumbing Fixtures OK

Bathtubs OK

Kitchen Cabinets OK Mirrors OK

Kitchen Countertops OK Lights Fixtures OK

Kitchen Backsplash OK

Vinyl/Tile /Hardwood Floors OK

Kitchen Sink and Faucet OK Carpet OK

Any exception to the above list must be noted on this form. The Builder will complete these items prior to the second Homeowner Orientation. The homebuyer(s) will not be able to close until all items are signed off as 100% completed.

We have inspected the home and the items above and have found them in good condition except as noted. We realize that cracks in concrete, masonry, and interior walls and ceilings may develop from natural causes beyond the control of the Seller or Builder who, under such circumstances, are not liable for these cracks. The Seller and Builder agree to complete the above exceptions as soon as possible.

Homeowner Orientation

I/we acknowledge that this is a comprehensive list of outstanding items that must be completed prior to closing.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

Builder Signature and Date

Homeowner Sign Off

I/we acknowledge that all outstanding items listed above are completed to my satisfaction. There are no outstanding items.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

Builder Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

HOMEOWNER

CONTINUATION OF HOMEOWNER ORIENTATION FORM PAGE 1 EXCEPTION LIST. The Builder will complete these items prior to the second Homeowner Orientation. The homebuyer(s) will not be able to close until all items are signed off as 100% completed.

We have inspected the home and the items above and have found them in good condition except as noted. We realize that cracks in concrete, masonry, and interior walls and ceilings may develop from natural causes beyond the control of the Seller or Builder who, under such circumstances, are not liable for these cracks. The Seller and Builder agree to complete the above exceptions as soon as possible.

Homeowner Orientation

I/we acknowledge that this is a comprehensive list of outstanding items that must be completed prior to closing.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

Builder Signature and Date

Homeowner Sign Off

I/we acknowledge that all outstanding items listed above are completed to my satisfaction. There are no outstanding items.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

Builder Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Pre-Settlement Orientation Warranty Contractual Acknowledgement

The homebuyer(s) acknowledge that they have received and read Robuck Homes Red Book and agree that the contents of this manual will be used in determining the responsibility of the builder for all aspects of the warranty on this new home.

The homebuyer(s) acknowledge that they are not relying on any other agreement or promises, verbal or written, from any employee of Robuck Homes regarding warranty standards.

Homebuyer has fully been explained and understands the above items.

Builder Signature and Date Homeowner Signature and Date Homeowner Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ATTORNEYS & EXPENSES

PREFERRED ATTORNEY TEAM

You have the option of working with one of our preferred attorneys. There is no direct association, ownership interest, or financial benefit between Robuck Homes Triangle, LLC, the preferred lender, or the title insurance company. Our attorneys provide excellent customer service and have a comprehensive understanding of our communities and closing procedures. This is beneficial to homeowners and ensures that our buyers can close in a timely manner.

OUTSIDE ATTORNEYS

Robuck Homes Triangle, LLC may charge $100 a day for closings delayed with a non-preferred attorney or title insurance company, as dictated by the originally scheduled closing date.

CLOSING EXPENSES

Robuck Homes shall pay for the preparation of the deed and for the excise tax (revenue stamps) required by law. The buyer shall pay for recording the deed. Each shall pay their own attorney’s fees unless otherwise agreed upon.

PRORATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS

Unless otherwise provided, the following items shall be prorated and either adjusted between the parties or paid at closing.

. Ad valorem taxes on real property shall be prorated on a calendar year basis to the date of closing.

. Ad valorem taxes on personal property for the entire year shall be paid by Builder.

. All late listing penalties, if any, shall be paid by Builder.

. Homeowner's association(s) dues shall be prorated to the date of closing.

You will need to ensure the following items are done prior to your closing date:

. All lender requirements are complete

. All insurance requirements are adequate for your lender

. Initial closing disclosure has been reviewed & approved

. Funds have been wired to the attorney. Cashier's check can be accepted; however, the receipt of funds may not be confirmed in time for release of keys.

WHAT IS AN HOA?

WHAT IS AN HOA?

A Homeowners Association, also known as HOA, is the organization that upholds a set of rules or covenants for its residents. When a homeowner purchases a home in an HOA, they automatically become members. At the time of contract, the homebuyer acknowledges receipt and acceptance of the legally binding documents in the association’s Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions.

Homeowners associations typically collect fees or dues, referred to as assessments, which are payments rendered by homeowners to the association tasked with overseeing the community. These fees generate funds to support the maintenance of essential services such as insurance, common spaces, landscaping, and additional amenities.

HOA COVENANTS

The Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions, commonly referred to as CC&Rs, defines the neighborhood guidelines that homeowners must follow. The specific guidelines can vary in each community but universally outline the rights and obligations of homeowners and the association.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF HOA COVENANTS

There are several reasons why homeowners’ covenants are important.

Covenants typically contain guidelines pertaining to property maintenance, architectural guidelines, and landscaping requirements, all with the goal of upholding the aesthetic appeal of the community, thus sustaining property values over time.

Covenants can include guidelines regarding noise levels, pet ownership, and other conduct aimed at encouraging harmonious living between residents.

In addition, covenants can establish the process for developing, enforcing, and amending the rules of the homeowners association (HOA). They outline the responsibilities of homeowners’ as well as the HOA board.

It is the goal of homeowners covenants to create a desirable living environment for all residents, while preserving property values and investments.

WARRANTY

Please read through the Robuck Homes “One-year Limited Warranty” provided in this manual prior to closing as you will be asked to sign it at closing indicating that you have read and understand the warranty.

Upon confirmation that all paperwork and funds are received by the attorney, you will receive the keys to your new home.

It will be necessary to take care of the following after closing:

. Upon closing, notify utility companies of your move and transfer all utilities into your name.

. Complete the online survey from AVID Ratings.

. Sign up for the warranty login for your 60 day/1 year walk through.

GETTING YOUR KEYS

Security is an important to Robuck Homes. When a home is being built, the lock system allows access to the home with a special master key. However, at closing, you will be provided with your personal keys. After you have used your new personal key in the lock system, our master keys are “locked out” and the lock will no longer accept the master keys. You have the only keys that will fit the locks for your home, and no one will be able to access your home except you.

Keys will not be distributed to homeowners during the construction process. If you would like to access your home during non-working hours after the locks have been installed, you may see the onsite sales agent and they will be happy to assist you in getting into the house. For your protection, Robuck Homes must have control over your home as it is being constructed and finished.

UTILITIES

Apply for all utilities one to two weeks prior to your closing date and schedule service to be transferred as of the date of your closing. For utilitiy companies and their phone numbers, please refer to page 63 of this book.

NOTES

POWER & GAS

Duke Energy progress 1-800-452-2777

Domion Energy 1-877-2427

Parker Gas 919-300-4311

Suggested Gas Companies for Stove & Gas Logs (Wilmington)

. Parker Gas 910-681-0901

. Suburban Propane 910-799-0420

. Sneads Ferry LP 910-327-2541

WATER, SEWER, TRASH & RECYCLING

City of Raleigh 919-996-3245

Chatham County (Water) 919-542-8270

Chatham County (Recycling) 919-542-5516

Johnston Co. Public Utilites 919-989-5075

Onwasa 910-329-7081

Pender Co. Utilities (Water) 910-259-1570

Pluris (Sewer) 1-888-758-7471

Town of Angier 919-639-2071

Waste Industries 910-256-2021

PHONE & CABLE

Spectrum 1-855-243-8892

AT&T 1-866-861-6075

Dish Network 1-866-471-4877

DirecTV 1-855-833-4388

Spectrum (Wilmington) 910-317-8441

AT&T (Wilmington) 910-508-8206

NOTES

HOME CARE AND WARRANTY

OUR WARRANTY PROMISE

You may be surprised to learn that the typical new home has more than 3,000 components. Each home is unique and over time adjustments are necessary. Continuous maintenance is essential to preserving a quality home for a lifetime. Most of these adjustments can be performed easily if you know what to look for and understand why they occur.

Robuck Homes provides you with a 1-Year Limited Warranty and a 10-Year Structural Warranty on your home. We highly recommend that you read the warranty guidelines prior to submitting any warranty service requests. This will help you understand the difference between homeowner maintenance and warrantable service item. You will be asked to sign at closing indicating that you have read and understand the warranty.

If you experience a catastrophic system failure, even during the first year of home ownership, you will need to contact your homeowner's insurance claims office to be sure that you are covered for all damage that may result from the failure. System failures resulting from homeowner neglect or lack of maintenance are not covered by your builder's warranty even during the first year of your home.

Robuck Homes provides two opportunities for you to request warranty service on your new home. We offer a 60-day service after the closing of your home, and 11-month service, just prior to your one-year anniversary. Please note the date for your 60-day service to submit your request in a timely manner. You will receive a reminder letter for your 11-month list. All requests for non-emergency warranty service MUST be made in writing.

*Please Note: If you sell your home within the one year, the warranty is non-transferrable.

der letter for your 11-month list All T ear,

HOW TO SUBMIT A SERVICE REQUEST

Our primary goal at Robuck Homes is to serve our homeowners in the best way possible. We believe that our online warranty portal is one of the great ways in which we can do this with accurate and efficient management of your warranty items.

You will receive an email from BuildPro noreply@hyphensolutions.net that outlines the instructions for My Home Portal Activation. Please use the warranty portal to submit your 60-day list and 11-moth warranty items. You may also visit myhome.hyphensolutions.com and submit your list of warranty items online.

We address service requests in the order they are received, so please be prompt in submitting your requests. Once your list is received, your builder representative will contact you to schedule the warranty review.

Sample Email

Congratulations on your new home, and welcome to your new Homeowner Portal! With the Home Portal website, you can submit new warranty requests as well as review all warranty requests from your computer or smartphone or tablet.

Get Started Now!

You can activate your user by clicking HERE.

You will need to enter your email address and password each time you use the system. You can change your email address and password at any time by selecting the My Profile section located in Home Warranty.

Please verify the information that was entered for you by going to the My Profile section located in Home Warranty. If any of the information is incorrect, you may make any necessary changes, and then click on the Save button.

Thanks again and if you have any questions or issues, please contact our Support Team.

Please do not respond to this message. It is part of a notification-only system and does not accept incoming email.

All warranty work must be performed during normal business hours. We pride ourselves on our professional warranty staff, and we hope you will trust them with the warranty of your home. It is our intention to handle warranty items as quickly and efficiently as possible.

BUILDER INITIATED WARRANTY SERVICES

60-DAY SERVICE

The 60-Day service is an opportunity for inspection to ensure the home is performing within the standards established in the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) guidelines. Now that you have settled in your new home, you may still have questions regarding its operation or need a review on your new home warranty.

If you request service on a home maintenance item, we will review the maintenance steps and how you should take care of the item. Robuck Homes does not provide routine home maintenance.

11-MONTH SERVICE

A Robuck Homes warranty representative will contact you via email approximately 11 months after your closing date to remind you of your upcoming warranty service.

Robuck Homes offers a complimentary visit that we call the 11-Month Service Request. It is important to address any warrantable repairs before the expiration of the one-year warranty. Upon receiving your 11-month warranty reminder, please complete this information as soon as possible.

Once your list is received, an appointment will be scheduled for your warranty review. At this meeting, your Builder will review your list of warrantable items and determine a date for the warranty work to be performed.

As part of this process, the Builder will also discuss emergency warranty items as well as how to contact the trade partner if an emergency occurs after hours or on weekends. There will also be a time for your builder to discuss any maintenance questions you have.

Emergency as defined by Robuck Homes limited warranty includes:

. Total Loss of Heat

. Total Loss of Electricity

. Plumbing Leak that requires the entire water supply to be shut off

. Total loss of water

. Total sewer stoppage

. Or a situation that endangers the occupants of the home

WARRANTY SAMPLES

The warranty on your home is a very important part of the quality reputation that Robuck Homes has built over the years. It is through this reputation and our commitment to you, our homeowners, that we provide a limited warranty. This warranty includes supplemental details about one-year material and workmanship standards. The purpose is to let you know what our quality standards are for the common concerns which typically arise in a new home. For each item, our standards are described and what our obligation as your builder is to remedy the items.

Our goal is for all our customers to be completely satisfied with their new Robuck home. For you to be satisfied with your home, you must first understand the difference between defects, which are warranted, and maintenance items that are the responsibility of the homeowner. Reading through the standards should help you to understand our warranty coverage and to minimize misunderstandings.

At closing you will be asked to sign that you have READ AND UNDERSTAND the warranty. This copy is provided for your review prior to closing. We encourage you to read through the information carefully. Should you have any questions regarding the standards, please contact either your sales agent or our on-site builder.

ROBUCK HOMES TRIANGLE, LLC

ONE-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

5th EDITION

Robuck Homes Triangle, LLC extends the following One-Year Limited Warranty to __________________________, hereafter referred to as the homeowner, who has contracted with Robuck Homes for purchase of the home located on Lot ______________ in the subdivision of _________________________________, with the address of _________________________________________________ in _______________________ County, state of _________, for the purchase price of $_________________________________________.

Coverage

During the first year of warranty – which begins on the day of the closing of your home – Robuck Homes warrants that the home will be free from:

1. Significant defects in materials or workmanship as defined in the attached Performance Standards.

2. Significant defects in the plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems as defined in the attached Performance Standards, which includes wiring, piping, and ductwork in the systems.

3. Defects in appliances, fixtures, and equipment including their fittings, attachments, and control according to the manufacturer’s warranty. This one-year warranty may be voided due to homeowner’s negligence or improper maintenance or service by someone other than Robuck Homes and their trade partners.

Robuck Homes’ Obligation

If a defect in materials or workmanship occurs on an item during the first year of warranty and it is covered by this warranty, Robuck Homes will repair, replace, or pay the homeowner the reasonable cost of repairing or replacing the defective item. Robuck Homes’ total liability under this warranty is limited to the purchase price of the home. The choice to repair, replace or pay for the defective item is the decision of Robuck Homes. Any steps taken by Robuck Homes to correct defects shall not act to extend the term of this warranty. All repairs of a warrantable item by Robuck Homes shall be at no charge to the homeowner and shall be performed within a reasonable length of time.

Homeowner’s Obligation

The homeowner must provide normal maintenance and take proper care of the home according to this warranty, the warranties of the manufacturers of consumer products, and the generally accepted standards of the state of North Carolina. Robuck Homes must be notified in writing by the original homeowner of any defect before Robuck Homes is responsible for the correction of that defect. Robuck Homes must receive written notice of a defect prior to the expiration of the warranty on that defect. No action at law or in equity may be brought against Robuck Homes by the homeowner for failure to correct or repair any defect about which Robuck Homes has not received timely notice in writing. The homeowner must allow Robuck Homes access to their home to inspect the defect reported and, if necessary, to take corrective action during normal business hours.

Insurance

In the event that Robuck Homes repairs, replaces, or pays the cost of repairing or replacing any defect covered by this warranty for which the homeowner is covered by insurance, or a warranty provided by another party, the homeowner must, upon the request of Robuck Homes, turn over the proceeds of such insurance or other warranty to Robuck Homes to the extent of the cost to Robuck Homes of such repair or replacement.

Exclusions

1. Cosmetic damage, which is considered scratches, chips, marks, stains, and cracks, to the following items are not covered after the home is closed and belongs to the homeowner: countertops, vanity sinks, tubs, mirrors, cabinets and vanities, bath accessories, walls unless settling cracks or nail pops have occurred, carpet, vinyl floors, hardwood floors, light fixtures, and appliances.

2. All landscaping items, unless otherwise noted on the Homeowner’s Orientation List (including shrubs, trees, plantings, sod, seeded and strawed yards).

3. Damage to any property that is not included in the purchase price of the home.

4. Any damage that is caused by or made worse by:

a. Condensation or dampness due to the failure of the homeowner to maintain adequate ventilation.

b. Changes in grading of the ground by anyone other than Robuck Homes or their trade partners.

c. Failure by the homeowner to give notice to Robuck Homes of any defects within a reasonable period of time.

d. Failure by the homeowner to follow the warranty requirements of the manufacturer of appliances, equipment, or fixtures.

e. Neglecting the proper maintenance and/or operation of any of the systems covered under this warranty.

f. Additions, changes, or alterations made to the home by anyone other than the ones performed under the obligation of this warranty.

5. Loss or damage to the land.

6. Normal deterioration or normal wear and tear.

7. Loss or damage to the home, to persons or property directly or indirectly caused by wild or domestic animals, insects, rodents, birds, or vermin.

8. Any loss or damage which may occur while your home is being used primarily for non- residential purposes.

9. Any damage caused by soil movement, including subsidence, expansion, or lateral movement of the soil, which is covered by any other insurance or for which compensation is provided by state legislation.

10. Loss or damage as a result of accidents, riots, civil commotion, or acts of God (including fire, explosion, earthquake, land shock waves or tremors, smoke, flood, windstorm, hail, lightning, water escape, ice, snow, falling trees, aircraft, vehicles, mudslides, sinkholes, and changes in the level of underground water tables).

11. Any defect in, or as a result of, materials or labor supplied by someone other than Robuck Homes, its employees, or trade partners.

12. Negligent maintenance or operation of the home and its systems by anyone other than Robuck Homes, its employees or trade partners.

13. Any part of a private or public water supply system, inclusive of the volume and pressure of water flow.

14. Any part of a private or public sewage disposal system, including the design.

15. Any damage or loss which the homeowner has not prevented or minimized in a timely manner.

16. Any defect as a result of mildew, rot, moisture, or rust.

17. Sound proofing and sound transmission between floors or between rooms.

18. Appliances and equipment included in the home by Robuck Homes but covered by a separate warranty provided by the manufacturer or supplier. These warranties are given by Robuck Homes to the homeowner either prior to closing or at closing.

19. Cost of living expenses such as transportation, storage, food, moving and shelter or other incidental expenses related to relocation during a repair.

20. Bodily damage or property damage due to structural damage or defects (including defects in electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, or any other items covered under the limited warranty).

21. The removal and/or replacement of any item or items not included in the limited warranty, such as personal property items, wallpaper, different colors of paint, or landscaping not originally installed by Robuck Homes where removal and replacement are required to take care of the repair.

22. Any warranted defects that the homeowner repairs without prior written authorization or knowledge of Robuck Homes.

23. Changes in grading due to erosion.

24. Additions or modifications to the home or property under or around the home that are made after the effective date of the limited warranty (except those made to meet the obligations of this warranty).

25. The weight and/or performance of any type of extremely heavy furnishings, including but not limited to waterbeds, exercise equipment, pool tables and aquariums which exceed the load-bearing design of the home.

26. The presence (or results) of pollutants and contaminants such as radon, formaldehyde, carcinogenic substances, or the presence of toxic or hazardous materials resulting in health risks within the home or the home becoming uninhabitable.

Arbitration of Dispute

If any disputes involving this agreement should arise, the homeowner shall promptly contact Robuck Homes’ warranty department. If discussions between the homeowner and Robuck Homes do not resolve such dispute, then either party may, upon written notice to the other party, submit such dispute to arbitration with each party selecting one arbitrator, who shall then select the third arbitrator. The arbitrators shall proceed under the construction industry rules of the American Arbitration Association. The award of the majority of the arbitrators shall be final, conclusive, and binding upon the parties. The expenses of the arbitrators shall be shared equally, but each party shall be responsible for its own fees and costs.

Exclusive Warranty

Robuck Homes and the homeowner agree that this limited warranty on the home is in lieu of all warranties of habitability or workmanlike construction or any other warranties, expressed or implied, to which the homeowner might be entitled, except as to consumer products. No employee or trade partner of Robuck Homes has the authority to change the terms of this One-Year Limited Warranty.

DATED this _____________________ day of __________________________ , 20_____.

(Owner) (Builder)

(Owner)

ROBUCK HOMES TRIANGLE, LLC

TEN-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Robuck Homes Triangle, LLC extends the following Ten-Year Limited Structural Warranty to __________________________________________, hereafter referred to as the homeowner, who has contracted with Robuck Homes for purchase of the home located on homesite __________in the subdivision of _________________________________________________ with the address of _______________________________________________________________________________ in Wake County, state of North Carolina, for the purchase price of $____________________.

Builder warrants that the Residence will be free from any defect which: (a) results in or causes actual, tangible damage to a "Load-Bearing Component" of the Residence, and (b) materially diminishes the structural integrity and the load-bearing performance of the Residence. Only a defect or defects meeting the criteria listed in (a) through (b) above shall be deemed a "Major Structural Defect." This Warranty also covers damage to the roof, walls or foundation of the Residence resulting from expansion, subsidence, or lateral movement of the soil, provided that such damage is caused by a Major Structural Defect as defined above. The term of this Major Structural Defect Warranty shall be ten (10) years beginning on the date of actual closing.

As used above, the term "Load-Bearing Component" means only the following: (1) roof framing members (rafters and trusses); (2) floor framing members (joists and trusses); (3) bearing walls; (4) columns; (5) lintels; (6) girders; (7) load¬bearing beams; and (8) foundation systems and footings.

The following items are NOT Load-Bearing Components and defects thereto shall not be covered as Major Structural Defects pursuant to this Section: (a) non-load-bearing partitions and walls; (b) wall tile or wallpaper; (c) plaster, laths or drywall; (d) flooring and subflooring material; (e) brick, stucco, stone or veneer; (f) any type of exterior siding; (g) roof shingles, sheathing and tar paper; (h) heating, cooling, ventilating, plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems; (i) appliances, fixtures or items of equipment; and (j) doors, trim, cabinets, hardware, insulation, paint and stains.

DATED the __________________ day of ______________________________, 20____________.

(Owner) (Builder)

(Owner) (By)

PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES, MAINTENANCE AND WARRANTY

APPLIANCES

At the final walkthrough, Homeowners have signed that all appliance surfaces are in satisfactory condition.

The appliance manufacturers warrant their products directly to you in accordance with the terms and conditions of their warranties. These warranties will be given to you at the Home Orientation.

Please remember to mail the warranty registration cards directly to the manufacturer OR Submit registration through the manufacturer’s website.

Please be sure to read and follow all manufacturers’ instructions for the use and maintenance of each appliance in your home and keep them available for reference. The instructions will be in a packet in a kitchen drawer which will be pointed out to you at your Home Orientation.

The following appliances are covered by a manufacturer's warranty and are not covered by Robuck Homes' One-Year Warranty: Range, Microwave, Dishwasher, Disposal, Ovens, Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Water Heater, HVAC Blower, and Condenser Units.If a problem arises with an appliance after you have closed and moved into your home, please call the service center number provided on your subcontractor list that is given to you at your Homeowner Orientation.

When reporting warranty items to the appliance service center, be prepared to supply the foll owing details:

1) Date of purchase.

2) Serial and model numbers, found on a metal plate or sticker on the side or bottom of each appliance.

3) Description of the problem.

Observations: Electric appliance fails to operate

Performance Standard: See manufacturer’s warranty & troubleshooting tips

Robuck Responsibility: Appliances are not covered under this warranty.

Discussion: While rare, it is possible that faulty electrical or mechanical systems could be the root cause of appliance issues. Below are several common tips to review.

Ensure the appliance is plugged in before you call a repair service. If the appliance is separately wired, be sure the circuit breaker is still in the on position. (See "Circuit Breakers.")

If a gas appliance with a standing pilot light fails to work, ensure the pilot light is lit. Note that many gas appliances now use electronic ignition if you suspect a gas leak, turn off the main gas valve near the meter and call the gas company immediately.

Warning: Do not light matches, smoke cigarettes, make phone calls, or turn lights on or off in the vicinity of the suspected leak.

ATTICS

Many homes are built with manufactured trusses and do not have usable storage space in the attic. Attics are accessed with stairs as walk-ups, pull-down stairs, weather doors, or scuttle holes. Access is required for any area over 400 sq ft. Access to an attic does not determine if the attic is engineered for storage. Attics should not be used for storage unless your floorplan specifically denotes an area for storage.

If your home has designed storage areas, it is best to distribute the weight of any storage items to help prevent nail pops on the ceiling below and to eliminate unnecessary strain on joists/rafters/trusses. Be careful not to put too much weight on your attic floor, which protects delicate insulation and may not be as strong as the floors in the living areas of your home. Attics are susceptible to extremes of heat and cold because attic walls usually are not insulated. Materials stored in attics should not be combustible or perishable under these extreme temperatures.

Your home has been constructed to be energy efficient. Be certain that materials stored in the attic do not compress the insulation because compressed insulation is less effective. This is true of both blown cellulose and traditional fiberglass insulation. Where the insulation meets the roof near the eaves, baffles are used to provide a gap for air to circulate from the soffit into the attic. Occasionally, the insulation on the attic floor may be out of place and leave gaps or block the path of attic ventilation. If either of these situations occurs, return the insulation to its proper location. Protect your skin, eyes, nose, and mouth if you will be handling fiberglass insulation. The attic access cover may have insulation attached to the top side. It should also remain securely in place so that less heat is lost through the access hole. Use caution when walking in attics. Do not step onto the insulation. There is nothing supporting the insulation other than the ceiling below. Doing so would result in personal injury and/or damage to the ceiling below.

Observation: Moisture in Attic

Performance Standard: It is not unusual to have some moisture appear in the attic due to high humidity or wind driven rain/snow. Vents are located at the soffits as well as the ridge of the roof. Wind can drive water through the openings. This can be more common during storm events such as hurricanes but can happen during normal rain events as well.

Robuck Responsibility: Water present in attic spaces due to humidity and wind driven moisture are not leaks and are not covered under warranty.

Discussion: See additional section titled “Roof” for more information regarding leaks.

Observation: Insects in Attic

Performance Standard: Screens are installed over attic vents and need to be checked periodically. However, insects can penetrate through small openings or screens on occasion.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Insects within the home are not covered by the warranty.

Discussion: See Additional Section titled “Pests” for more information regarding insects

BATH ACCESSORIES

Observation: Scratches or chips in bath accessories, shower enclosures or mirrors

Performance Standard: Robuck Homes will confirm that all bath accessories, shower enclosures and mirrors are in good condition during the homeowner orientation. Damage noted at this time will be corrected.

Robuck Responsibility: The builder will correct bath accessories, shower enclosures and mirrors that do not to meet the performance standard. Repairing chips or scratches after the closing is the homeowners’ responsibility.

Discussion: Avoid abrasive cleansers on fixtures. Clean mirrors with non-acidic products which can leave black edges on your mirrors. The automotive department of a name brand store should carry glass cleaners without ammonia and vinegar. Clean bath accessories with mild soap and water or nonabrasive cleanser.

CABINETS

The homeowner selection sheet details the brand, style, and finish of your cabinets. Cabinets should never be cleaned with harsh abrasives. It is recommended that cabinetry be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep cabinet doors and drawers closed when not in use. Occasionally, check the cabinet hinges and screws to make sure they have not worked loose.

Observation: Gaps/Space between cabinets and ceiling/walls.

Performance Standard: Cabinets should be flush to walls. Some separation is common and should be expected within certain tolerances. Gaps greater than ¼ inch in width are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Robuck Homes will repair the gap with caulk, putty, scribe molding, or will reposition/reinstall cabinets to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Cabinets do not line up with each other.

Performance Standard: Cabinet faces more than one-eighth inch out of line, and cabinet corners more than 3/16 inch out of line are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make necessary adjustments to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A cabinet door or drawer front is warped.

Performance Standard: Door or drawer warpage should not exceed ¼ inch as measured from the face frame to the point of furthermost warpage not including bumpers, with the door or drawer front in closed position.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct or replace doors and drawer fronts as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Do not operate small appliances that generate large amounts of moisture directly under the cabinets (Ex. Opening dishwasher mid heat cycle releasing steam onto cabinets and countertops). Open bathroom doors and/or run vents for circulation while showering to prevent excessive moisture buildup that may damage or warp vanities. Failing to control indoor relative humidity may cause warpage that exceeds the Performance Standard. Doors or drawers that warp under these conditions are not considered defective. I t is the homeowner's responsibility to control temperature and humidity in the home.

Observation: A cabinet door or drawer binds.

Performance Standard: Cabinet doors and drawers should open and close with reasonable ease.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will adjust or replace cabinet door hinges and/or drawer hardware as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A cabinet door/drawer will not stay closed.

Performance Standard: The catches or closing hardware for cabinet doors/drawers should be adequate to hold the doors/drawers in a closed position.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will adjust or replace the door catches or closing hardware as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: It is important to not force doors or drawers into position if there is resistance. Allow for soft close hardware to fully operate before diagnosing binding issues.

Observation: Cabinet doors or drawer fronts are cracked, scratched, gouged, dinged, or dented.

Performance Standard: Cabinet doors and drawer fronts should not crack.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The homeowner and builder inspect and sign off on the condition of the cabinets at the final walkthrough. Any cracks or damage noted during the walkthrough will be repaired or replaced by the Builder. Any new cracks or damages noted after closing are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Discussion: Paint or stain on the repaired or replaced door or drawer front may not match the stain on the existing panels or drawer fronts. Grain patterns or intensity cannot be matched perfectly. The builder will use his or her best efforts to match as closely as possible the stain on the existing panels or drawer fronts. However, some species of wood will age and darken over time and an exact match may not be possible. Use of manufacturer-provided touch-up kits is acceptable to address minor imperfections in the cabinet finish.

Observation: Cabinet units are not level.

Performance Standard: Individual cabinets should not have a deviation of more than 3/16 inch out of level.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will level cabinets to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A cabinet frame is out of square.

Performance Standard: A cabinet frame, when measured diagonally from corner to corner, should not exceed a difference of more than ¼ inch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace the cabinet to meet the performance guideline.

Observation: Cabinet doors do not align when closed.

Performance Standard: Gaps between doors should not deviate more than one-eighth inch from top to bottom.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will adjust doors to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Adjacent cabinet doors rub or knock each other when opening and closing.

Performance Standard: When operating only one door, there should be no knocking or rubbing of adjacent doors. However, in full overlay cabinets when operating two adjacent doors simultaneously knocking, rubbing, and binding can be expected.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

CONCRETE

Concrete expands and contracts as it reacts to differences in temperature. This normal expansion will cause cracks in concrete floors, drives, and walkways. Because concrete is hard and rigid it will crack, flake, chip, and erode. We have placed control joints and expansion joints at appropriate intervals in walks and drives to help control cracking. Due to its porous composition, concrete will absorb such things as petroleum- based products, solvents, and paints. When a liquid enters concrete, it can seep from either top to bottom or bottom to top.

DO NOT DRIVE MOVING VANS OR OTHER HEAVY VEHICLES ON CONCRETE DRIVEWAYS.

Do not wash your exterior concrete with cold water when temperatures are high, and the sun has been shining on the concrete. The change in temperature can damage the surface bond. Keep your concrete clean by sweeping. Concrete can deteriorate from salt, chemicals, mechanical implements, or other factors. Deterioration from these things is not warranted.

Observation: Horizontal Cracks and/or vertical displacement of structural concrete in footing, foundation, and basement walls.

Performance Standard: Horizontal cracks and/or vertical displacement outside of pre-de signed expansion/contraction locations should not exceed 3/16 inch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If there is vertical or horizontal cracks or displacement outside of pre-designed expansion/contraction locations exceeding 3/16 inch, Robuck Homes will have a licensed engineer of their choice determine if the crack/displacement is a result of a structural defect. In the event of a defect, Robuck Homes will follow the licensed engineer’s recommendation. In the event the crack/displacement is non-structural and aesthetic in nature, Robuck Homes will fill the crack. The repaired area may not match the existing area in color and texture.

Discussion: Minor concrete cracking is normal and to be expected. Control joints are placed in the concrete to help control cracks and provide a less visible area for them to occur. Cracking can be caused by elements outside of the builder's control. Often patching or filling aesthetic cracks can draw more attention to the area and is better left alone.

Observation: The concrete floor or slab is uneven. The concrete floor has ridges or valleys.

Performance Standard: Except where the floor or portion of the floor has been designed for specific drainage purposes, concrete floors in living areas should not have pits, depressions, or areas of unevenness exceeding three-eighths inch in thirty-two inches.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct or repair the floor to meet the Performance Guideline

Discussion: A repair can be accomplished by leveling the surface with a material designed to repair uneven concrete.

Observation: Horizontal Cracks and/or vertical displacement in concrete floors or slabs.

Performance Standard: Cracks exceeding 3/16 inch in horizontal or vertical displacement will be repaired.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair vertical cracks that do not meet the Performance Standard.

Corrective Measure: Robuck Homes will repair horizontal or vertical cracks that do not meet the performance standard using a material designed to fill cracks in concrete. Any crack that creates a trip hazard will be ground down to be within the performance standard.

Discussion: Cracking in concrete slabs and/or flatwork is often aesthetic in nature. The repaired area may not match the existing area in color and texture. Cracking can be caused by elements outside of the builder's control. Often patching or filling aesthetic cracks can draw more attention to the area and is better left alone.

Observation: Standing water on slab or sidewalk

Performance Standard: No standing water of ¼ inch or more 24 hours after rain

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Standing water ¼ inch or more 24 hours after rain will be corrected.

Corrective Action: Concrete will be replaced in affected areas only to the nearest control / expansion joint. Entire slab will not be replaced.

Discussion: The repaired area may not match the existing area in color and texture

Observation: Flaking or chipping of the concrete surface.

Performance Standard: No salt, brine or ice melt should be left on concrete surfaces or left on concrete after driving through brine.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder

Observation: Stains or marking on concrete.

Performance Standard: Any staining or marks should be noted prior to closing. Any items not marked prior to closing will not be repaired.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: Efflorescence is present on the surface of the basement floor, or concrete wall.

Performance Standard: If the efflorescence is caused by basement water leakage (actual flow and accumulation of water) the builder will mitigate the leaks into the structure.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Robuck Homes will repair to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Efflorescence is evidenced by the presence of a white film on the surface of the concrete. It is a particularly common occurrence where masonry or concrete are in contact with high moisture levels as may be found in basements. Sometimes the moisture is introduced during the building process and the efflorescence is a result of the previous moisture.

Observation: Interior concrete is pitting or spalling. Pitting is evidenced by concrete that has chipped. Spalling is evidenced by concrete that has flaked or peeled from the outer surface.

Performance Standard: Interior concrete surfaces should not pit or spall unless the deterioration is caused by factors outside of the builder's control.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair concrete surfaces using materials designed for this purpose.

Observation: The interior concrete slab has a loose, sandy surface, sometimes referred to as "dusting."

Performance Standard: The surface should not be so sandy that it causes a problem when the finish flooring is applied.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The surface will be repaired to be suitable for the finish flooring that the builder had reason to anticipate would be applied.

Observation: Stoops or steps have settled, heaved, or separated from the home structure.

Performance Standard: Stoops and steps should not settle, heave, or separate more than one inch from the home structure.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will use his or her best judgment in making a reasonable and cost-effective effort to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A garage concrete floor has settled, heaved, or separated.

Performance Standard: The garage floor should not settle, heave, or separate more than one inch from the structure.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will use his or her best judgment in making a reasonable and cost-effective effort to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: The repaired area may not match the existing floor in color and texture.

Observation: Adjoining exterior concrete flatwork sections deviate in height from one section to another.

Performance Standard: Adjoining concrete sections should not deviate in height by more than ½ inch unless the deviation is intentional at specific locations such as at garage door openings.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair deviations to meet the Performance Standard.

Corrective Action: Robuck Homes will remove and replace the affected section of concrete to the nearest expansion/control joint(s).

Discussion: The repaired area may not match the existing area in color and texture.

Observation: A sidewalk and other exterior concrete flatwork has settled.

Performance Standard: Adjoining concrete sections should not deviate in height by more than ½ inch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair deviations to meet the Performance Standard.

Corrective Action: Robuck Homes will remove and replace the affected section of concrete to the nearest expansion/control joint(s).

Discussion: The repaired area may not match the existing area in color and texture.

COUNTERTOPS

At the time of your Home Orientation, we confirm that all countertops are in good condition. Any surface damage such as scratches, chips, cracks, or imperfections must be noted in writing at the Home Orientation or prior to closing.

It is recommended that a cutting board be used to protect your counters when you are chopping, cutting, or using any sharp utensil. Countertops are generally heat and stain resistant under normal use, but they should be protected from hot pots, pans, or baking dishes taken from an oven or stove top. Do not place anything extremely hot directly on the countertop.

Granite countertops are porous and therefore a sealant has been applied to your granite prior to installation. By sealing granite, you reduce the risk of etching, dull spots, and staining caused by dirt and spills. To improve stain resistance, annual sealing is recommended.

Quartz can be cleaned easily with a mild detergent, water and a soft cloth or paper towel. Avoid abrasive cleansers, harsh scouring pads and bleach-containing cleansers on quartz countertops. Stone surfaces do not require polishing to keep them shiny, but they should be cleaned gently to preserve their distinctive shine. Certain honed or matte finishes may require extra care during routine cleaning.

Observation: Cracks in caulking at the backsplash where your countertop meets the wall.

Performance Standard: There should be no cracks larger than one-eighth inch between countertops and tile backsplashes. Any crack greater than one-eighth inch will be corrected during the warranty period.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: We will re-caulk any separations between the wall and the countertop if they exceed 1/8 inch at the one-year warranty.

Discussion: Any area of your home where two large surfaces meet is an opportunity for expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes. A common area for this to occur is between your countertop and walls. This can be especially prevalent on kitchen walls that are on the exterior of the home. Routine maintenance of the caulk will help to avoid any damage caused by spills or splashes.

Observation: Countertops are visibly scratched.

Performance Standard: At the time of the Home Orientation Walkthrough, countertops should be free of scratches visible from six feet under normal lighting conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair scratches in the countertop to meet the Performance Standard prior to closing. Any scratches noted after closing are the Homeowner’s responsibility.

Discussion: Minor imperfections and scratches will be more visible in dark, glossy tops.

Observation: A countertop is not level.

Performance Standard: Countertops should be no more than three-eighths inch in ten feet out of parallel with the floor.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make necessary adjustments to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A granite, marble, stone, or solid-surface countertop is cracked.

Performance Standard: At the time of the Home Orientation there should be no cracks in the countertops.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Any cracks noted should be corrected prior to closing. Any cracks noted after closing are considered the homeowner’s responsibility.

Observation: A granite, quartz, marble, stone, or solid-surface countertop has texture or color variations.

Performance Standard: Color variations in granite, quartz, marble, stone, or solid-surface products are acceptable.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: A granite, quartz, marble, stone, or solid-surface countertop is chipped.

Performance Standard: At the time of the Home Orientation, chips greater than 1/32 inch in width are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace affected areas to meet the Performance Standards. The use of an appropriate filler is an acceptable repair.

Observation: A granite, quartz, marble, stone, or solid-surface countertop has visible seams.

Performance Standard: Seams may be visible and especially noticeable with certain countertop materials and darker finishes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: A granite, quartz, marble, or stone countertop has excessive lippage between sections.

Performance Standard: Lippage greater than 1/32 inch is considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace the countertop to meet the Performance Standard.

DECKS

The deck is one of the most desirable features for outdoor living. To protect the wood used in decks from moisture, pressure treated wood must be maintained regularly. A coat of water repellent or wood preservative should be applied to pressure-treated wood decks after the moisture from the treatment dries out. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Over time wood shrinkage will cause loose boards and nails/screws to rise. Check occasionally for loose nails/screws. Make sure loosened boards are re-nailed or re-screwed, and loose nails/screws are reset where expansion or contraction has occurred. Make sure that you do not reuse the same nail holes.

Check support posts, steps, and railings periodically to be sure they are still fastened securely. Do not sit on deck rails.

Observation: A wood deck is springy or shaky.

Performance Standard: All structural members in a wood deck should be sized, and fasteners spaced, according to the prevailing building codes, manufacturer's instructions, and engineering.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reinforce or modify, as necessary, any wood deck not meeting the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Bounce or vibrations are an inherit trait of decks and do not indicate insufficient construction or design. Deflection may indicate insufficient stiffness in the lumber or may reflect an aesthetic consideration independent of the strength and safety requirements of the lumber. Structural members are required to meet standards for both stiffness and strength.

Observation: The spaces between decking boards are not uniform.

Performance Standard: At the time of home orientation, the spaces on opposite sides of individual deckboards should not differ in average width by more than 3/16 inch otherwise agreed upon by the homeowner and the builder

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will realign or replace decking boards to meet the Performance Standard prior to closing.

Discussion: The spaces will naturally tend to change over time because of shrinkage and expansion of individual boards. The builder is only responsible for correct spacing at the time of closing.

Observation: The railings on wood decking contain slivers, splinters, or raised grain in exposed areas.

Performance Standard: Railings on wood decks should not contain slivers/splinters/raised grain longer than one-eighth inch in exposed areas.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Prior to closing, the builder will repair railings as necessary to address slivers/splinters/raised grain. Repair of these after closing is a homeowner maintenance responsibility.

Discussion: Slivers/splinters/raised grain can develop when unprotected wood weathers, and when treated wood is not maintained routinely.

Observation: A wood deck is out of level.

Performance Standard: No point on the deck surface should be more than five-eighths inch higher or lower than any other deck surface point within ten feet, unless deck material installation practice requires specific slope (i.e., tile, membrane, etc.)

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the deck as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: A slope of approximately one-eighth inch per foot is desirable in the perpendicular direction to shed water and prevent ice buildup.

Observation: Wood decking boards, railings and/or pickets are split, warped, or cupped.

Performance Standard: At the time of the Home Orientation, splits, warps, and cups in wood decking boards, railings and/or pickets should not exceed the allowances established by the official grading rules issued by the agency responsible for the lumber species specified for the deck boards.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will replace decking boards, railings and/or pickets as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A wood deck has applied stain color variations.

Performance Standard: Stain color variations are not acceptable if they result from improper stain application or failure to mix the stain properly. Stain color variations resulting from other causes such as weathering or natural variations in the wood used to build the deck-are common and are not covered by this guideline.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If the builder stained the deck, and if the stain color variations are a result of improper stain application, then the builder will re-stain the affected area to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A fastener protrudes from a decking board.

Performance Standard: Fasteners should not protrude from the floor of the deck.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Prior to orientation, the builder will ensure that all fasteners that protrude from the floor of the deck are properly installed so that the heads are flush with the surface.

Discussion: Fasteners should be driven or screwed flush when the deck is installed, but they may pop from a wood deck over time as the wood shrinks and expands. After closing it is the home owner’s responsibility to maintain and secure the fasteners, so they do not become a trip hazard or potential cause of injury.

Observation: Fasteners on a wood deck are bleeding.

Performance Standard: Stains extending more than ½ inch from the fastener and readily visible from a distance of ten feet are not acceptable.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will eliminate fastener stains to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: The repaired area may not match the existing deck area in color and texture. This guideline does not apply if natural weathering or semi-transparent stains are specified.

Observation: A deck railing lacks rigidity.

Performance Standard: Deck railings should be attached to structural members in accordance with the prevailing building codes and engineering.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair deck railings as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

DOORS & WINDOWS

EXTERIOR DOORS

Observation: An exterior door is warped.

Performance Standard: Exterior doors should not warp to the extent that they become inoperable or cease to be weather-resistant. A ¼ inch tolerance as measured from the face of the door to the face of the frame will be tolerated.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct or replace exterior doors that do not meet the Performance Standard within the warranty period.

Discussion: Most exterior doors will warp due to the difference in the temperature and humidity between inside and outside surfaces; A ¼ inch tolerance as measured from the face of the door to the face of the frame will be an acceptable tolerance.

Observation: Raw wood shows at the edges of an inset panel inserted into a wood exterior door during the manufacturing process.

Performance Standard: This is a common occurrence in wood doors with panels.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Since this occurrence is common, no corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Wood products expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Wooden inserts are intentionally loosely fitted into the rails by the manufacturer to allow the inserts to move, which minimizes splitting of the panel or other damage to the door. Homeowner can refer to their selection sheets to identify the stain or paint color used so they can touch up these areas as part of their routine home maintenance.

Observation: A wooden door panel is split, cracked, or checked.

Performance Standard: A split, crack, or check in a panel should not allow light to be visible through the door.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will repair and paint or stain the split panel that does not meet the Performance Standard. Caulking and fillers are acceptable.

Discussion: Wooden inserts are loosely fitted into the door to allow the inserts to move, which minimizes splitting of the panel or other damage to the door. On occasion, a panel may become “locked” by paint or expansion of the edges with changes in temperature and humidity and no longer “float” between the rails. This may result in the panel splitting. The repainted area may not blend with the remainder of the door or other doors on the home. Doors exposed to sunlight will aged more rapidly. This will require repainting, or sanding and finishing more frequently.

Observation: An exterior door sticks or binds.

Performance Standard: Exterior doors should operate smoothly, except that door may stick during occasional periods of high humidity or with variations in temperature.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will adjust or replace the door to meet the Performance Standard if the problem is caused by faulty workmanship or materials.

Discussion: Exterior doors may warp or bind to some degree because of the difference in the temperature and/or humidity between inside and outside surfaces. Any changes to originally installed door hardware, weather stripping or other door components that cause improper operation are not the builder’s responsibility.

Observation: An exterior door will not close and latch.

Performance Standard: Exterior doors should close and latch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Builder and Homeowner review the operation of doors and latches at the final walkthrough. Any issues noted at this time are to be completed prior to closing. All latching issues identified post-closing are considered homeowner maintenance.

Discussion: Exterior doors may warp or bind to some degree because of the difference in the temperature, humidity, or both, between inside and outside surfaces. Latching also can be affected by natural settling. Subsequent adjustments may be necessary by the homeowner during seasonal changes.

Observation: The plastic molding on the primary door behind the storm door melts from exposure to sunlight. Caulking or glazing on the primary door behind the storm door cracks or peels.

Performance Standard: It is a common occurrence for the plastic molding behind storm doors to melt. It is also common occurrence for caulking or glazing on the primary door behind the storm door to crack or peel.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Any aftermarket storm doors will void warranty on door installed by builder. No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Plastic moldings may melt or deform if the exterior door is covered by a storm door during a warm season, or if it faces the sun. This is not a defect of the door, but a problem caused by the trapping of heat between the primary door and the storm door. High temperatures may cause glazing and caulking to harden and/or fail prematurely if the door is covered by a storm door during a warm season or if it faces the sun. This is not a defect of the door, caulking, or glazing, but a problem caused by the trapping of heat between the primary door and the storm door. The homeowner is also cautioned to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on painting the moldings. Dark colors will tend to absorb more heat.

Observation: A door swings open or closed by the force of gravity.

Performance Standard: Exterior doors should not swing open or closed by the force of gravity alone.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will adjust the door to prevent it from swinging open or closed by the force of gravity during the warranty period.

Discussion: As a home adjust to seasonal changes it is common for doors to need adjusting. These changes can affect both the door swing, as well as the door fitment in the jamb.

Observation: The reveal around an exterior door edge, doorjamb, and/or threshold is uneven.

Performance Standard: Gaps between adjacent components should not vary by more than 3/16 inch along each side of the door.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair existing unit to meet performance guideline

Discussion: Doors must have gaps at their perimeter to accommodate expansion/contraction due to variations in temperature and/or humidity and to enable the door to operate over a wide range of environmental conditions.

Observation: Air movement or light is observed around a closed exterior door.

Performance Standard: Weather stripping will be installed and sized properly to seal the exterior door when closed to prevent excessive air infiltration.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will adjust exterior door unit or weather stripping to meet Performance Standard. Any gaps greater than ½" of daylight or air infiltration are considered too large to remediate via weather stripping and the door will require adjustment.

Discussion: Doors must have gaps at their perimeter to accommodate expansion/contraction due to variations in temperature and/or humidity and to enable the door to operate over a wide range of environmental conditions. Weather stripping seals the gaps required for proper operations to prevent excessive air infiltration. At times of high wind or temperature differentials inside the home and outside, there may be noticeable air movement around a closed door’s perimeter. A small glimmer of light seen at the corners of the door unit is normal. Weather stripping should be kept cleaned and maintained by the homeowner.

Observation: Exterior door hardware or kickplate has tarnished.

Performance Standard: Finishes on door hardware or kickplates installed by the builder are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Hardware exposed to direct sunlight will have an accelerated life cycle due to the harsh exposure.

Observation: A sliding patio door or screen does not stay on track or does not roll smoothly. Performance Standard: Sliding patio doors and screens should slide properly on their tracks at the time of the Orientation Walkthrough. The cleaning and maintenance necessary to preserve proper operation are homeowner responsibilities.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Proper operation should be verified by the homeowner and the builder at the time of the Orientation Walkthrough.

Observation: A doorknob, deadbolt, or lockset does not operate smoothly.

Performance Standard: A doorknob, deadbolt, or lockset should not stick or bind during operation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Doorknobs, deadbolts, and locksets should operate properly at the time of the Orientation Walkthrough. Seasonal changes in temperature and humidity will cause expansion and contraction of the door and frame that may result in the Homeowner need to adjust door or locks to accommodate changes.

Discussion: Locksets may feel heavy or stiff but are operating as intended by the manufacturer. This can be true for locksets of all price ranges. Often weather stripping can cause misalignment of deadbolts and strikes. A careful balance must be achieved between the smoothness of the hardware function and the air seal of the weather stripping.

INTERIOR DOORS

Observation: An interior door is warped.

Performance Standard: Except as noted, interior doors should not become inoperable due to warping. A ¼ inch tolerance, as measured diagonally from corner to corner, is acceptable.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct or replace and refinish defective doors to match existing doors as closely as practical within the warranty period.

Discussion: In bathroom or utility areas, exhaust fans or an open window must be used to minimize moisture to prevent warpage of door units.

Observation: A pocket door rubs in its pocket during normal operation.

Performance Standard: Pocket doors should operate smoothly during normal operation. This is to be confirmed at the homeowner Orientation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Pocket doors commonly rub, stick, or derail because of the inherent nature of the product. It is common for the door to also rub against the guides provided by the manufacturer. Normal use can cause wear on the paint where in contact with rails / guides / frame.

Observation: A door rubs on jambs or builder-installed floor covering.

Performance Standard: Doors should not rub on jambs or builder-installed floor covering. At the time of Home Orientation doors should be inspected and approved. Settlement and seasonal changes will require routine homeowner adjustment to ensure the proper function of doors.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: A door edge is not parallel to the door jamb.

Performance Standard: When the builder installs the door frame and door, the door edge should be within 3/16 inch of parallel to the door jamb. Any deviation noted prior to closing will be adjusted. Settlement and seasonal changes will require routine homeowner adjustment to ensure squareness of door to jamb.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: A door swings open or closed from the force of gravity.

Performance Standard: Doors should not swing open or closed from the force of gravity alone. At the time of Home Orientation doors should be inspected and approved. Settlement and seasonal changes will require routine homeowner adjustment to ensure the proper function of doors.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will adjust the door as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A door hinge squeaks.

Performance Standard: Hinge squeaks are caused when metal rubs on metal. This is an inherent characteristic of door hinges.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Hinge lubricants are readily available at your local hardware store. Robuck recommends dry lubricates to avoid dripping or splashing of product on the finishes of neighboring surfaces.

Observation: Interior doors do not operate smoothly.

Performance Standard: Doors should move smoothly with limited resistance.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will adjust the door to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A doorknob or latch does not operate smoothly.

Performance Standard: A doorknob or latch should not stick or bind during operation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will adjust, repair, or replace knobs or latches that are not operating smoothly.

Discussion: Because locksets are complex mechanical devices, some may have a heavy or stiff feel to them but are operating as intended by the manufacturer. This can be true for locksets of all price ranges. Slamming doors or hanging items on the doorknob will affect knob or latch operation; it is not the builder’s responsibility to adjust or repair problems caused by such conditions.

WINDOWS

All windows are screwed into place and are designed to minimize air and water leakage. During extremely high winds, however, you may experience small amounts of air or water leakage. Windows are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for one year. The insulated glass in your windows is guaranteed against seal failure for twenty years from the date of manufacture. You will need to contact the manufacturer directly for warranty after the first year.

Observation: A window is difficult to open or close.

Performance Standard: Windows should require no greater operating force than that described in the manufacturer’s specifications.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct or repair the window as required to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Window glass is broken, or a screen or window hardware is missing or damaged.

Performance Standard: Glass should not be broken, and screens and hardware should not be damaged or missing at the Home Orientation. Screens included in the original contract will be installed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Broken glass, missing or damaged screens, or missing or damaged hardware reported to the builder prior to closing will be installed or replaced. Broken glass, missing or damaged screens, or missing or damaged hardware reported after closing are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Observation: Water is observed in the home around a window unit during or after rain.

Performance Standard: Window installation should be performed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications so that water does not intrude beyond the drainage plane of the window during normal rain conditions. Windows should resist water intrusion as specified by the window manufacturer.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct any deficiencies attributed to improper installation. Any deficiencies attributed to the window unit’s performance will be addressed by the window manufacturer’s warranty. Any deficiencies due to severe weather conditions such as but not limited to a Hurricane are not covered under warranty.

Discussion: Leakage at the glazing interface is covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Windows have a limited ability to resist excessive wind-driven rain but should perform according to manufacturer’s specifications. The homeowner is responsible for keeping weep holes clean of debris as they are designed to allow wind-driven rain to be diverted from the windowsill.

Observation: Window grids, grilles, or muntin fall out or become out of level.

Performance Standard: Window grids, grilles, or muntin should not disconnect, fall, or become out of level.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: During the warranty period, window grids, grilles, or muntin will be repaired or replaced.

Observation: Glass surfaces are scratched.

Performance Standard: Glass surfaces should not have scratches visible from ten feet under normal lighting conditions at the time of Home Orientation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace any scratched glass surface if noted prior to closing. Any scratches noted after closing are the Homeowner’s responsibility.

ELECTRICAL

A licensed electrical builder, according to the electrical codes, has installed the electrical system in your home. Your home has ground fault interrupter (GFI) circuit breakers in the kitchen, baths, garage, and outside receptacles. The slightest sign of moisture contact can trip breakers. Test the reset button on the GFI breakers once a month by pressing the test button. Press the reset button to return service. The circuit breakers are the safety valve of your electrical system. They are in the electrical panel and protect wiring and appliances by tripping off if the circuits are overloaded. Be careful not to overload the capacity of the system when upgrading or adding equipment.

Observation: A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) trips frequently.

Performance Standard: GFCls and AFCls should perform as intended and will be installed and tested in accordance with prevailing electrical codes during warranty period.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will install ground fault and arc fault circuit interrupters in accordance with the prevailing electrical codes. Tripping is to be expected; however, the builder will repair or replace components that frequently trip due to component failure or incorrect installation during warranty period.

Discussion: AFCls are installed to protect bedroom circuits and all other habitable areas of a r residence. GFCls protect outlets in wet areas (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens, garages, laundry, exterior, etc.) Because outlets protected by GFCls may be connected in a series, it may not be readily apparent that an inoperative convenience outlet is the result of a tripped GFCI in another room (not necessarily in the electrical panel). Both ground fault and arc fault circuit interrupters are sensitive devices that detect ground fault and arc fault conditions and homeowners occasionally will experience nuisance tripping. The most common causes of nuisance tripping by AFCls are damaged cords or plugs on homeowners lamps, small appliances, or other devices. Some newer vacuum cleaners and exercise equipment will not work on an AFCl-protected circuit. Static electricity, some electronic devices, televisions, computers, and printers may also cause nuisance tripping of circuit interrupters. The homeowner should pay particular attention to refrigerators and freezers, as nuisance tripping of these devices may result in food spoilage.

Observation: A circuit breaker trips.

Performance Standard: Circuit breakers should not be tripped by normal usage.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will check wiring, circuits, and components for conformity with prevailing electrical code. The builder will correct noncompliant elements during warranty period.

Discussion: Prevailing electrical code determines the types of circuits and their design loads. When maximum capacity is exceeded the fuse or breaker will trip. If a 15-amp circuit is tripped, the homeowner should try plugging the device into a 20-amp circuit to see if the device exceeds the lower capacity. Blown fuses and tripped breakers are symptoms of a problem in some part of the home’s electrical system or a consumer product connected to the system. Although components may be defective, consumer-owned fixtures and appliances usually are responsible for electrical malfunctions and nuisance tripping. The homeowner should unplug or disconnect fixtures and appliances on the circuit and then replace the fuse or reset the breaker. If the problem reoccurs, the homeowner should notify the builder.

Observation: The home has lost partial power.

Performance Standard: The electrical supply to the home should be installed in accordance with the prevailing electrical codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will check the wiring for conformity with prevailing electrical codes. The builder will correct noncompliant elements during the warranty period.

Discussion: The homeowner should check the circuit breakers and reset as needed. If this does not correct the situation, one leg of the power supply serving the home may no longer be operational. This may happen following a storm. The homeowner should contact the local utility company and report the situation. The builder is not responsible for the failure of wiring or connectors located before the service enters the home or of the adequate supply of service by the local utility company.

OUTLETS & FIXTURES

Observation: Electrical outlets, switches, or fixtures malfunction.

Performance Standard: All electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures should operate as designed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace malfunctioning electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures to meet the Performance Standard during the warranty period.

Observation: Wiring fails to carry its designed load.

Performance Standard: Wiring should be capable of carrying the designed load for normal residential use.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will verify that wiring conforms to prevailing electrical code. The builder will correct wiring that does not conform to meet the Performance Standard during the warranty period.

Observation: Interior receptacle or switch covers protrude from the wall.

Performance Standard: Interior receptacle or switch covers should not protrude more than 1/26 inch from the wall.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will adjust the covers to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Some textured wall finishes may not allow a cover to be installed flush.

Observation: The homeowner’s 220-volt appliance plug does not fit the outlet provided by the builder.

Performance Standard: The builder should install electrical outlets required by the prevailing electrical code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: The homeowner is responsible for obtaining an appliance plug that fits the outlets the builder is required to provide.

Observation: Lighting dims or flickers when other electrical devices are in use.

Performance Standard: General lighting outlets should be installed per prevailing electrical codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace outlets to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Lighting outlets are designed for moderate use devices such as clocks, radios, and lamps. When larger devices such as vacuum cleaners, copiers, space heaters and irons are added, the startup surge may cause lights to dim or flicker. Air conditioners and heat pumps have the potential to cause all light fixtures in the home to dim or flicker. All circuits have the potential for dimming.

Observation: Low-voltage lighting flickers.

Performance Standard: Low-voltage lighting should operate as designed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace malfunctioning low-voltage fixtures to meet the Performance Standard during the warranty period.

Discussion: Low-voltage transformers are sized according to the fixtures that are installed on a circuit. The transformers must have sufficient ventilation around them. Homeowners who add fixtures or change the wattage in fixtures after the circuit is designed and installed may cause the transformer to be undersized for a particular application.

Observation: Ceiling fan vibrates excessively and/or is noisy.

Performance Standard: The builder should install ceiling fans in accordance with the manufacturer’sinstructions (including blade balances).

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct any fan installation not in accordance with the Performance Standard if the fan was supplied and installed by the builder.

Discussion: There are varying levels of performance for ceiling fans and some noise or vibration may be inherent in the specific fan installed.

Observation: A smoke or carbon monoxide detector chirps or otherwise malfunctions.

Performance Standard: Detectors should operate as designed per manufacturer’s specifications and as required by local municipal codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace the smoke or carbon monoxide detector to meet the Performance Standard during the warranty period.

Discussion: Most smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are powered by both the electrical power and a backup battery. Chirping may indicate intermittent power loss, power surges or, most typically, that the battery is weak or is not installed. If the chirping occurs on a new detector, the builder will check the battery, verify that the detector is wired correctly, and replace the device if necessary. If the alarm on your carbon monoxide detector or smoke alarm sounds, evacuate the house immediately and call the fire department. Safety officials recommend that homeowners change the batteries in detectors semiannually when daylight-saving time begins and ends.

Observation: Telephone and cable television wiring do not operate as intended.

Performance Standard: Telephone and cable television wiring should be installed by the builder in accordance with the prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder shall repair telephone or cable television wiring not meeting the Performance Standard during the warranty period.

EXTERIOR FINISHES

VINYL SIDING

Observation: Vinyl siding is bowed or wavy.

Performance Standard: Some waviness in vinyl siding is expected. Waves or similar distortions in vinyl lap siding are considered excessive only if they exceed ½ inch in thirty-two inches.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct any waves or distortions to comply with the Performance Standard by reinstalling or replacing siding, as necessary. Additionally, shimming may be utilized to spread any deviations in the sheathing and studs.

Observation: Siding is faded.

Performance Standard: Any color siding, when exposed to the ultraviolet rays of the sun, will fade. The builder cannot prevent fading. However, panels installed on the same wall and under the same conditions should fade at the same rate.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder. The homeowner should contact the siding manufacturer for issues with inconsistent fading.

Discussion: Color warranties are provided by the siding manufacturer. The homeowner should contact the manufacturer with questions or claims regarding changes in color of vinyl siding. Color and fade imperfections beyond an expected degree may be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, except where siding is shaded differently from the rest of the wall, such as under shutters or behind vegetation.

Observation: Metal or vinyl siding trim is loose.

Performance Standard: Trim should not separate from the home by more than ¼ inch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reinstall trim as necessary to comply with the Performance Standard.

Observation: Vinyl siding courses are not parallel with eaves or wall openings.

Performance Standard: Any piece of vinyl siding more than ½ inch off parallel in twenty feet with a break such as an eave or wall opening is considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reinstall siding to comply with the Performance Standard and will replace with new siding any siding damaged during removal.

Observation: Nail heads show in metal trim, vinyl trim, or vinyl siding.

Performance Standard: No nail heads in the field of the siding should be exposed. Nails in vinyl trim should not be exposed. In certain application nail heads in metal trim will be exposed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will install trim as necessary to cover the nails and will install proper trim accessories to avoid face nailing where possible.

Discussion: Vinyl siding should not be face nailed. However, there are appropriate and typical occasions when a single face nail may be needed to reinforce a joint or fasten the siding to the wall when it is cut to fit around window frames, doors, roofs, or other obstructions on the wall. In most cases (the only exception would be the top piece on a gable end), vinyl siding should not be face nailed when proper accessory products are used. For example, under a window application the builder can use the J-channel trim and utility trim, and snap punch the top of the vinyl siding. If face nailing is the only option, the builder should predrill a 1/8 inch diameter hole to allow for expansion and contraction. It is common to face nail vinyl trim board utilized as window casing, door casing, frieze board, and other decorative details. Nail heads should be countersunk and filled with putty prior to painting.

Observation: Metal or vinyl siding trim accessory is loose from caulking at windows or other wall openings.

Performance Standard: At the time of homeowner orientation, all caulking should be installed and performing. Over time caulk joints will be a homeowner maintenance item as it is the nature of caulk to dry and shrink resulting in gaps.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Homeowner is responsible to maintain caulked areas.Standard.

Observation: Vinyl siding is cut unevenly.

Performance Standard: Gaps should comply with the manufacturer's guidelines.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will ensure that the appropriate trim/accessory is installed to eliminate potentially revealing site cuts. If cuts in siding panels are so uneven that they are not concealed by trim, the panel will be replaced.

Discussion: Field cut edges of vinyl siding should not be visible when proper trim and accessories are used when viewing at a perpendicular angle. When viewing j-channel trim from steep angles, it may be possible to see cut ends within the trim.

Observation: Vinyl siding is not correctly spaced from moldings.

Performance Standard: Prescribed spacing between siding and accessory trim is typically ¼ inch or should comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct the spacing to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Vinyl Siding has come loose

Performance Standard: Vinyl siding is inspected and approved at the time of Homeowner Orientation. Strong storms, such as hurricanes can cause siding panels to unlatch and flap. Siding can be easily resecured.

Discussion: Robuck recommends contacting a professional siding installer to resecure any loose pieces.

Observation: Mildew, Mold, Algae, and other stains appear on siding.

Performance Standard: At the time of Homeowner orientation the siding should be free from mildew, mold, algae, and other stains. Removal of stains after closing is considered homeowner maintenance.

Discussion: Robuck Homes recommends contacting a professional power washer to clean your home to avoid the risk of forcing water behind siding, causing leaks, or damage.

CEMENT BOARD SIDING

Observation: Cement board siding is cracked or chipped.

Performance Standard: As a cement product, this siding is susceptible to the same characteristic limitations as other cement products. Cracks more than two inches in length and one-eighth inch in width are considered excessive. Chips or dents not reported at time of substantial completion of the project are not covered.

Observation: Cracked or chipped cement board will be repaired or replaced as necessary, as determined by the builder.

Discussion: The manufacturer’s instructions include guidelines to reduce chipping or cracking of siding.

Observation: Cement board siding is improperly fastened.

Performance Standard: Siding should be nailed flush and perpendicular per the manufacturer’s instructions. Staples should not be used. Spacing and methods are dictated by the manufacturer’s instructions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct, or repair improperly fastened boards. Overdriven nail heads or nails driven at an angle can be filled with siding manufacturer’s specified product.

Discussion: Manufacturers recommend face nailing corners of siding in certain geographic locations that are exposed to higher wind speeds. This practice is limited to those areas alone.

EXTERIOR TRIM

Observation: Gaps show in exterior trim.

Performance Standard: Joints between exterior trim elements, including siding and masonry, should not be wider than ¼ inch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair open joints that do not meet the Performance Standard. Caulk is an appropriate filler for gaps ¼” or less.

Observation: Exterior trim board is split.

Performance Standard: Splits wider than ¼ inch and longer than one inch is considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair splits by filling with durable filler. Touch-up painting may not match the surrounding area.

Observation: Exterior trim board is bowed or twisted.

Performance Standard: Bows and twists exceeding three-eighths inch in eight feet are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair defects that do not meet the Performance Standard by refastening or replacing deformed boards. Touch-up painting may not match the surrounding area.

Observation: Exterior trim board is cupped.

Performance Standard: Cups exceeding 3/16 inch in 5 ½ inches are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair defects that do not meet the Performance Standard by refastening or replacing cupped boards. Touch-up painting may not match the surrounding area.

PAINT, STAIN, AND VARNISH

Observation: Exterior painting, staining, or refinishing needed because of repair work does not match existing exterior finish.

Performance Standard: Repairs required under these Performance Standards will be finished to match the immediate surrounding areas as closely as practical when viewed under normal lighting conditions from a distance of twenty feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will finish repaired areas as indicated, matching as closely as possible.

Discussion: Touch-up painting, staining, or refinishing may not match the surrounding area exactly in color or sheen because the original coating may have been exposed to sunlight, pollution, weather, and other conditions over a period of time.

Observation: Exterior paint or stain has peeled or flaked.

Performance Standard: Exterior paints and stains should not peel or flake during the first year.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If exterior paint or stain has peeled, developed an alligator pattern, or blistered, the builder will properly prepare and refinish the affected areas and match their color as closely as practical. Where deterioration of the finish affects more than fifty percent of the piece of trim or wall area, the builder will refinish the affected component.

Observation: Exterior paint or stain has faded.

Performance Standard: Fading of exterior paints and stains is common. The degree of fading depends on environmental conditions including but not limited to sun exposure.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Because fading is a common occurrence in paint and stains, no corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Robuck recommends repainting the exterior of your home every 3 to 5 years. Caulking should be refreshed every year where needed.

Observation: There is paint or stain overspray on surfaces not intended for paint or stain.

Performance Standard: Paint or stain overspray on surfaces not intended for paint or stain that is visible at a distance of six feet under normal natural lighting conditions is not acceptable.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will clean the affected surfaces without damaging the surface.

MASONRY AND VENEER

Observation: A masonry or veneer wall or mortar joint is cracked.

Performance Standard: Cosmetic cracks are defined as cracks visible from distances in excess of twenty feet or larger than ¼ inch in a non-structural member.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair cosmetic cracks in excess of the Performance Standard by tuck pointing, patching, or painting, as believed most appropriate by the builder. The builder should not be responsible for color variation between the original and new mortar or between the brick or stone and the pointing material.

Discussion: Hairline cracks resulting from shrinkage and cracks due to minor settlement are common in masonry or veneer walls and mortar joints and do not necessarily represent a defect.

Observation: Cut bricks below openings in masonry walls are of different thickness.

Performance Standard: Cut bricks used in the course directly below an opening should not vary from one another in thickness by more than ¼ inch. The smallest dimension of a cut brick should be greater than one inch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the wall to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Bricks are cut to achieve required dimensions at openings and ends of walls when it is not possible to match unit/mortar coursing. An exact match of brick and mortar after a repair cannot be guaranteed.

Observation: A brick course is not straight.

Performance Standard: No point along the bottom of any course will be more than ¼ inch higher or lower than any other point within ten feet along the bottom of the same course, or ½ inch in any length.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will rebuild the wall as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Dimensional variations of the courses depend upon the variations in the brick selected. An exact match of brick and mortar after a repair cannot be guaranteed.

Observation: Mortar stains are observed on exterior brick or stone.

Performance Standard: Exterior brick and stone should be free from mortar stains detracting from the appearance of the finished wall when viewed from a distance of twenty feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will clean the mortar stains to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Efflorescence is present on the surface of masonry or mortar.

Performance Standard: This is a common condition caused by moisture reacting with the soluble salts in the mortar.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Efflorescence is evidenced by the presence of a white film on the surface of masonry or mortar. It is a particularly common occurrence where masonry or concrete are in contact with high moisture levels because masonry products absorb and retain moisture.

Observation: There is water damage to interior walls as a result of a leak in the exterior brick or stone.

Performance Standard: Exterior brick and stone walls should be constructed and flashed according to the prevailing regulation building code or AAMA 711 to prevent water penetration to the interior of the structure under normal weather conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the wall to meet the Performance Standard, unless the water damage resulted from factors beyond the builder’s control, such as improper use of sprinkler systems, grading alterations, or any landscape alterations by others that raises the grade or impacts the proper drainage away from the walls of the structure including but not limited to mulching, decorative vine growth, leaf litter build up etc.

Discussion: Water penetration resulting from external factors such as extreme weather conditions or sprinkler systems are not the builder’s responsibility.

TABBY STUCCO AND PARGED COATINGS

Observation: An exterior stucco wall surface is cracked.

Performance Standard: Cracks in exterior stucco wall surfaces should not exceed one-eighth inch in width.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: During the warranty period, the builder will repair cracks exceeding 1/8 inch in width. Caulking and touch-up painting are acceptable. An exact color or texture match may not be attainable.

Discussion: Hairline cracks in stucco or cement plaster (parging) are common, especially if the coatings have been applied directly to masonry back up.

Observation: The color, texture, or both, of exterior stucco walls are not uniform.

Performance Standard: Exterior stucco walls may not match when applied on different days or under differing environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Stucco finishes are unique and an exact match of color, texture, or both, may not be practical; therefore, no corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Stucco includes cement-based coatings and similar synthetically based finishes. A number of variables affect coloring and texture of stucco. It is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve a color match between stucco coatings applied at different times.

Observation: Coating has separated from the base on an exterior stucco wall.

Performance Standard: The coating should not separate from the base on an exterior stucco wall.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair areas where the coating has separated from the base in accordance with the Performance Standard unless damage resulted from factors beyond the builder’s control.

Discussion: A number of variables affect coloring and texture of stucco. It is not possible to achieve an exact color and/or texture match between stucco coatings applied at different times.

Observation: Stucco is damaged, chipped, or cracked due to lawncare maintenance.

Performance Standard: At the time of the Home Orientation, exterior stucco is reviewed for aesthetic defects. After closing, the homeowner is responsible for care and protection of the stucco when maintaining areas around the home.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Great caution should be used when using power tools around stucco. Rock debris from trimmers, edgers, lawn mowers, and similar tools can cause damage.

Observation: Lath is visible through stucco.

Performance Standard: Lath should not be visible through stucco, nor should the lath protrude through any portion of the stucco surface.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make necessary corrections to meet the Performance Building Guidelines. The finish color and/or texture may not match.

Discussion: A number of variables affect coloring and texture of stucco. It is not possible to achieve an exact color and/or texture match between stucco coatings applied at different times.

Observation: Rust marks are observed on the stucco finish coat.

Performance Standard: Rust marks on the stucco surface are considered excessive if more than five marks measuring more than one inch long occur per one hundred square feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair, replace, or seal the rusted areas of wall.

Discussion: Rusting may be present in more humid climates due to the natural state of sand used in cement-based products which could include metallic components. Additionally, stucco exposed to saltwater conditions can be more susceptible to rusting.

Observation: There is water damage to the exterior wall cavity as a result of a leak in the stucco wall system.

Performance Standard: Stucco walls should be constructed and flashed to prevent water penetration to the interior of the structure under normal weather and water conditions. Damage to the stucco system caused by external factors out of the builder’s control that result in water penetration is not the builder's responsibility.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If water penetration is the result of a system failure and does not result from external factors, the builder will make necessary repairs to prevent water penetration through the stucco wall system.

Discussion: The builder is not responsible for water penetration resulting from external factors such as windblown moisture or sprinkler systems.

Moisture Barriers And Flashing

Observation: Bulk water is penetrating around a window or door.

Performance Standard: Windows and doors should be installed and flashed in accordance prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Windows and doors are not completely waterproof. They always (except fixed windows and doors) have cracks or joints through which, with enough wind pressure, wind-driven rain can penetrate.

The wind rating specifications for windows and doors are higher than the water rain events, such as short- term intense thunderstorms and tropical storms, because water can be expected to penetrate windows and doors. The homeowner is responsible for keeping weep holes clean of debris as they are designed to allow wind driven rain to be diverted from the windowsill. Exterior doors not covered by a roof can be more susceptible to leaks and great care should be used to ensure weather stripping and caulking is properly maintained.

Observation: An exterior wall leaks because of improper caulking installation or failure of the caulking material.

Performance Standard: Joints and cracks in exterior wall surfaces and around openings should be caulked to prevent the entry of water.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: At the time of Homeowner Orientation, all caulking should be installed. In the event of a leak due to caulking not originally installed Robuck Homes will repair the affected areas. If a leak is a result of improper maintenance or neglect no corrective action is required by the Builder.

Discussion: Even when professionally installed, caulking eventually will shrink and crack. Maintenance of caulking is the homeowner’s responsibility.

FIREPLACE

The proper use of your fireplace is demonstrated at the Home Orientation. It is important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance, safety, and use of your gas fireplace. The direct vent fireplace is warranted directly by the manufacturer through the distributor. A copy of the manufacturer’s limited warranty will be provided to you.

Use the same safety precautions with a gas fireplace as you would any other gas appliance. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the home, and call the gas company immediately. The glass can become extremely hot during and even long after operation. Therefore, it is important to remember that touching the hot glass can lead to serious burns. Always supervise and keep children a safe distance away to prevent accidental contact with the glass.

It is possible for the fireplace to produce a slight odor during the first few uses when the materials from manufacturing are released. Robuck Homes recommends allowing the fireplace to burn for several hours while the home is ventilated.

Observation: Scratches on glass or fireplace box

Performance Standard: Any scratches, dents, or marks on the glass or fireplace box must be noted at the Home Orientation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the affected area if noted at the Home Orientation.

Observation: The firebox paint is cracked or discolored by a fire in the fireplace.

Performance Standard: Cracking and discoloration are common occurrences.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: The consumer should obtain the recommended paint from the manufacturer to touch up the interior of the firebox for aesthetic reasons.

Observation: A decorative firebrick panel is cracked.

Performance Standard: Any cracks, scratches, dents, or marks on the decorative firebrick must be noted at the Home Orientation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: Rust is observed on the fireplace damper.

Performance Standard: This is a common condition.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: Yard debris, leaf litter, animal nests in exhaust vent.

Performance Standard: Debris and nests can occur and is considered homeowner maintenance to routinely inspect and clean vent.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

FLOORCOVERINGS

We will verify that all floorcoverings are in acceptable condition during your homeowner orientation. The builder will correct any defects discovered in normal lighting conditions during the Home Orientation. Routine maintenance of the flooring is the homeowner’s responsibility.

CARPETING

With the right care and maintenance, your new carpet will last for years. The most important step in caring for your carpet is vacuuming it thoroughly and frequently to prevent soil from embedding itself in the pile. Wipe spills and clean stains immediately. Remove as much of the spill as possible by blotting, and then add a small amount of water and blot with a towel. Always avoid scrubbing the fibers. If you need a spot removal solvent, use a product approved by The Carpet and Rug Institute of America. It is recommended to test the carpet in an inconspicuous area. If you notice a change in the carpet color, consult a professional carpet cleaner. If you see snags in the carpet, use a pair of sharp scissors to clip the snag even with the rest of the fibers. Pulling on snags can damage the carpet. Remove furniture dents by rubbing the edge of a coin across the carpet to encourage the fibers to stand back up. Depending on the traffic in your home, hot water extraction or steam cleaning which removes oils and particulates that accelerate soiling, is recommended every 12-18 months.

Observation: Carpet does not meet at the seams.

Performance Guideline: Visible gaps at the seams are considered excessive.

Corrective Measure: It is not unusual for carpet seams to be visible from a standing position. If the carpet was installed by the builder, the builder will correct visible gaps at carpet seams.

Observation: Carpet is stretched or loose.

Performance Guideline: When stretched and secured properly, wall-to-wall carpeting should not unfasten, loosen, or separate from the points of attachment.

Corrective Measure: If the carpeting was installed by the builder, the builder will re-stretch or re-secure the carpeting as necessary to meet the performance guideline during the warranty period.

Observation: Carpet has faded or discolored.

Performance Guideline: Fading or discoloration of carpet is a manufacturer’s responsibility.

Corrective Measure: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Fading or discoloration may result from the homeowner spilling liquids on the carpet, from exposure to sunlight, or from the homeowner’s failure to properly maintain the carpet.

Observation: Carpet appears to be different colors.

Performance Guideline: Carpet for a room should be ordered and installed from a single manufacturer’s dye lot. Carpet shade variance is the manufacturer’s responsibility.

Corrective Measure: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: When viewed under normal lighting conditions, carpet may have the appearance of color variations. These differences may result from the direction of the carpet nap or from fibers being crushed on the roll. Over time, vacuuming will make the appearance more uniform.

Observation: Dead spots or voids are observed in padding areas below the carpet surface.

Performance Guideline: Carpeted areas should not have dead spots or voids.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair or replace padding in the affected areas to meet the performance guideline.

Discussion: Since carpet padding comprises a number of materials of various densities and feel, there may be an inconsistent feel even with adequate coverage.

Hardwood, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), and Laminate Floors

Preventive maintenance is the primary goal of hardwood floor care. Keep your wood flooring swept, clean, and dry on a daily basis. This will prevent abrasive particulates from scratching the surface. Do not use water (including steam) on wood floors. Excessive water can cause the grain to rise, and prolonged use may cause damage from the expansion and shrinkage of the wood.

Install proper floor protectors on furniture placed on hardwood floors. Protectors will allow chairs to move easily over the floor without scuffing. Regularly clean the protectors to remove any grit that may have accumulated. Please refer to manufacturer’s guidelines on approved cleaning products and methods.

Observation: Gaps exist between hardwood floorboards.

Performance Guideline: At the time of Home Orientation, gaps between hardwood floorboards should not exceed one-eighth inch in width.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair gaps that do not meet the performance guideline.

Discussion: Gaps appearing after installation may be caused by fluctuations in the relative humidity in the home. This is a common seasonal phenomenon in some climates and certain areas of the home that experience significant shifts of humidity. The homeowner is responsible for maintaining proper humidity levels in the home.

Observation: Hardwood floorboards are cupping or crowning.

Performance Guideline: Cupping or crowning in hardwood floorboards should not exceed 1/16 inch in height in a 3-inch maximum span measured perpendicular to the long axis of the board. Cupping or crowning appearing after installation are a result of fluctuations in the moisture conditions in the home, causing a noticeable curvature in the face of the floorboards. Cupping or crowning caused by exposure to moisture or humidity fluctuations are beyond the builder’s control is not the builder’s responsibility.

Corrective Measure: The builder will correct or repair boards to meet the performance guideline if the cupping or crowning was caused by factors within the builder's control, only after the moisture content of the flooring and/or the environmental conditions have stabilized.

Discussion: The homeowner is responsible for proper maintenance of the floor and for maintaining proper humidity levels and moisture conditions in the home, crawl space, or basement.

Observation: Excessive lippage is observed along the joints of prefinished wood flooring products.

Performance Guideline: Lippage greater than 1/16 inch is considered excessive.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair lippage in the affected areas to meet the performance guideline if the lippage was caused by elements within the builder’s control.

Observation: Voids or skips are observed in the floor finish.

Performance Guideline: Voids that are readily visible from a standing position under normal lighting conditions are considered excessive.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair the floor finish in the affected area(s) to meet the Performance Guideline.

Observation: The top coating on hardwood flooring has peeled or chipped.

Performance Guideline: Field-applied coating should not peel during normal usage. Prefinished coatings are the manufacturer’s responsibility.

Corrective Measure: The builder will refinish any field-applied finishes that have peeled during the warranty period due to installation defect. Wear and tear are not considered a defect. Pre-finished floors will be corrected according to manufacturer’s prescribed methods.

Observation: Hardwood flooring has buckled.

Performance Guideline: Under normal conditions and usage, hardwood flooring should not buckle.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair the affected area to meet the performance guideline if buckling was caused by elements within the builder’s control. Buckling caused by excess water exposure is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Discussion: Wood floors are naturally susceptible to high levels of moisture. Buckling results from water or high levels of moisture coming in contact with the floor. Controlling excess water and high humidity levels during cleaning or from other sources is the homeowner’s responsibility. It is common to have these issues appear near refrigerators, dishwashers, sinks, and other areas which experience an increase in exposure to water and other liquids.

Observation: Hardwood flooring has released from the substrate.

Performance Guideline: Under normal conditions and usage, glue down hardwood flooring should not lift from the substrate. However, certain floor types are designed to float and are not considered defective if not attached to substrate.

Corrective Measure: To meet the performance guideline, the builder will repair the affected area if the lifting was caused by factors within the builder’s control.

Observation: Excessive knots and color variations are observed in hardwood flooring.

Performance Guideline: The builder should install the grade of hardwood specified for the project. All wood should be consistent with the grade or quality specified.

Corrective Measure: The builder will replace any improper grade or quality of wood.

Discussion: Hardwood flooring is a natural product and consequently can be expected to exhibit variations in color, grain, and stain acceptance.

Observation: Slivers or splinters are observed in hardwood flooring.

Performance Guideline: Slivers or splinters should not be visible.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair flooring in the affected areas to meet the performance guideline.

Discussion: Slivers or splinters that occur during installation of unfinished wood flooring can be shaved and the area filled prior to sanding and finishing. In most cases, slivers or light splintering in prefinished floors can be corrected.

Observation: Hardwood flooring has visible scratches and dents.

Performance Guideline: At the time of Home Orientation, hardwood flooring should not have scratches and dents visible from a standing position under normal lighting conditions.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair flooring in the affected areas to meet the performance guideline.

Discussion: The wide varieties of solid and engineered hardwood flooring available to homeowners have varying hardness and wear resistance. The builder is not responsible for the choice of a softer material that may be more susceptible to damage during or after construction. High-heeled shoes, furniture, toys, pets, and heavy foot traffic will create scratches and dents in all hardwood floors, some more than others.

Observation: Nail pops are observed on the surface of flooring.

Performance Guideline: Visible nail pops on floor coverings are considered excessive.

Corrective Measure: The builder will repair the nail pops that are visible.

Discussion: At the builder’s option, the builder will repair or replace the floor covering in the affected areas with similar materials and in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. The builder is not responsible for discontinued patterns or color variations when replacing the floor covering.

Observation: Depressions or ridges are observed in flooring because of subfloor irregularities.

Performance Guideline: Readily apparent depressions or ridges exceeding 1/8 inch are excessive.

Corrective Measure: The builder will take the necessary corrective action to meet the performance guideline. The builder should not be responsible for discontinued patterns or color variations when replacing the floor covering. The ridge or depression measurement is taken at the end of a 6-inch straight edge centered over the depression or ridge with three inches of the straight edge held tightly to the floor on one side of the affected area. Measure under the straight edge to determine the depth of the depression or height of the ridge.

Tile Floors (See Tile)

FOUNDATION

General

Observation: The foundation is out of square.

Performance Standard: As measured at the top of the foundation wall, the diagonal of a triangle with sides of twelve feet and sixteen feet will be no more than 1 inch more or less than 20 feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make necessary modifications to the foundation not complying with the Performance Standard for squareness to provide a satisfactory appearance. The builder may square the first-floor deck or walls by cantilevering over the foundation or locating the deck or walls inset from the outside face of the foundation.

Discussion: Squareness is primarily an aesthetic consideration. The corrective measure empha sizes the primarily aesthetic nature of squareness and makes the criterion for correction a satisfactory appearance. This allows the builder to make either a structural change or some cosmetic modification as is most appropriate. There are many instances in which the squareness of a foundation is inconsequential because subsequent construction provides an opportunity to make corrections.

Observation: The foundation is not level.

Performance Standard: This guideline applies only when the levelness of the foundation adversely impacts subsequent construction. As measured at the top of the foundation wall, no point will be more than ½ inch higher or lower than any point within twenty feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make necessary modifications to any part of the foundation or to subsequent construction to meet the Performance Standard for levelness. This can be affected by leveling sills with shims, mortar, appropriate fillers, or other methods.

Discussion: There are many instances in which the levelness of a foundation is not of consequence because subsequent construction provides an opportunity to make corrections.

Observation: There is a crack in a concrete footing.

Performance Standard: Cracks greater than ¼ inch in width are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any cracks in excess of the Performance Standard, using a material designed to fill cracks in concrete. In the event of heaving or displacement of a crack that is ¼" or greater Robuck Homes will have a licensed engineer review for structural integrity.

Concrete Block Crawl Space Walls

Observation: A concrete block crawl space wall is cracked.

Performance Standard: Cracks in concrete block basement or crawl space walls should not exceed ¼ inch in width.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair cracks to meet the Performance Standard using a material designed to fill cracks in concrete. In the event of heaving or displacement of a crack that is ¼ inch or greater Robuck Homes will have a licensed engineer review for structural integrity.

Discussion: Shrinkage cracks are common in concrete block masonry and should be expected in crawl space and basement walls. Cracks may be vertical, diagonal, horizontal, or in stepped-in masonry joints.

Observation: A concrete block wall is out of plumb or bowed.

Performance Standard: Block concrete walls should not be out of plumb or bowed greater than one inch in eight feet when measured from the base to the top of the wall.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any deficiencies in excess of the Performance Standard unless the wall is to remain unfinished according to the contract, and the wall meets building codes requirements as evidenced by passed inspections, in which case no corrective action is required by the builder. Plumbness / flatness is primarily an aesthetic consideration. The corrective measure emphasizes the primarily aesthetic nature of plumbness/ flatness and makes the criterion for correction a satisfactory appearance. This allows the builder to make either a structural change or some cosmetic modification as is most appropriate. There are many instances in which the plumbness of a foundation is inconsequential because subsequent construction provides an opportunity to make corrections.

Observation: Efflorescence is present on the surface of the crawl space block.

Performance Standard: If the efflorescence is caused by water leakage (actual flow and accumulation), the builder will eliminate the leak into the structure.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair to meet the Performance Standard. If efflorescence is a result of groundwater or ground moisture, no repair will be conducted and is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure proper maintenance occurs around the foundation of the home.

Discussion: Efflorescence is a typical condition caused by moisture reacting with the soluble salts in concrete and forming harmless carbonate compounds. It is evidenced by the presence of a white film on the surface of the concrete. It is a particularly common occurrence where masonry or concrete are in contact with high moisture levels as may be found in basements or crawl spaces.

Poured Concrete Basement and Crawl Space Walls

Observation: A poured concrete basement wall is out of plumb or bulged.

Performance Standard: Finished concrete walls should not be out of plumb or bulge greater than one inch in eight feet when measured vertically.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any deficiencies in excess of the Performance Standard unless the wall is to remain unfinished according to the contract, and the wall meets building codes requirements as evidenced by passed inspections, in which case no corrective action is required by the builder. Plumbness / flatness is primarily an aesthetic consideration. The corrective measure emphasizes the primarily aesthetic nature of plumbness / flatness and makes the criterion for correction a satisfactory appearance. This allows the builder to make either a structural change or some cosmetic modification as is most appropriate. There are many instances in which the plumbness of a foundation is inconsequential because subsequent construction provides an opportunity to make corrections.

Observation: An exposed concrete wall has pits, surface voids, or similar imperfections in it.

Performance Standard: Surface imperfections larger than 1 inch in diameter or one inch in depth are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair imperfections that do not meet the Performance Standard, using a material designed to fill holes in concrete.

Discussion: Pits, surface voids, and similar imperfections are called "air surface voids" and are caused by air trapped between the concrete and concrete form interface. Air surface voids are not structurally significant. The technical term for larger voids is honeycomb. These must be dealt with in accordance with this guideline. The repaired area is unlikely to match the color or texture of the surrounding concrete.

Observation: A poured concrete basement or crawl space wall is cracked.

Performance Standard: Cracks in poured walls should not exceed ¼ inch in width.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will cosmetically repair any cracks to meet the Performance Standard, using a material designed to fill cracks in concrete. In the event of heaving or displacement of a crack that is ¼" or greater Robuck Homes will have a licensed engineer review for structural integrity.

Discussion: Shrinkage cracks and other cracks are common and are inherent in the drying process of poured concrete walls. They should be expected in these walls due to the nature of concrete. The only cracks considered under warranty claims are cracks that permit water penetration.

Observation: A cold joint is visible on exposed poured concrete foundation walls.

Performance Standard: A cold joint is a visible joint that indicates where the pour terminated and continued. Cold joints are normal and should be expected to be visible. Cold joints should not be an actual separation or a crack that exceeds ¼ inch in width.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will cosmetically repair any cold joint to meet the Performance Standard, using a material designed to fill cracks in concrete.

Observation: Efflorescence is present on the surface of the poured concrete basement wall.

Performance Standard: If the efflorescence is caused by basement water leakage, (actual flow or accumulation), the builder will eliminate the leak into the structure.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair to meet the Performance Standard. If efflorescence is a result of groundwater or ground moisture, no repair will be conducted and is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure proper maintenance occurs around the foundation of the home.

Discussion: Efflorescence is a typical condition caused by moisture reacting with the soluble salts in concrete and forming harmless carbonate compounds. It is evidenced by the presence of a white film on the surface of the concrete. It is a particularly common occurrence where masonry or concrete are in contact with high moisture levels as may be found in basements or crawl spaces.

Moisture and Water Penetration

Basement Walls and Floor

Observation: Dampness is evident on basement walls or the floor.

Performance Standard: The builder is not responsible for dampness caused by condensation of water vapor on cool walls and floors. Dampness caused by moisture intrusion is unacceptable.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair to meet the Performance Standard unless the homeowner's action caused the dampness.

Discussion: Excessive dampness caused by homeowner action, such as changing the grade around the home, modifying foundation drainage system, irrigation systems, or lack of maintenance, is not the builder's responsibility.

Crawl Spaces

Observation: Water accumulates in a crawl space.

Performance Standard: Crawl spaces should be graded, and proper exterior foundation drains installed as required by the prevailing building codes to prevent water from accumulating. A drain is installed at the low point of the crawlspace to allow accumulated water to flow out.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will take corrective measures to meet the Performance Standard. If water accumulation is due to improper care and maintenance of f oundation drainage system, the homeowner is responsible.

Observation: Condensation is evident on the crawl space surfaces.

Performance Standard: The builder installs a vapor barrier required by the prevailing building code in sealed crawlspaces. Excess moisture content due to atmospheric humidity is the homeowner’s responsibility to control and remediate.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will take corrective actions to meet the Performance Standard. If the sealed crawl space is installed as required by applicable building codes, then no corrective action is required by the builder. Further reduction of condensation is a homeowner maintenance responsibility and can be achieved using dehumidification systems.

Structural Columns, Posts, or Piers

Observation: An exposed pressure treated wood column is bowed or is out of plumb.

Performance Standard: Pressure treated wood columns should not bow or be out of plumb more than ¾ inch in eight feet at substantial completion of the project.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any deficiencies in excess of the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Wood columns may become distorted as part of the drying process. Bows and other imperfections that develop after installation cannot be prevented or controlled by the builder.

Observation: An exposed concrete column is installed bowed or out of plumb.

Performance Standard: Exposed concrete columns should not be installed with a bow in excess of 1 inch in eight feet. They should not be installed out of plumb in excess of 1 inch in eight feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any deficiencies in excess of the Performance Standard.

Observation: A masonry column or pier is out of plumb.

Performance Standard: Masonry columns or piers should not be constructed out of plumb in excess of 1 inch in eight feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any deficiencies in excess of the Performance Standard.

Observation: A steel post is out of plumb.

Performance Standard: Steel posts should not be out of plumb in excess of 3/8 inch in eight feet when measured vertically.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any deficiencies in excess of the Performance Standard.

GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS

Gutters and downspouts should be kept free of any debris, which includes leaves, pine straw, tree limbs, and any objects. If they do become cluttered with debris, the water drainage system will not work properly, which will eventually cause overflows. Even when gutters are unobstructed, small amounts of water can stand in them immediately after a rain.

Normal contraction and expansion can cause nails to work loose on gutters and downspouts. Check every year for loose nails and replace if necessary. Be sure the downspouts are pointed away from your home so that water does not form a puddle at the foundation and eventually cause seepage through the foundation.

Observation: The gutter or downspout leaks.

Performance Standard: Gutters and downspouts should not leak.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair leaks in gutters and downspouts. Sealants are acceptable.

Observation: The gutter overflows during a heavy rain.

Performance Standard: Gutters should not overflow during normal rain however during a flashflood event, heavy storm, or hurricane it is possible for the gutter system to be overwhelmed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the gutter if it overflows during normal rains.

Discussion: Gutters may overflow during a heavy rain. The consumer is responsible for keeping gutters and downspouts free from debris that could cause overflow.

Observation: Water remains in the gutter after a rain.

Performance Standard: The water level should not exceed ½ inch in depth if the gutter is unobstructed by ice, snow, or debris.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the gutter to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: The consumer is responsible for maintaining gutters and downspouts and keeping them unobstructed. Builders install residential gutters with minimal slope to maintain an attractive appearance. Installing gutters with a slope generally will prevent water from standing in the gutters. Even so, small amounts of water may remain in some sections of the gutter for a time after a rain. In areas with heavy rainfall and/or ice buildup, a steeper pitch or additional downspouts may be desirable. During fall season when leaves fall from trees, frequent removal of leaves may be necessary, perhaps weekly.

Observation: Gutter looks crooked, or not level.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective measure required.

Discussion: Gutters are installed with a slope to allow for proper drainage to the downspouts. Not cleaning gutters will obstruct this flow, cause potential leaks, and water damage.

HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING

The sizing of the air conditioning unit has been specified according to the floor plan, total window area, and solar orientation of the home. The system is designed to produce an inside temperature of 78 degrees while cooling measured in the center of each room at the height of 5 feet above the floor, under local conditions. The regular maintenance of your system will extend the life of the unit and reduce your energy costs.

Heating systems are installed according to local building codes as well as engineering designs of your particular home. Proper maintenance is key to achieving the most efficiency from your HVAC system. The filters installed in the air returns at the time of closing need to be changed once a month. Failure to change these filters can result in reduced efficiency of the system, dirtier air, higher operating costs, and can void the remainder of your warranty.

Heating and Cooling Systems

Observation: The heating system is inadequate.

Performance Standard: The heating system should be capable of producing an inside temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, as measured in the center of each room at a height of 5 feet above the floor under normal local outdoor winter design conditions. National, state, or local energy codes supersede this Performance Standard where such codes have been adopted. Work should be done in accordance with the prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct the heating system to provide the required temperature in accordance with the Performance Standard or applicable code requirements. However, the homeowner will be responsible for balancing dampers and registers and for making other necessary minor adjustments.

Discussion: Closed interior doors, closed registers, and dirty filters can restrict airflow and may affect the system's performance.

Observation: Some rooms are colder or hotter, or more humid than others.

Performance Standard: The conditioning system should perform in accordance with the prevailing building code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder shall correct the flow of air to rooms to bring the flow into accordance with the prevailing building code.

Discussion: A temperature difference of several degrees Fahrenheit can be expected between rooms due to a number of factors, including registers that have been partially or completely closed, the number of people in a room (even sleeping), the number of appliances, even those that are seemingly off, the amount of glass in the room, the number of and extent of exterior walls, the sun exposure at the time, and the temperature difference between inside and outside. When the temperature difference is low in hot, humid climates, humidity can increase to give the perception of an increase in temperature.

Observation: The cooling of a room is inadequate.

Performance Standard: If air conditioning is installed by the builder, the cooling system should be capable of maintaining a temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit, as measured in the center of each room at a height of 5 feet above the floor under local outdoor summer design conditions. In the case of outside temperatures exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit, the system will keep the inside temperature 15 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the outside temperature. National, state, or local codes will supersede this guideline where such codes have been adopted. Work should be done in accordance with the prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct the cooling system to provide the required temperature in accordance with the applicable code requirements.

Discussion: Closed interior doors without proper floor clearance, closed registers, and dirty filters can restrict airflow and may affect the system's performance. Some cooling systems have filters in multiple locations.

Observation: The air handler or furnace vibrates.

Performance Standard: The units should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct the items according to the manufacturer's instructions and prevailing building code requirements.

Discussion: Under certain conditions, some vibration may occur with the normal flow of air when air handlers and furnaces are installed correctly. Debris in the furnace or air handler could cause the unit to become out of balance and vibrate. It is the homeowner's responsibility to keep units clear of debris.

Observation: A condensate line is clogged.

Performance Standard: Condensate lines should be free of all clogs at the time of substantial completion of the project.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder shall correct existing clogs before the Homeowner Orientation. If a clog occurs after closing, no corrective action is required of the builder.

Discussion: Condensate lines will eventually clog under normal use. The homeowner is responsible for checking and maintaining clear lines. The addition of a tablespoon of bleach at the condensate trap can inhibit the growth of algae that is the frequent cause of clogging. Additionally, homeowner should ensure that no mulch, leaf litter, pests, or landscaping is blocking the condensate drain outlet on the exterior of the home.

Observation: A refrigerant line or fittings leak.

Performance Standard: Refrigerant lines and fittings should not leak.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair leaking refrigerant lines or fittings and recharge the air-conditioning/heat pump unit unless the damage was caused by the homeowner's actions or negligence.

Observation: There is condensation on the outside of air handlers, refrigerant lines, or ducts.

Performance Standard: Moisture can be expected to condense and/or freeze on the exterior surfaces of air handlers, lines, and ducts when the air temperature is different from the surface temperature.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder unless the condensation is directly attributed to faulty installation.

Discussion: Condensation is most likely to occur when air handlers, refrigerant lines, or ducts are located in unconditioned locations such as a crawl space, basement, attic, or in exterior locations. Condensation usually results from conditions beyond the builder's control. Moisture in the air can condense to form water and collect on cold duct surfaces, particularly in the summer months when the humidity is high.

Air Infiltration and Drafts

Observation: Air infiltrates around exterior doors or windows, power outlets, etc.

Performance Standard: Weather stripping should be installed and sized properly to seal the exterior door when closed. Windows will be installed per the manufacturer's instructions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct to meet the Performance Standard. Some infiltration is usually noticeable around doors and windows.

Discussion: At times of high wind or temperature differentials inside the home and outside, there may be noticeable air movement around a closed door's perimeter or window. In high-wind areas, the homeowner may elect to have storm windows and doors installed to further reduce drafts. Doors must have gaps at their perimeter to accommodate expansion and contraction due to variations in temperature and/or humidity and to enable the door to operate over a wide range of environmental conditions. Weather stripping seals the gaps required for proper operations to prevent excessive air infiltration. A small glimmer of light seen at the corners of the door unit is normal. Weather stripping should be kept clean and maintained by the home owner. Every home is tested at the time of final inspection to ensure air infiltration is within building code requirements.

Humidity Control and Condensation

Observation: Water, ice, frost, or condensation is observed on the interior frame or glass surface of a window.

Performance Standard: Windows should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Condensation usually results from conditions beyond the builder's control. Moisture in the air can condense into water and collect on cold surfaces, particularly in the winter months when the outside temperature is low. Blinds and drapes can prevent air within the home from moving across the cold surface and picking up the moisture. Occasional condensation (water) in the kitchen, bath, or laundry area is common. It is the homeowner's responsibility to maintain proper humidity by properly operating heating and cooling systems' exhaust fans and allowing moving air within the home to flow over the interior surface of the windows. In hot, humid climates, condensation can occur on the outside of windows when the outdoor humidity is especially high (in early mornings when windows are cool). Air conditioning vents are usually aimed at windows and glass doors to maximize comfort. Blinds and drapes may eliminate this problem.

Ducts and Airflow

Observation: The ductwork makes noises.

Performance Standard: Ductwork should be constructed and installed in accordance with applicable mechanical code requirements.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder unless the duct does not comply with the prevailing building code.

Discussion: Metal expands when it is heated or subjected to pressure during startup and contracts when it cools. The ticking or crackling sounds caused by the metal's movement are common.

Observation: The ductwork produces excessively loud noises commonly known as "oil canning."

Performance Standard: The stiffening of the ductwork and the thickness of the metal used should be such that ducts do not "oil can." The booming noise caused by oil canning is considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder shall correct the ductwork to eliminate oil canning.

Observation: There is airflow noise at a register.

Performance Standard: The register should be correctly installed according to the prevailing building code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder unless registers are not installed according to the prevailing building code.

Discussion: Under certain conditions, there will be some noise with the normal flow of air even when registers are installed correctly.

Observation: The ductwork is separated or detached.

Performance Standard: Ductwork should remain intact and securely fastened.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reattach and secure all separated or unattached ductwork.

Observation: There is insufficient airflow to registers.

Performance Standard: The ductwork should be correctly installed according to the prevailing building code and the applicable mechanical code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct ductwork to meet the Performance Standard. If the airflow is adequate to properly condition the room, no corrective action is required of the builder. Please note that adjustments made to dampers for seasonal changes can affect airflow at the individual registers.

Ventilation

Observation: Kitchen or bath fans allow air infiltration.

Performance Standard: Bath and kitchen fans should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and prevailing building code requirements and perform in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder if the fan i nstallation meets the Performance Standard.

Discussion: It is possible for outside air to enter the home through a ventilation fan. The dampers in most fans do not seal tightly. It is possible for the damper to be lodged open due to animal activity (including nesting in the outside opening), or the accumulation of grease, lint, and other debris. Maintenance of ventilating fans is the homeowner's responsibility, and the homeowner should make periodic inspections to assure the proper flow of air.

Observation: The covers of HVAC vents or registers protrude from the wall, ceiling, or floor surface or do not sit flush with the surface.

Performance Standard: Registers should not protrude more than 1/16 inch from a smooth wall, ceiling, or floor surface at the time of the Homeowner Orientation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct to meet the prevailing building code.

Discussion: Registers and vents may deflect over time. This can result in gaps occurring between the vents or register and the wall or ceiling. Non-smooth surfaces such as tile can cause gapping at covers. As long as the vent or register is securely attached, this is not a warranty item.

Observation: Exhaust fan does not discharge to the exterior.

Performance Standard: Exhaust fans should vent in accordance with the prevailing building code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: In some appliances, including microwaves over the range, air can be recirculated instead of vented to the outside. Please refer to the specifications of your home to determine the design.

INSULATION

Inspect attic and crawl space on a seasonal basis to make sure the insulation has remained in place. If it has been moved in any way, it may result in air infiltration. Also, inspect the exterior of your home each season for separation or deterioration of caulking. Re-caulk as necessary to provide proper protection for your home. Ensure weather stripping is installed properly and fits tightly at all doors.

Observation: Inadequate insulation.

Performance Standard: Insulation will be installed to meet or exceed the applicable building codes at the time of construction.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder if insulation meets applicable building code requirements.

Observation: Air infiltration from electrical outlets.

Performance Standard: Airflow around electrical boxes is normal.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder

Observation: Insulation appears to sag or shrink away from the cavity during the warranty period.

Performance Standard: Shrinkage/sagging should not be more than ½ inch at the top and ½ inch on sides.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct insulation to meet the performance standard.

Discussion: Some space is created by the shrinkage of the framing members and not the insulation and is both expected and acceptable.

INTERIOR TRIM

Depending on temperature and humidity, shrinkage of wood trim may occur during the first two years or longer. Shrinkage occurs more often during the heating season. Maintaining a moderate and stable temperature & humidity level in your home can minimize shrinkage.

Observation: Separations in joints and cracks.

Performance Standard: Joints in moldings or joints in between moldings and adjacent surface will not exceed an opening of 1/8 inch.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Openings will be corrected by caulking or other methods ONE time during the warranty period. Color matches are not guaranteed.

Observation: Imperfections in trim.

Performance Standard: There will be imperfections in the wood and in wood composites. Small imperfections are better left alone as the repair can be more noticeable than the imperfection.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Imperfections that can be repaired should be addressed at the Homeowner Orientation. All imperfections noted after closing are not covered under the warranty.

Observation: There are gaps at non-mitered trim and molding joints.

Performance Standard: At the time of the Homeowner Orientation, openings at joints in trim and moldings, and at joints between moldings and adjacent surfaces, should not exceed one-eighth inch in width.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair joints to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Failing to control indoor relative humidity may cause separation of trim and moldings in excess of the Performance Standard. Joints that separate under these conditions are not considered defective. The homeowner is responsible for controlling temperature and humidity in the home.

Observation: Nails are not properly set, or nail holes are not properly filled.

Performance Standard: Setting nails and filling nail holes are considered part of painting and finishing. After finishing, nails and nail holes should not be readily visible from a standing position facing the surface at distance of six feet under normal lighting conditions. After painting or staining, putty colors will not exactly match variations in wood color.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will meet the Performance Standard. Puttying of nail holes in base and trim molding installed in unfinished rooms and areas not exposed to view (such as inside of closets) is not included in this guideline.

Observation: An inside corner is not coped or mitered.

Performance Standard: Trim and molding edges at inside corners should be coped or mitered. However, square-edge trim and molding may be butted.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will finish inside corners to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Interior trim is split.

Performance Standard: Splits, cracks, and checking greater than one-eighth inch in width are considered excessive. Splits and cracks due to wear and tear or abuse are not warranted.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will repair the affected area to meet the Performance Standard. Refinished or replaced areas may not match surrounding surfaces exactly.

Observation: Hammer marks are visible on interior trim.

Performance Standard: Hammer marks on interior trim should not be readily visible from a standing position facing the surface at a distance of six feet under normal lighting conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will fill hammer marks and refinish or replace affected trim to meet the Performance Standard. Refinished or replaced areas may not match surrounding surfaces exactly.

Discussion: Dents and marks on trim due to homeowner’s actions are not the builder's responsibility.

Observation: Wood trim appearance is uneven.

Performance Standard: Variations in natural wood trim are common.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Interior Stairs

Observation: An interior stair tread deflects.

Performance Standard: The maximum vertical deflection of an interior stair tread should not exceed one-eighth inch at two hundred pounds of force.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the stair to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Gaps exist between interior stair risers, treads, and/or skirts.

Performance Standard: Gaps between adjoining parts that are designed to meet flush should not exceed one-eighth inch in width.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace the parts as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: The use of filler and/or caulk is an appropriate method to fill gaps.

Observation: A stair riser or tread squeaks.

Performance Standard: Loud squeaks caused by a loose stair riser or tread are considered excessive; however, squeak-proof stair risers or treads cannot be guaranteed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will refasten any loose risers or treads or take other reasonable and cost-effective corrective action, based on their best judgment, to eliminate squeaking without removing treads or ceiling finishes.

Discussion: Squeaks in risers or treads may occur when a riser has come loose from the tread, deflects from the weight of a person, and rubs against the nails that hold it in place. Movement may occur between the riser and the tread or other stairway members when one tread is deflected while the other members remain stationary. Using trim screws to fasten the tread to the riser from above sometimes will reduce squeaking. If there is no ceiling below, gluing or re-nailing the riser to the tread or shimming will reduce squeaks but completely eliminating squeaks is not always possible.

Observation: Gaps exist between interior stair railing parts.

Performance Standard: Gaps between interior stair railing parts should not exceed one-eighth inch in width.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will ensure that individual parts of the railing are securely mounted. Any remaining gaps will be filled, or the parts will be replaced to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: An interior stair railing lacks rigidity.

Performance Standard: Interior stair railings should be installed in accordance with applicable building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will secure any stair railing parts that loosen with normal use, to meet the performance standard.

Discussion: Stair railings are designed to protect an individual while stepping up and down a stair well. Damages caused by the consumer from pulling, swinging, hanging, or sliding on railings may loosen the rail system and the builder is not responsible for repair of such.

LANDSCAPING

This homeowner guide does not provide comprehensive information on lawn care and maintenance. Regular and continual attention is required for the healthy establishment of your lawn and shrubs. Landscape professionals and nurseries are excellent resources to help you maintain your landscape. Landscape maintenance is entirely the homeowner’s responsibility.

Observation: Sod, shrubs, plants, or trees that were planted are dead.

Performance Standard: At the time of closing, any shrub, plant, tree, or sod planted by the builder as part of the contract should be alive.

Robuck Responsibility: Due to the sensitive nature of plants and trees to environmental conditions, homeowner care, and extreme season changes, Robuck Homes assumes no responsibility for landscaping products after closing.

Discussion: After installation, proper lawn and landscape care are the homeowner's responsibility. New landscaping requires adequate watering until roots of plantings have become established. Watering is the homeowner's responsibility. As well, Robuck Homes is not responsible for landscape materials that die or fail to grow due to drought or municipal restrictions.

Observation: Sod and trees that were planted during the dormant season /winter, (i.e., warm season turf grass, deciduous trees) are not “greening up” or sprouting new leaves in the first spring.

Performance Standard: Any warm season turf that does not “green up” or deciduous trees that do not “bud” prior to the completion of the spring season will be considered dead.

Robuck Responsibility: Dead areas of turf grass that have not “greened up” or trees that do not bud which were planted during the winter will be replaced at no charge to the homeowner.

Discussion: It is important to remember that even dormant grass requires water. Lawn care should not be neglected during the winter or dormant period. Severe droughts can kill the roots of dormant sod. The lack of watering and care will be clear when reviewing any warranty claims.

Observation: Sod contains weeds

Performance Standard: Lawns are prone to growing weeds. To control weeds effectively, proper care and maintenance is essential.

Robuck Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: Grass seed does not germinate.

Performance Standard: Germination is dependent on certain climatic conditions, which are beyond builder's control.

Robuck Responsibility: The builder is only responsible for seeding per the manufacturer’s instructions. No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: After installation, proper lawn and landscape care are the homeowner’s responsibility. New landscaping requires frequent watering until roots of plantings have become established. Watering is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Drainage

Maintaining splash blocks at the bottom of gutter downspouts and any downspout extensions will help keep the water draining away from your home quickly. Do not remove these.

Observation: Improper drainage of the site.

Performance Standard: To ensure proper drainage, necessary grades and swales will be established. Standing water or “ponding” water will not remain more than 24 hours and in a swale for more than 48 hours. Standing water after a heavy rainfall should be expected. Grading determination will not be made while the ground is saturated or there is snow or frost on the ground. The homeowner is responsible for maintaining the proper grades and swales once they have been completed. Damage to grading or swales due to installation of swimming pools, planters, decks, patios, etc. that interfere with the proper site drainage is not covered. Erosion due to heavy rains and storms also is not covered. Standing water beyond ten feet of the perimeter of the foundation is not covered by the warranty. Slit seeding can change drainage swales drastically. This can be minimized by slit-seeding parallel to the swales rather than across them.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Correction will be made if standing water remains for more than 24 hours, or more than 48 hours in a swale. Robuck Homes is responsible for the initial establishment of proper grade and swales.

Observation: Settling of the ground around foundation walls, utility trenches or other areas.

Performance Standard: Some settling will occur, especially after a long or heavy rainfall, or melting of considerable amounts of snow. Settling can continue for several years sometimes. Homeowner maintenance requires an inspection of the perimeter of the foundation regularly and proper fills as necessary for maintaining positive drainage away from the house.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If settlement exceeds six inches, correction will be made to fill the affected area ONE TIME.

Observation: The ground has settled around the foundation, over utility trenches, or in other areas.

Performance Standard: Settled ground around foundation walls, over utility trenches, or in other filled areas should not interfere with water drainage away from the home.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If the builder provided final grading, then one time only during the warranty period, the builder would fill areas that settle more than six inches or that affect proper drainage. The builders will make a good faith effort to preserve plantings, but it is the homeowner's responsibility to replace shrubs, grass, other landscaping, pavement, sidewalks, or other improvements affected by placement of such fill.

Observation: The property has soil erosion.

Performance Standard: The builder is not responsible for soil erosion.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder. The builder is not responsible for erosion due to acts of God, weather conditions, property alteration by the home owner, construction on adjacent properties, utility company's work, improper homeowner maintenance, or other conditions beyond the builder's control.

Observation: Water from a nearby or adjacent property flows onto the homeowner's property.

Performance Standard: The builder is responsible for providing a reasonable means of draining water from rain, melting snow, or ice on the property and in the immediate area of the home, but the builder is not responsible for water flowing from a nearby or adjacent property.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Soil erosion is beyond the builder's control and no corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: Existing trees, shrubs, or other vegetation have been damaged during construction.

Performance Guideline: The builder will use his or her best judgment in making a reasonable and cost-effective effort to preserve existing landscaping as predetermined by the builder and homeowner, but the survival of existing landscaping cannot be guaranteed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Irrigation

Your irrigation system required seasonal maintenance that is the homeowner’s responsibility some of these items include but are not limited to: winterization, startup, back flow inspections, head adjustment and cleaning, zone time duration adjustment due to weather conditions, and observing municipal water use restrictions and requirements. Robuck Homes recommends utilizing an irrigation professional to maintain and check irrigation systems on a regular basis since they can be sensitive to changing temperature and weather conditions.

Observation: Municipal fee or fine incurred because of failure to conduction a backflow inspection

Performance Standard: Many municipalities require yearly backflow inspection to ensure proper performance. Failure to adhere can result in repossession of backflow valve or fees.

Robuck Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder. This is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Discussion: Municipalities will have resources available on their websites regarding local use restrictions and maintenance requirements.

Observation: Water is spraying or leaking from backflow valve or sprinkler head.

Performance Standard: Water should not be leaking from backflow valves or from spray head assemblies.

Robuck Responsibility: The system is inspected and tested prior to closings and the homeowners sign off at final walk through. After closing proper maintenance and care for irrigation systems is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Discussion: Irrigation systems are exposed to the elements and are extremely susceptible to wear, breakage, and degradation due to improper care. It is important to utilize the services of an irrigation contractor to conduct routine maintenance.

OVERHEAD GARAGE DOORS

The moving parts of garage doors should be greased every three months with a substance specially designed for garage doors. Any type of garage door spring repair should be left to a professional.

Observation: Garage doors fail to operate properly under normal use.

Performance Guideline: Garage doors should operate as designed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct or adjust garage doors as required unless the homeowner’s actions caused the problem.

Discussion: The safety sensors can be easily knocked and misaligned so that the doors will not operate properly. The homeowner should avoid storing items near the sensors. Direct sunlight can also cause the sensors to indicate that something is blocking the opening and prevent the doors from shutting.

Observation: Garage doors allow the entry of snow or water.

Performance Guideline: Garage doors should be installed as recommended by the manufacturer. Some snow or water can be expected to enter under normal conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will adjust or correct the garage doors to meet the manufacturer's installation instructions.

PAINT AND DRYWALL

Paint and Stains

The formulation of paint has changed over time due to environmental concerns, including the removal of lead and the elimination of oil-based paints for safer paint. Due to these changes, painted surfaces must be washed gently using mild soap and as little water as possible. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Cleaning marks are more visible on flat paint than on glossy paint, but flat paint touches up better than glossy paint. A touch up of painted surfaces often yields better results than washing. Homeowners are provided their color selections at closing. Store leftover paint where it will not be affected by freezing temperatures. At your Home Orientation we will confirm that all painted and stained surfaces are in acceptable condition. All touch-ups after the Home Orientation are the responsibility of the homeowner except painting performed because of another warranty repair. Only the area affected by the repair will be touched up unless the repair covers more than one-third of the wall. Exact paint matches are not guaranteed. It is recommended that your homes exterior should be painted at least every five years, however depending on color selections, this timeframe may be shortened.

Observation: Exterior paints or stain peels, deteriorates or fades.

Performance Standard: Exterior paints or stains should not fail during the first year of the limited warranty. Some fading, however, is normal depending on climatic conditions. Varnish or lacquer on the exterior will deteriorate quickly and is not covered by this warranty.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Correction will be made if the paint is defective according to manufacturer’s specifications. If peeling or deterioration affects one-third of the wall or covered surface, the entire wall will be painted. Color match or texture is not guaranteed. An effort will be made to match as closely as possible.

Observation: Mildew or fungus on painted surfaces.

Performance Standard: Mildew or fungus on the exterior is caused by climatic conditions or nearby bodies of water. It is recommended that the house be washed once a year with an exterior cleaning agent which can be found at all local hardware stores. North faces of homes are more susceptible to mildew/algae conditions. Power washing is not recommended.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder. Mildew or fungus is a condition Robuck Homes cannot control.

Observation: Knot holes bleed through the paint or stain.

Performance Standard: Knot holes will be apparent on certain types of wood.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Correction of the affected areas where excessive bleeding of knots appears will be made prior to closing by Robuck Homes. Any subsequent bleeding repairs will be the responsibility of the homeowner. It is recommended that a stain blocking, oil-based product be used.

Observation: Additional painting required due to other repair work that needs to be performed by Robuck Homes.

Performance Standard: Painting repair required under this limited warranty will be finished to match surrounding areas as closely as possible. If repair affects one-third of the wall or more, the entire wall will be painted. If not, the area will be touched up to match as closely as possible.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Painting repair work will be done according to the performance standards; however, repairs to paint applied after closing are the homeowner's responsibility.

Drywall

Most of the interior walls and ceilings of your home are covered with drywall. While your new home is in the process of drying and settling, shrinkage and settlement may occur in the drywall causing slight imperfections. This is very normal. Heat and moisture can cause drywall joints to separate, so special care should be given to prevent excessive amounts of moisture from coming in contact with drywall. Additionally, exposure to dryness should be prevented in the winter season. Address any leaks or sources of moisture immediately to prevent damage. Drywall flaws which are visible only in certain lighting conditions are not warrantable repairs. Repairs to paint or wallpaper applied after closing are the homeowner's responsibility.

Observation: Cracks and separation, nail pops, blisters in tape, or other blemishes.

Performance Standard: Minor blemishes, separations and cracks, nail pops and other slight imperfections are common and should be expected. Correction will be made in cracks more than 1/8 inch width during the first year.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Drywall imperfections that exceed the performance standards will be repaired ONE TIME. It is recommended that this be done on the 11 Month Walkthrough. Only the area repaired will be touched up with paint unless the repair covers more than 1/8 of the wall or ceiling. If this occurs, the entire wall or ceiling will be painted. Color matches in the paint are not guaranteed and any walls painted by the homeowner after occupancy of the home will not be touched up at all. Only original paint colors when the home closed will be touched up. This also applies to any other repairs (such as plumbing) that require drywall repair and paint touch up.

Observation: Joints protrude from the surface.

Performance Standard: Any joints that are visible from a standing position directly facing (not at an angle) the surface at distance of six feet under normal lighting conditions are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair affected areas.

Discussion: Visible joints often occur in long walls, stairwells, ceilings, and areas of two-story homes where framing members have shrunk and caused the drywall to protrude.

Observation: Angular gypsum wallboard joints are uneven.

Performance Standard: This is a common condition that occurs with randomly applied materials.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: The texture of gypsum wallboard does not match.

Performance Standard: Any variations that are readily visible from a standing position facing the surface at a distance of six feet under normal lighting conditions are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the affected area to meet the performance guideline.

Observation: Interior paint does not cover the underlying surface.

Performance Standard: The surface being painted should not show through new paint when viewed from a standing position facing the surface at distance of six feet under normal lighting conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will recoat affected areas as necessary to meet the performance guideline as closely as practical.

Discussion: The amount and direction of sunlight can have a significant effect on how a surface appears. It is not unusual for the underlying surface to be visible in direct sunlight; no corrective action is required of the builder in such instances.

Observation: An interior surface is spattered with paint.

Performance Standard: Paint spatters should not be readily visible on walls, woodwork, floors, or other interior surfaces when viewed from a standing position facing the surface at distance of six feet under normal lighting conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will remove paint spatters to meet the performance guideline.

Observation: Brush, roller or Lap marks show on interior painted surface.

Performance Standard: Brush marks should not be readily visible on interior painted surfaces when viewed from a standing position directly facing (not at an angle) the surface at a distance of six feet under normal lighting conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will refinish as necessary to meet the performance guideline and match affected areas as closely as practical.

Observation: Interior painting, staining, or refinishing of repair work does not match.

Performance Standard: A perfect match between original and new paint cannot be expected. Repairs required under the performance guideline will be finished to match the immediate surrounding areas as closely as practical.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Where the majority of the wall or ceiling area is affected, the area will be painted from break line to break line. The builder is not required to paint an entire room.

PESTS

Termite Soil Treatment Warranty details are included in the closing documents for homeowners. Robuck Homes recommend renewing this treatment annually.

Observation: If you suspect termites are present contact your termite treatment company for assistance.

Performance Standard: The Termite Soil Treatment Warranty protects structures listed from eastern subterranean termite attack for one year.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: At closing, we certify that your foundation has been treated for termites. This is our final action for termites. Pest control for other types of insects or animals is the homeowner's responsibility.

Discussion: Termites are easier to bar from a new house than to exterminate from an old one. You should conduct your own inspection regularly.

. Look for remains of the winged insects.

. Inspect basement or foundation walls and piers for the mud tubes that extend from the soil up the foundation of your home.

. Make sure your downspouts are diverting water away from your home and that your faucets and A/C drip lines are not causing water to pool around your foundation.

. Avoid storing wood on the ground and against your home

PLUMBING AND BATH FIXTURES

At the Home Orientation, Robuck Homes confirms that all plumbing fixtures are in acceptable condition and that all faucets and drains are operating freely. Exceptions should be noted during the Home Orientation. Maintaining this system properly will ensure many years of satisfaction for the homeowner.

Supply valves - All members of your household should become familiar with the water supply valves in your plumbing system. Label each one with a shipping or luggage tag. You will rarely need to use them, but in the event of an emergency or if you need to make minor repairs, they will be easy to locate. Supply valves for toilets are usually under the water chamber. Supply valves for sinks are usually under the sink, while the main supply valve is usually on the first floor, in a centrally located closet.

Drains - Each plumbing fixture in your house has a drain trap. This, J or P shaped piece of pipe is designed to provide a water barrier that prevents the sewer gas from entering the house. Infrequently used fixtures should be turned on regularly to replace evaporated water and ensure that the barrier remains intact. Because of their shape, traps are also the source of most clogging problems. To avoid clogging drains or toilets, never pour grease or oil-based products into them. In addition, the use of baby wipes and other products deemed “flushable” should be used with great care as these will clog drain systems. Robuck Homes recommend contacting a licensed plumber for clogs. Many aftermarket remedies contain harsh chemicals that can degrade and shorten the lifespan of your drain system.

Water Heaters - All water heaters (whether gas or electric) have a control mechanism to govern water temperature. The dial should be set at 120° F or lower. Your household's individual preferences should determine the hot water temperature. Follow manufacturer guidelines when adjusting water temperature. The lower the temperature setting, the less fuel you will use, which could produce considerable savings on your utility bills. On gas heaters be sure the air intake is not obstructed. Avoid storing anything near the water heater that might obstruct the flow of air or create a fire hazard. Water heaters normally collect small quantities of scale and sediment from the water. Refer to manufacture guidelines to perform routine service.

Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve - Every three or four months you should check the temperature and pressure relief valve on your water heater to be sure the lever works properly. If the thermostat should fail to operate properly, this valve would prevent a dangerous increase in water temperature and pressure.

Observation: Noisy pipes.

Performance Standard: Some noise can be expected due to changes in temperature or the flow of the water itself. Temperature variations can be expected if water is being used in more than one location at a time.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Excessive noise due to improper installation or consistent “water hammering” will be corrected.

Observation: A pipe, valve, or fitting leaks.

Performance Standard: No leaks of any kind should exist from any water pipe, valve, or fitting.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make repairs to eliminate leaks.

Observation: Condensation is observed on pipes, fixtures, or plumbing supply lines.

Performance Standard: Condensation on pipes, fixtures, and plumbing supply lines may occur at certain temperatures and indoor humidity levels.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The consumer is responsible for controlling humidity in the home. No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: The homeowner may insulate pipes and supply lines.

Observation: A water pipe freezes in cold weather or has burst.

Performance Standard: The builder should provide adequate freeze protection to drain waste, vent, and supply line in accordance with the prevailing building code. Suitable temperatures in the home are needed to prevent pipes from freezing which is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder shall bring freeze protection measure into compliance with the prevailing building code.

Discussion: The homeowner is responsible for maintaining the home at appropriate temperatures and taking appropriate precautions during freezing conditions. Homeowner maintenance includes proper winterization, which consists of draining the pipelines and outside faucets as well as disconnecting hoses. Heat should be set at 65 degrees if you are away during the winter months. Garage doors should be kept closed to protect plumbing lines, which may run through this area. In cold climates, be sure all entrances to crawl spaces are closed during cold weather. If a pipe should freeze, proper defrosting may prevent damage. The pipe must be thawed slowly to prevent the formation of steam, which could cause it to burst. You should first restore heat to the affected part of the house. A frozen pipe is most likely to be on an outside wall exposed to winter winds. Please consult a licensed plumber to properly thaw a froze pipe.

Observation: The water supply system fails to deliver water.

Performance Standard: All on-site service connections to the municipal water main or private water supply are the builder's responsibility at the time of closing.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the water supply system if the failure results from improper installation or failure of materials and if the connections are a part of the construction agreement. Conditions beyond the control of the builder that disrupt or eliminate the water supply are not covered.

Observation: The water pressure is low.

Performance Standard: The plumbing system shall be designed in accordance with the prevailing plumbing code. It should deliver water at the expected water pressure based on the pressure supplied to the home.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: When water pressure is determined by public or private (well) water source, no corrective action is required by builder.

Discussion: Low water pressure may also be a condition created by the low flow requirements on some plumbing fixtures or dirty aerators that require cleaning.

Observation: A water supply line is noisy.

Performance Standard: Because of the flow of water and pipe expansion/contraction, the water piping system may emit some noise. However, the pipes should not make the pounding noise called water hammer.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder cannot eliminate all noises caused by water flow and pipe expansion/contraction. However, the builder will provide the water hammer protection required by the prevailing plumbing code.

Observation: The water heater is not properly secured.

Performance Standard: The water heater should be installed per manufacture's specifications and the prevailing building code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will secure the water heater as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Plumbing Fixtures

Aerators - Plumbing lines may collect dirt, foreign matter, and small amounts of mineral causing the faucets to drip or stop up. The aerators on the faucets strain much of this debris from the water, but it may be necessary to unscrew the aerators and clean them with a toothpick or toothbrush occasionally. Aerators are most common on kitchen and bathroom sinks. To clean an aerator, first make sure the drain is covered, then unscrew the aerator from the mouth of the faucet, remove any deposits, remove, and rinse the washers and screens, replace them in their original order, and put the aerator back on the faucet. The frequency of the need for cleaning will depend on the condition of the water, but every three or four months is adequate.

Outside Faucets - If the temperature falls below freezing in the winter, outside water connections for summer gardening should be turned off and inside and outside pipes drained before cold weather begins. This precaution will prevent the freezing and bursting of the outside pipes and fittings. The control valve is usually inside the house close to where the water supply goes through the exterior wall. Open the outside faucet to drain off any excess water. Remove the garden hose and store it for the duration of the cold weather.

Bathtubs, sinks, and showers – These fixtures are made of a variety of materials. Bathtubs are most frequently made of vitreous china, porcelain enamel on cast iron or steel, or fiberglass-reinforced plastic. Bathroom sinks are usually made of vitreous china, of porcelain enamel on cast iron or steel, or of marble resin. Showers are most frequently made of ceramic tile, fiberglass reinforced plastic, or molded plastic. Kitchen sinks are generally made of porcelain enamel or stainless steel. Laundry tubs or sinks are usually made of fiberglass or plastic.

To prolong the life of bathtubs and sinks, follow these precautions:

. Avoid letting food waste sit in the sink. When food waste accumulates, dispose of it in a garbage disposal. If you do not have a disposal, put these wastes in an appropriate container.

. Do not use bathtubs or sinks to hold paint cans, trash, or tools. Cover bathroom fixtures when painting walls, ceilings, and woodwork.

. Shoes should never be worn in a bathtub. Shoe soles carry gritty particles that can scratch the surface, regardless of the material.

Vitreous China and Porcelain Enamel - The surfaces of these fixtures are smooth and glossy like a mirror and durable, but they are not indestructible. Carelessness causes chipping, scratches, and stains. A blow from a heavy or sharp object will chip the surface and scraping or banging metal utensils will gradually scratch and dull the surface. Shiny new fixtures can also be dulled or stained within a short time through improper or excessive use of strong abrasive cleansers. Most household cleaners are mildly abrasive but are safe if used with plenty of water. A nonabrasive cleaner is safer. If you prefer a dry material, baking soda is nonabrasive.

Stainless Steel - Stainless steel fixtures generally resist staining and require a thorough scrubbing only occasionally. Use a nonabrasive cleanser or a household stainless steel cleanser.

Plastic and Other Substances -A nonabrasive cleaner usually works well with plastic and other substances, but you may ask your plumbing builder to recommend a good cleaner for the material in question. Special commercial cleansers are also available. You can apply a wax or other surface protector to make cleaning easier and keep the units glossy.

Glass Shower Enclosures or Stalls - To clean glass shower enclosures, an ordinary dishwashing detergent should do a good job. If hard water minerals have built up, use a household glass cleaner. To keep your glass looking clean, the enclosure should be wiped clean after every use. Warning: Use ample ventilation, avoid breathing the vapor from the spray, and wear rubber gloves. Also be cautious of cleaners containing ammonia as this can tarnish some metallic finishes.

Caulking - The homeowner is responsible for maintaining caulk seals after closing. When the caulking around your bathtub or sink dries out or cracks, remove the old caulking and replace it. If you do not have a caulking gun, you can buy caulking material in applicator tubes or in disposable caulking guns from a home supply store. Fill the tub with water (as you would before a bath) before caulking it. This will allow the tub to settle to its lowest level in relation to the walls ensuring the finished caulk will be under less stress.

Mildew - Even in climate-controlled homes, mildew can appear in areas of high humidity, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. You can take positive steps to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of mold growth by keeping the humidity in the home low. Ensure clothes dryer vents are thoroughly cleaned with no obstructions to the outdoors. Ventilate rooms, particularly kitchens and bathrooms using exhaust fans, or running the air-conditioner or a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture in the air. Promptly clean up spills, condensation, and other sources of moisture. Thoroughly dry any wet surfaces or material. Do not let piles of wet towels or clothing stand in the home.

Rust Stains - Rust stains occur when wet metal utensils are left on the surface of the sink or tubs. Steel wool soap pads also will rust and stain when wet and should be kept in an appropriate container. Rust stains are almost always permanent on fiberglass surfaces.

Observation: Cracking or chipping of sinks, vanity bowls, tubs, or commodes.

Performance Standard: Chips, scratches and/or cracks on the surface of sinks, vanity bowls, tubs or commodes can occur when hit by sharp or heavy objects.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Repairs will take place only if noted in writing prior to closing on the home.

Observation: A bathtub or shower enclosure base flexes excessively.

Performance Standard: The bathtub or shower enclosure should be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions and perform in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications; however, some noticeable flex can be expected and is normal.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the base to meet the manufacturer's guideline.

Discussion: It is normal for bathtub and shower enclosure designs and materials to exhibit some flexing. Minimal noises may be associated with such movement.

Observation: A sewer odor is noticeable inside the home coming from the wastewater system.

Performance Standard: A sewer odor should not be detectable inside the home under normal conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder should take the steps necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: The consumer should keep the plumbing traps filled with water. Extended non-use of a water fixture can allow the water in its trap to evaporate, thus providing a path for sewer gases to enter the home. Depending on humidity conditions, the consumer should fill traps by adding a quart of water to bathtubs, laundry tubs, and the like that are not used regularly, approximately every couple of months.

Toilets

In 1993, a water saving regulation went into effect, which prohibits toilets being manufactured that use more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Flushing twice occasionally is necessary to completely empty the commode due to this regulation but, overall, water is being saved. Flow restrictors also are manufactured into most faucets and all shower heads. Any alterations to flow reduction measure pose the risk of voiding your warranty.

Observation: A toilet does not discharge wastewater properly.

Performance Standard: Toilet should perform in accordance with manufacturer's specification.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace the toilet not meeting the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Toilets are designed to flush personal waste and toilet paper. Consumers should not flush products that are nominally biodegradable, such as personal wipes, paper towels, or napkins. Similarly, non-biodegradable items like feminine hygiene products, cotton balls or plastics should not be flushed. While many of these items may clear the toilet, they may cause blockage in the drainpipe. Consumers should avoid flushing prescription medications and other qdrugs. We recommend contacting a licensed plumber for clogs. Many aftermarket remedies contain harsh chemicals that can degrade and shorten the lifespan of your drain system.

Observation: The flushing level does not result in initiating a flush or water constantly enters the toilet.

Performance Standard: The flushing mechanism should function properly at the time of the Home Orientation

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the flushing mechanism if noted in writing prior to closing on the home. Upon closing the builder is not responsible for repairs.

Discussion: Most toilets have a water chamber, flush valve, overflow pipe, float, and ball valve. If water leaks into the bowl through the overflow pipe, adjust the float so that it will be closer to the bottom of the tank. Flush the toilet, and if it still leaks, the inlet valve washer may need to be replaced. If the water trickles into the bowl but is not coming through the overflow pipe, it is coming through the flush ball valve. The connections between the ball valve and the flushing handle may need aligning so that the ball will drop straight down after the handle has been pushed. A worn ball valve or dirt or rust on the ball seat will let water leak into the bowl. If the ball valve or ball seat are dirty or rusty, clean them. If the ball is worn, replace it.

Faucets

Prior to closing on your new home, Robuck Homes confirms that all plumbing fixtures are in acceptable condition. Repairs of scratches, chips or cracks in plumbing fixtures is not warranted unless damage was reported at the Home Orientation.

Observation: A plumbing fixture, appliance, or trim fitting is defective.

Performance Standard: Plumbing fixtures, appliances, and trim fittings should perform in accor dance with manufacturer's specifications at the time of closing.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Defective fixtures, appliances, or trim fittings are covered under the manufacturer's warranty. Builder will be responsible for repairing or replacing fixtures, appliances and trim fittings provided by builder during the warranty period.

Observation: The surface of a plumbing fixture is cracked, chipped, or scratched.

Performance Standard: Cracks, chips, or scratches in surfaces of faucets, showers, bathtubs, and sinks are considered excessive if they are visible from three feet in normal lighting conditions at the time of closing.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder shall repair any fixture that does not meet the Performance Standard prior to closing. Upon closing the builder is not responsible for repairs.

Observation: A plumbing fixture does not deliver hot water.

Performance Standard: The plumbing lines and fixtures should be correctly installed per municipal building code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct the plumbing lines and/or adjust fixtures to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Hot water tanks or tankless water heaters are sometimes set at low temperatures to conserve energy and prevent young children from burning themselves. Some building codes limit the high temperature setting at levels that some people find too low. Likewise, some fixtures include safety devices to prevent scalding and may restrict the fixtures' ability to deliver water as hot as some consumers may desire. The timing of delivery can also be affected by the distance of a fixture from the hot water source.

Observation: Leak in faucet or valve.

Performance Standard: Valves or faucets should not leak due to defects.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Robuck Homes will repair or replace leaking faucets or valves when due to defects in workmanship or material. If a plumbing leak caused by a warranted item results in sheetrock or floorcovering damage, Robuck Homes will repair or replace items which were part of the original purchase. Homeowner insurance is responsible to cover secondary damages such as wallpaper, drapes, or personal belongings but are excluded from warranty coverage.

Discussion: Leaks that are a result of improper use of fixtures such as but not limited to: Washing machine overflow, improper drain line installation of washing machine, Dishwasher overflow/ clog, sink overflow/ clog, tub overflow/clog are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Observation: Low water pressure

Performance Standard: Water pressures are regulated by codes and should 55-60 psi.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Robuck Homes will adjust if the Performance Standard is not met. Any further adjustments will not be made.

ROOFING

The roofing system protects your home against the elements. Regular maintenance can ensure a comfortable and dry home. It is imperative that the gutters and downspouts are kept free of debris and can drain any precipitation from the roof quickly. Flashing on your roof is made of galvanized metals or aluminum and is designed to keep water from penetrating at the spots where the shingles meet other building materials. It is normal for the flashing to be visible. The shingles on your roof do not require any treatment or sealer. Roof shingles should be inspected periodically and any cracked, raised, or damaged shingles due to inclement weather should be replaced immediately to avoid leaks. It is recommended that you limit walking on your roof, especially when the shingles are wet, as this is extremely dangerous. Excessive foot traffic can damage the shingles. It is best to call a professional roofer for any repairs. Shingles are warranted through the manufacturer. Robuck utilizes several brands of shingles. Currently GAF Timberline are our most used. However, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to verify their brand and manufacturer’s warranty. Below is an excerpt from GAF’s warranty:

This limited warranty may be transferred only once. The second owner must notify GAF in writing within one year after the property transfer for warranty coverage to be transferred. (Other than this one transfer, this warranty may not be transferred or assigned, directly or indirectly.) If the transfer takes place within the Smart Choice® Protection Period, the second owner is entitled to the same coverage as the original owner. If the transfer takes place afterwards, the length of this warranty shall be reduced to the two-year period after the ownership changes. If there is a defect during this two-year period, GAF’s reimbursement to the second owner will be based only on the reasonable cost of replacement shingles or applicable accessories, reduced by the amount of use that has been received from the shingles or applicable accessories from the date of installation through the date of claim.

Observation: The roof ridge has deflected.

Performance Standard: Roof ridge deflection greater than one inch in eight feet is considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair affected ridge that do not meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: A rafter or ceiling joist bows (up or down).

Performance Standard: Bows greater than one inch in eight feet is excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the affected rafters or joists that bow more than the Performance Standard.

Observation: Roof trusses have deflected.

Performance Standard: All roof trusses and other manufactured structural roof components in the roof system should be sized according to the manufacturers' specifications or structural engineers’ requirements as well as prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reinforce or modify as necessary any roof truss or other manufactured structural roof components in the roof system to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Deflection is a normal condition that is considered as part of the engineering design of the roof trusses and other manufactured structural roof components. Deflection may be an aesthetic consideration independent of the strength and safety requirements of the product. Deflection and truss movement may be visually evident at the joint of drywall. This is common and unavoidable when there are high snow loads or when strong winds have blown on the building and roof causing them to move slightly, but enough to crack brittle drywall joints.

Observation: Roof trusses have lifted from the adjoining interior walls.

Performance Standard: Moisture differences between the upper chord and lower chord (unheated versus adjacent interior heated spaces) may cause the lower chords to move. Deflection is a normal condition that is considered as part of the engineering design of the roof trusses.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Truss uplift is an aesthetic consideration and is independent of the strength and safety requirements of the truss. This situation will be more prevalent in the winter due to greater variance in moisture and temperature in some regions.

Roof Assembly

Observation: Roof assembly is wavy or appears bowed.

Performance Standard: Roof assembly should not bow more than ½ inch in two feet.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will straighten bowed roof areas as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: The builder may install blocking between the framing members to straighten the sheathing or spread out the variance over a greater distance. Under certain viewing conditions and light, minor irregularities in the roof assembly may be observed. This may be particularly apparent on truss framing with asphalt shingles.

Observation: Nails or staples are visible through sheathing or boards (decking) at overhangs.

Performance Standard: The length of nails and staples used to secure roofing materials is determined by the manufacturer's installation instructions and the prevailing building code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Nails and staples may protrude through sheathing at overhangs. Their appearance is only an aesthetic concern.

Roof Vents

Observation: An attic vent or louver leaks.

Performance Standard: Attic vents and louvers properly installed should not leak. Infiltration of wind-driven rain and snow are not considered leaks and are beyond the builder's control.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace improperly installed vents as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: As noted in the performance standard wind driven rain particularly in hurricanes or other severe storms can and will penetrate ridge ventilation, soffit ventilation and other areas designed to allow airflow. These are not considered leaks and will not be covered under warranty.

Observation: Attic ventilation is insufficient.

Performance Standard: The total roof vent area should meet the requirements of the prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct roof ventilation as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Attic ventilation can be provided in variety of ways and proper ventilation may be obtained through ridge vents, soffit vents, gable vents, attic fans, fresh air vents or any combination thereof. Some attics are sealed or finished as conditioned space and do not require outside ventilation. It is the consumer's responsibility to keep the vent locations free from obstructions. In extremely high wind-driven rain events (e.g., over 40 mph), rain that is in the wind will flow with the wind into attics. Louvers in gable end vents can keep large drops of water out of attics when wind speeds are low. However, at even moderate wind speeds the wind will carry water drops with it. It is unavoidable because there is no practical mechanism to separate drops (especially very small ones) from air. Small drops can be like trying to separate drops of fog from air. In short duration rain events, the accumulation of water may be so small as not to be noticed; however, during tropical depressions and hurricanes, the water can accumulate to damaging quantities. The best preventative measure is to completely block gable end vents during such events. Gable end vents with hinged louvers still can allow wind driven rain to enter an attic in damaging quantities. When rain enters an attic, it can accumulate to such an extent on the top of ceiling drywall that the drywall weakens and the ceiling collapses.

Observation: The roof, roof penetrations or flashing leaks.

Performance Standard: Roofs and flashing should not leak under normal conditions. Withing the first year of your home.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any verified roof or flashing leaks not caused by ice buildup, leaves, debris, abnormal weather conditions, or the consumer's actions or negligence.

Discussion: It is the consumer's responsibility to keep the roof drains, gutters, and downspouts free of ice, leaves, and debris. Additionally, roof penetrations and flashing areas are often sealed using caulk which can dry out or shrink. These areas must be inspected and maintained by the homeowner during the life of the home.

Observation: Ice builds up on the roof.

Performance Standard: During prolonged cold spells ice is likely to build up on a roof, especially at eaves. This condition can occur naturally when snow and ice accumulate.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Prevention of ice buildup on the roof is a consumer maintenance item.

Observation: Shingles have blown off.

Performance Standard: Shingles shall be rated for the wind zone of the project and shall be installed in accordance with the applicable prevailing building code and the instructions provided by the manufacturer on the packaging of the shingles.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If shingles were not installed per manufacturer's installation instructions, the builder will repair or replace shingles that have blown off.

Discussion: Correctly installed shingles are covered by the manufacturer's warranty. The wind rating of shingles is determined for brand new shingles using tests of questionable accuracy in predicting actual wind performance especially when time elapses. Shingles lose wind resilience over time. Shingles are not regarded as having sealed to one another until they have reached 135 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 18 hours. In hot, even warm, sunny weather, these sealing conditions can occur in just a few days, but until then shingles are vulnerable to wind. Replacement shingles may not match existing shingles.

Observation: Shingles are not horizontally aligned.

Performance Standard: Shingles should be installed according to the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will remove shingles that do not meet the performance guideline and will repair or replace them with new shingles that are properly aligned.

Discussion: The bottom edge of dimensional shingles may be irregular; the irregularity is an inherent feature of the design. Replacement shingles may not match existing shingles.

Observation: Asphalt shingle edges or corners are curled or cupped.

Performance Standard: These conditions are a manufacturer's warranty issue.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder. Excessive curling or cupping is covered under the manufacturer's warranty. Curled or cupped shingles should not be installed.

Observation: Asphalt shingles do not overhang the edges of the roof, or they hang too far over the edges of the roof.

Performance Standard: Shingles should be installed according to manufacturer's instructions and applicable to the prevailing building code.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reposition or replace shingles as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: In high wind areas, shingles may be purposely installed so they do not extend beyond the edges of the roof. This is to reduce the chance of wind picking the edges up.

Observation: Shading or a shadowing pattern is observed on a new shingle roof.

Performance Standard: Shading or shadowing differences may occur on a new roof.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: Asphalt shingles have developed surface buckling.

Performance Standard: Asphalt shingle surfaces need not be perfectly flat. However, buckling higher than ¼ inch is considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace the affected shingles to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Reasonable time should be given in cooler weather for shingles to warm and lay flat. Replacement shingles may not match existing shingles.

Observation: Sheathing nails have loosened from framing and raised the shingles.

Performance Standard: Nails should not loosen from roof sheathing enough to raise shingles from surface.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make corrections as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: It is not uncommon for nails to withdraw from the framing because of temperature variations. The builder can re-drive or remove and replace fasteners that withdraw from the framing. Any resulting holes should be sealed, or the shingle should be replaced. Replacement shingles may not match existing shingles.

Observation: Roofing nails or fasteners are exposed at the ridge or hip of a roof.

Performance Standard: Nails and fasteners should be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will seal and/or repair areas to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Areas of a shingle roof are stained.

Performance Standard: Shingles on a roof may stain.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Staining on shingles is unavoidable, no corrective action is required by the builder.

Discussion: Black stains are indicative of mold/mildew/fungal growth that is unavoidable even when stain resistant shingles are installed. Whitish stain can be caused by chemicals in the metals of roof vents or the surrounding metal of pipes leaching onto the roof.

Observation: Holes from construction activities are found on the roof surface.

Performance Standard: Holes from construction activities should be flashed or sealed to prevent leaks.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair or replace the affected shingles to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Water is trapped under membrane roofing.

Performance Standard: Water should not become trapped under membrane roofing.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If water becomes trapped under membrane roofing, the builder will repair or replace the roofing as necessary to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: Membrane roofing is blistered but does not leak.

Performance Standard: Surface blistering of membrane roofing is caused by conditions of heat and humidity acting on the membrane and is a common occurrence.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: No corrective action is required by the builder.

Observation: There is standing water on a flat roof.

Performance Standard: Water should drain from a flat roof, except for minor ponding, within 24 hours of a rainfall or according to manufacturer's specifications.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will take corrective action to meet the Performance Standard.

Skylights and Light Tubes

Observation: A skylight or a light tube leak.

Performance Standard: Skylights and light tubes should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Leaks resulting from improper installation are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair any improperly installed skylight and light tube to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Condensation on interior surfaces is not a leak. It is important to note that any roof penetrations installed after closing are not covered by this warranty and are the homeowner’s responsibility.

SEPTIC SYSTEM

Observation: A septic drainfield or tank that emits an odor or wet spots/standing water in the drainfield.

Performance Standard: Septic systems are designed according to each municipalities environmental department’s parameters and installed as such. There should not be a constant or steady odor if the system is properly functioning.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Confirm that the septic tank is not full and in need of servicing and/or pumping. If you have a pressure system with a pump, ensure power is on to the pump and it is functioning. Check that there has not been any damage to the drain lines due to vehicle traffic, lawn tools, landscaping, or utility trenching. Lastly, ensure that no household members or guests have flushed anything that is not septic safe down the drain.

Discussion: Warranty coverage for your septic systems is for workmanship and/or installation related matters. Most septic systems originate from user care and maintenance issues. Please refer to the Septic System Maintenance Bulletin located on following page.

Observation: Wastewater fixtures and pipes clog frequently or drain slowly.

Performance Standard: Sewers, fixtures, and drains should drain as designed.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: If a problem occurs, the homeowner should consult the builder for corrective action. The builder will correct problems caused by improper installation. If homeowner action or negligence caused the problem, the homeowner is responsible for the necessary repairs.

Observation: The septic (onsite wastewater collection and treatment system) does not operate as designed.

Performance Standard: The septic system will function as designed and approved by the applicable local governing authority.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct problems caused by improper installation. The homeowner is responsible for the proper maintenance of the system. If homeowner action is the cause, the homeowner is responsible for correcting the problem.

Discussion: Septic systems are sensitive biological systems whose function is dependent upon proper biological conditions and chemical balance that will promote the livelihood of the bacteria living with the system. Homeowner actions that will negate corrective measure by the builder under this performance guideline include but are not limited to the following:

. Connection of sump pump, roof drains, or backwash from a water conditioner into the system.

. Placement of non-biodegradable or nominally biodegradable items, such as personal wipes and feminine hygiene products into the system.

. Excessive use of a food waste disposer.

. Placement of surfaces not permeable to water over the disposal area of the system.

. Allowing vehicles to drive or park over the disposal area of the system.

. Failure to pump out the septic tank periodically, as required.

. Use that exceeds the system's design standards.

. Lack of vegetation maintenance over drain fields.

. Allowing water to pond over the disposal area.

Septic Systems and Their Maintenance

The septic system is an effective, long-standing method for collecting, treating, and disposing of sewage from rural and suburban homes and businesses. Septic systems are used in every county in North Carolina. Nearly 50 percent of the state’s homes have them. This fact sheet will answer some typical questions about septic systems and their maintenance.

Why Use a Septic System?

Septic systems are used when centralized sewage treatment plants are not accessible in a community. They safely treat and dispose of wastewaters produced in the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry. These wastewaters may contain disease-causing germs and pollutants that must be treated to protect human health and the environment. Septic systems are usually a permanent solution to wastewater treatment and disposal. Therefore, they must be properly used, operated, and maintained by the homeowner to assure the long-term performance of these systems. Even when used as a temporary wastewater treatment solution until sewer lines are extended to a community, special care and maintenance are needed for septic systems so that they don’t pose a risk to public health or the environment.

What Is a Septic System?

Several different types of septic systems are available, each with its own design. The traditional, conventional system is the one that has been most commonly used in North Carolina up until the past decade (Figure 1). It consists of three main parts: the septic tank, the drainfield, and the soil beneath the drainfield. The septic tank is a watertight container about 9 feet long and 5 feet tall. It is buried in the ground just outside the home. The tank is usually precast from reinforced concrete, although tanks made from plastic or fiberglass may be seen on occasion. While a tank is typically designed with a 1,000-gallon liquid capacity, its size is legally determined by the number of bedrooms in the home. The tank temporarily holds household wastes and allows a small amount of pretreatment to take place (Figure 2).

Figure 1. A conventional septic system. Figure 2. A two-compartment septic tank.

What Takes Place in the Septic Tank?

All of the wastewaters from the home should flow into the septic tank. Even waters from the shower, bathtub, and washing machine can contain disease-causing germs or environmental pollutants. As wastewater flows into the tank, the heavier solid materials settle to the bottom (forming a sludge layer), and the lighter greases and fats float to the top (forming a scum layer). The tank’s primary purpose is to retain the solids. After a retention time of about two days, the liquid portion (the sewage effluent) flows out of the tank through the outlet pipe. The retention time is necessary for separation of the solids from the liquid and for anaerobic digestion of the solids to begin in the septic tank. An outlet baffle (or a sanitary tee at the outlet end) prevents solids from flowing out with the liquids. Newer septic systems installed since 1999, however, include an effluent filter in the septic tank. These are installed in place of the sanitary tee at the outlet end of the septic tank (in the second compartment shown in Figure 2).

What Happens in the Drainfield and the Soil?

The purpose of the drainfield is to deliver the liquid sewage effluent to the soil. The real treatment of the wastewater occurs in the soil beneath the drainfield. Sewage effluent flows out of the tank as a cloudy liquid that still contains many disease- causing germs and environmental pollutants. Effluent flows into the perforated pipe in the trenches, passes through the holes in the pipe, and then trickles down through the gravel to the soil (Figure 3). There are also “gravel-less” trenches used where plastic louvered chambers, polystyrene aggregate, tire chip aggregate, or large diameter pipes are used in place of the gravel aggregate. These materials provide a void space in the trench to allow distribution of the effluent to the trench bottom. As sewage effluent enters and flows through the ground, soil particles filter out many of the bacteria that can cause diseases. The soil adsorbs some of the smaller germs, such as viruses, until they are destroyed. The soil can also retain certain chemicals, including phosphorus and some forms of nitrogen.

A special zone, called a biomat, forms in the upper 1 to 6 inches of the soil at the soil/trench interface just below the trench bottom. This biomat zone is useful. It helps remove many of the germs and chemical pollutants. If the solids accumulating in the septic tank are never pumped out, however, they can flow into the trenches and accumulate into an intensive biomat that becomes too thick. When that happens, the biomat completely clogs the soil and does not allow the sewage effluent to flow out of the trench. An improperly maintained system will fail and cause untreated sewage to completely fill the trenches and come out on top of the ground or back up into the home in its plumbing system.

Where Can a Septic System Be Used?

A centralized sewer system with a large sewage treatment plant usually discharges treated wastewater into a body of water. On the other hand, a septic system depends on the soil around the home to treat and dispose of sewage effluent (Figure 3). For this reason, a septic system can be used only on

Figure 3. Wastewater treatment and disposal in the soil.

soils that will adequately absorb and purify the effluent. If a septic system is installed in soil that cannot do so, the effluent will seep out onto the soil surface overlying the drainfield or back up into the home. In addition to causing an unpleasant smell, this untreated sewage can pose health problems.

In some cases where the soils do not adequately absorb the wastewater, the toilets and sinks might not drain freely. If the soil can absorb the effluent, but not treat it, or if the trenches are installed directly into groundwater or bedrock, the sewage may contaminate the groundwater. Because the underlying groundwater serves as the source of drinking water for your well or possibly your neighbors’ wells (Figure 3), it is very important that the system be installed in the proper soil conditions and that the septic system is correctly used, operated, and maintained.

What Kinds of Soil Conditions Are Best Suited to a Conventional Septic System?

Gently sloping, thick, permeable soils with deep water tables make the best sites for the traditional, conventional septic system and simple modifications of it. The soil should be a uniform brown, yellow, or bright red color. It should not have spots of gray colors that often indicate the soil becomes excessively wet or that groundwater comes up close to the ground surface during the wet times of the year. The soil texture should be neither too sandy nor too clayey, and it should have good aggregation, or structure (that is, a handful of the soil should easily break apart into small aggregates).

Areas that are unsuitable for conventional septic systems have rock close to the surface, very sticky clays, soil layers that restrict the downward flow of water, or areas with shallow groundwater. These factors would prevent a conventional septic system from working properly.

What About Other Types of On-Site Systems That Are Alternatives to the Conventional System?

Other types of on-site systems are sometimes used on sites where the soil is not suited to a conventional system. Where soils are too wet or too shallow for the conventional system, the drainfield might be placed very close to the ground surface in the upper layers of the soil. In some wet soils, artificial drainage around the septic system lowers the level of the shallow water table. On some clayey soils that have a thick sandy surface, the low-pressure pipe (LPP) system provides an alternative.

On some soils that are not deep enough to provide adequate treatment of the sewage effluent, it may be possible to use an advanced pretreatment unit to supplement the soil’s treatment capacity. Examples are fixed media biofilters such as a sand filter, peat filter, textile filter, or porous foam biofilter or mechanical aerobic treatment units that bubble air into the sewage itself. Most of these pretreatment units are installed between the septic tank and drainfield. They provide better purification of the wastewater than is provided by the traditional septic tank alone. Some sites may need more sophisticated methods of distributing the sewage effluent within the drainfield itself using a pressure manifold, LPP, or drip irrigation system. These systems use pumps, special controls, and specially designed pipe networks that can improve the wastewater treatment in the soil. In other situations, it may be cost effective to collect the wastewater from several homes in an area or subdivision by using a cluster system. This type of system has a drainfield located in a common area within the best-suited soils in the tract of land. These newer and more sophisticated types of on-site system options can often provide a better wastewater treatment solution for a particular building lot, or a tract of land, than either the traditional, conventional septic tank system or large-scale, centralized public sewers.

How Large Is a Typical Drainfield?

Usually, the drainfield for a home can fit within the front yard or the backyard of a typical 1-acre home site. Sometimes smaller lots can be used. The precise area requirements will depend upon the kinds of soils at the home site, the size of the house (the number of bedrooms), the topography of the lot, and the type of on-site system used there. A site with clayey, slowly permeable soils needs a larger drainfield to absorb the sewage effluent than does a site with sandy, permeable soils. A home with five bedrooms will need a larger tank and drainfield area than a home with three bedrooms. A rental property at the beach may require a larger drainfield than a similar-sized permanent residence with the same number of bedrooms. A home using one of the newer, more advanced types of on-site technologies may be able to use a smaller area for the drainfield than if a conventional septic system is installed. Adequate land area must be available to achieve adequate setback distances from any nearby wells, springs, streams, lakes, or other bodies of water located either on the lot or off-site. There also must be enough area to install a second system, called a replacement system, in case it is ever needed. This replacement area (sometimes called a repair area) also must have acceptable soil and site conditions and must be left undisturbed and available for system replacement. Be aware that the type of on-site system required for use in the repair area could be a completely different, more sophisticated type of on-site system. Hence, if that repair area is ever needed, you might have to install a more expensive system than the original system installed when the lot was first developed.

What Legal Requirements Regulate Septic Systems?

State law requires that soils be evaluated by the local health department and that an I.P. and a C.A. be issued before house construction begins or the septic system is installed. The I.P. allows the site to be used, while the C.A. determines what type of system must be installed. Sometimes these are issued at the same time by the health department. An I.P. is good only for five years unless it is renewed, or unless it is issued under special conditions for a lot that has been professionally surveyed. If a permanent I.P. is issued, then you have some limited guarantee that the lot can be used (even if the state rules change), assuming that the conditions on the lot or the intended use don’t change. Nevertheless, the type of system that will be required as well as home size and location are not assured until the C.A. is issued. Contact your local health department to be sure that you follow the correct procedures and that you are fully aware of the limitations that will protect your investment. Also, the installation must be approved by the health department and an operation permit (O.P.) must be issued by the health department before electrical service can be permanently connected to the home and the septic system put into use.

Once the home has been occupied and the system put into use, you will need to contact the county health department if you plan to add on to the home, install a pool, build an outbuilding, or engage in activity that requires a building permit. First, obtain an authorization from the county health department to make sure that the septic system and repair area remain intact and are properly sized for the proposal.

What Maintenance Is Needed?

Both the septic tank and the drainfield must be properly maintained for the standard conventional septic system. With conscientious maintenance, the system should work correctly for many years. Such maintenance begins with water use and waste disposal habits. Your family will determine which materials enter the system, so you should establish family rules for proper use and maintenance. The suggestions outlined in the box will save you anguish and money when applied to most conventional systems.

If your system has an effluent filter, it will need checking and servicing approximately every 2 to 3 years. While this could be done by a homeowner, it is a messy, unpleasant task and there are potential safety issues because of the germs in the sewage and toxic gases. For most people, it would be appropriate to hire a company that specializes in septic system maintenance and service to inspect and clean the effluent filter.

Special types of pretreatment units and drainfield distribution technologies also must be carefully maintained for the more advanced, newer technologies described earlier. These newer technologies will be more expensive to operate and maintain than the traditional, conventional septic system. Most advanced on-site and cluster wastewater treatment systems require regular inspections and professional maintenance. Research conducted in North Carolina has shown that about 40 to 50 percent of the advanced systems will fail within 6 years if this maintenance is not provided. Therefore, in North Carolina, a professionally trained, state-certified “subsurface system operator” hired by the homeowner is required by the O.P. to provide the needed inspections and maintenance for advanced technologies. For more information about these requirements, contact your local health department or the state Water Pollution Control Systems Operator Certification Commission.

Note, however, that individual homeowners are allowed to take the same training programs and state licensing exam as the professional operators. If they pass the exam, they can operate their own system by themselves. Because this generally is not done, most homeowners will have to pay for this service if they have one of these more advanced technologies.

Regardless of whether a professional operator is hired, it is the home-owner’s responsibility to assure proper use, inspection, operation, and maintenance of any type of on-site wastewater system.

Tips for Maintaining Your Septic System

. Do not put too much water into the septic system; typical water use is about 50 gallons per day for each person in the family.

. Do not add materials (chemicals, sanitary napkins, applicators, and so on) other than domestic wastewater.

. Restrict the use of your garbage disposal.

. Do not pour grease or cooking oils down the sink drain.

. Make a diagram showing the location of your tank, drainfield, and repair area.

. Install a watertight riser over the septic tank to simplify access.

. Have the effluent filter in the septic tank cleaned periodically by a professional.

. Have the solids pumped out of the septic tank periodically?

. Maintain adequate vegetative cover over the drainfield.

. Keep surface waters away from the tank and drainfield.

. Keep automobiles and heavy equipment off the system.

Do not plan any building additions, pools, driveways, or other construction work near the septic system or the repair area.

Will I Need to Pump the Tank?

Yes. After a few years, the solids that accumulate in the septic tank should be pumped out and disposed of at an approved location. If not removed, these solids will eventually overflow, accumulate in the drainfield, and clog the pores (openings) in the soil.

This blockage severely damages the drainfield. Although some clogging of soil pores slowly occurs even in a properly functioning system (the biomat described earlier), excess solids from a poorly maintained tank can completely close all soil pores so that no wastewater can flow into the soil. The sewage effluent will then either back up into the house or flow across the ground surface over the drainfield. If this happens, you may need to construct a new drainfield on a different part of your lot. Pumping the septic tank after the soil drainfield has become completely clogged will not rejuvenate the system. It will provide only a few days of reprieve until the tank fills up again. Once the soil has become completely clogged, it is usually necessary to install a new drainfield or an advanced pretreatment unit, or both. This can have a significant negative effect on your landscaping and yard, as well as being expensive. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure with septic systems.

How Will I Know When to Pump the Tank?

The frequency with which you will need to pump depends on three variables: the tank size, the amount of water used by your family, and the solids content of your wastewater. If you are unsure about when to have the tank pumped, have a professional operators observe the rate of solids accumulation in the tank each year. He or she can clean and replace the effluent filter cartridge in the tank at the same time. The tank should be pumped if the sludge layer at the bottom of the septic tank has built up to within 25 to 33 percent of the tank’s liquid capacity or if the scum layer in the tank is more than 4 to 6 inches thick. Therefore, a typical 1,000-gallon tank with a 4-foot liquid capacity should be pumped when the solids reach 1-foot thick in the tank bottom. Also, be sure to have both compartments of the tank pumped (note the two compartments shown earlier in Figure 2).

If the septic system is not used very often (as in an infrequently used vacation home with a correctly sized tank), it will probably not need to be pumped as frequently as indicated in Table 1. If you use a garbage disposal, the tank may need to be pumped more frequently. After a few inspections, you should be able to adjust the schedule according to the rate at which solids accumulate.

What Should Not Be Put into the Septic System?

Make sure you are aware of the types and amounts of extra waste materials that are poured down the drain. Limiting the use of your garbage disposal will minimize the flow of excess solids to your tank. Garbage disposals usually double the amount of solids added to the tank. Do not pour cooking greases, oils, and fats down the drain. Grease hardens in the septic tank and accumulates until it clogs the inlet or outlet. Grease poured down the drain with hot water may flow through the septic tank, but then it can clog soil pores completely and ruin the drainfield.

Pesticides, paints, paint thinners, solvents, disinfectants, poisons, and other household chemicals should not be dumped down the drain into a septic system because they may kill beneficial bacteria in the septic tank and soil microorganisms that help purify the sewage. Also, some organic chemicals will flow untreated through the septic tank and the soil, thus contaminating the underlying groundwater. If your home has a water treatment system, such as a water softener, the discharge pipe from the backwash should not be connected to the waste plumbing system or septic tank.

Are Septic-Tank Additives Necessary?

No. These products include biologically based materials (bacteria, enzymes, and yeast), inorganic chemicals (acids and bases), or organic chemicals (including solvents). Research conducted to date on three of these types of bacterial additives has not shown any reduction in the rate of solids buildup nor increases in bacterial activity in the septic tank. Therefore, they do not seem to reduce the need for regular pumping of the septic tank. Some additive products contain organic chemicals and may even damage the drainfield or contaminate the groundwater and nearby wells.

Is Special Care Needed for the Drainfield?

Yes. The drainfield does not have an unlimited capacity. The more water your family uses, the greater the likelihood of problems with the septic system.

Water conservation practices can help reduce the amount of wastewater generated in the home. Periodically check your plumbing for leaky faucets and toilets. Uncorrected leaks can more than double the amount of water you use. Many soils can absorb the 200 to 250 gallons of sewage usually produced each day by a family of four, but these soils would become waterlogged if an extra 250 gallons were added. For more information on this subject, see North Carolina Cooperative Extension publications WQWM-75/HE-250, Focus on Residential Water Conservation and WQWM-76/HE-213, Water Management Checklist for the Home.

Be sure that foundation drains, roof waters, gutter waters, and surface waters from driveways and other paved areas do not flow over the septic tank or the drainfield. Careful landscaping can help direct excess surface waters away from the system.

Summary

The septic system is an efficient, inexpensive, and convenient method for treating and disposing of household wastewater. Because not all soils are suited for conventional systems, comprehensive soil and site investigations must be performed before you purchase any land.

Septic systems will adequately absorb and purify wastewater if they are properly maintained. Contrary to popular belief, septic systems are not maintenance free. Money that is saved by not paying a monthly sewer bill should be set aside for regular inspections and maintenance. A few precautions can save you anguish and money. Reducing water use, avoiding grease, cleaning the effluent filter, pumping the tank periodically, and properly landscaping the yard to keep surface water away from the tank and drainfield are inexpensive precautions that can help assure your system a long life. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension publication AG-439-22, Septic System Owner’s Guide, summarizes some important day-to-day management and periodic maintenance activities to improve your system’s longevity. When properly located and maintained, your system should provide years of trouble-free, low-cost service.

Reference & Acknowledgments

Mancl, K.M. 1984. Journal of Environmental Engineering, Vol. 110(1):283–285. This publication is a revision of an earlier version.

Authors

Mike Hoover - Professor and Extension Specialist (Soils and Septic Systems) - Crop and Soil Sciences

Tom Konsler - Environmental Health Supervisor - Orange County Health Department

Jonathan Godfrey - Extension Associate - Crop and Soil Science

*Please note some sections removed from original document by Robuck Homes due to not being applicable to our use and to decrease document size and application. No information has been changed or altered.

FRAME STRUCTURE

Floor System

Observation: Springiness, bounce, shaking, or visible sag is present in the floor system.

Performance Standard: All beams, joists, headers, and other dimensional or manufactured structural members will be sized to achieve manufacturers' specifications, engineer’s design requirements and/or prevailing building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reinforce or modify, as necessary, any member of the floor system not meeting the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Deflection may indicate insufficient stiffness in the lumber or may reflect an aesthetic consideration independent of the strength and safety requirements of the lumber. Structural members are required to meet standards for both stiffness and strength.

Beams, Columns, and Posts

Observation: A manufactured wood column has splits, checks, cracks, twists, or knots.

Performance Standard: Pre-manufactured columns can have splits, checks, cracks, twists, or knots. However, where structural members of column are glued together there should not be separation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Splits, checks, cracks, twists, or knots are not covered under the warranty. The builder will repair or replace manufactured columns that do not meet the manu facturer’s warranty guidelines. Filling splits with appropriate filler is an acceptable method of repair.

Discussion: Columns, posts, and beams will sometimes split as they dry after installation. Splitting is acceptable and is not a structural concern. Some materials have inherent cracks or imperfections; these do not require repair.

Subfloor and Joists

Observation: The wood subfloor squeaks or seems loose.

Performance Standard: Although a squeak-proof floor cannot be guaranteed, frequent, loud squeaks caused by improper installation or loose subflooring are deficiencies.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will refasten or take other corrective action of any improperly installed or loose subfloor to attempt to reduce squeaking to the extent possible within reasonable repair capability without removing floor or ceiling finishes. Only squeaks that can be produced on demand over the course of multiple seasons can be addressed.

Discussion: There are many possible causes of floor squeaks. One of the more common sources of squeaks is wood moving along the shank of a nail. Squeaking frequently occurs when lumber, floor sheathing, or boards move slightly when someone walks over them. Boards and floor sheathing may become loose due to shrinkage of the floor structure or subfloor as it dries after installation or seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. Nails used to fasten metal connectors such as joist hangers and tie-down straps may cause squeaks. The nature of wood and construction methods makes it impossible to eliminate all squeaks during all seasons. Fastening loose subflooring with casing nails into carpet and counter sinking the head is an acceptable method of repair. Snap-off screws may also be used to refasten subflooring through carpet.

Observation: A wood subfloor is uneven in a concentrated area.

Performance Standard: Subfloors should not have more than a ¼ inch ridge or depression within any 32-inch measurement. Measurements should not be made at imperfections that are characteristic of the material used. This guideline does not cover transition points between different materials.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct or repair the subfloor to meet the Performance Standard. Shimming, sanding, floor leveling compound, blocking, and additional framing members are all considered acceptable methods to remediate unevenness. Corrective method is to be determined by the Builder.

Observation: A wood subfloor is not level over a large area.

Performance Standard: The floor should not slope more than ½ inch in twenty feet. Crowns and other lumber characteristics that meet the standards of the applicable grading organization for the grade and species used are not defects. Deflections due to overloading by the homeowner are not the builder's responsibility.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will make a reasonable and cost-effective effort to modify the floor to comply with the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Sloped floors have both an aesthetic and functional consideration. Measurements for slope should be made across the room, not in a small area. Shimming, sanding, floor leveling compound, blocking, and additional framing members are all considered acceptable methods to remediate unevenness. Corrective method is to be determined by the Builder.

Observation: Deflection and/or flex is observed in a floor system constructed of wood joists, floor trusses, or similar products.

Performance Standard: All wood I-joists and other manufactured structural components in the floor system will be sized and installed as provided in the manufacturers' instructions and applicable building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reinforce or modify as necessary any floor component that does not meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Some deflection and/or flex is normal and is not an indication of deficiency in the strength and safety of the product. Homes are not designed to handle additional concentrated loads such as but not limited to water beds, pool tables, or exercise equipment.

Wall Framing

Observation: A wood-framed wall is not plumb.

Performance Standard: The interior face of wood-framed walls should not be more than 3/8 inch out of plumb for any thirty-two inches in any vertical measurement.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will correct the wall to meet the Performance Standard.

Observation: The wall is bowed.

Performance Standard: Walls should not bow more than ½ inch out of line within any 32-inch horizontal measurement, or ½ inch out of line within any 8-foot vertical measurement.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will repair the wall to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: All interior and exterior walls have slight variances in their finished surface. On occasion, the underlying framing may warp, twist, or bow after installation.

Observation: Deflection is observed in a beam, header, girder, or other dimensional or manufactured structural member in a wall.

Performance Standard: All beams, headers, girders, and other dimensional or manufactured structural members in the wall system will be sized according to the manufacturers' specifications, engineer’s design, and/or applicable building codes.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: The builder will reinforce or modify, as necessary, any beam, header, girder, or other dimensional or manufactured structural member in the wall system that does not meet the Performance Standard.

TILE

Your selection sheet provides the brand, style, and color of the tile in your home. Please keep this information for future reference. Follow the manufacturers’ recommendations for additional information on the care of your tile.

It is important to maintain the grout and caulking around ceramic tile to prevent water damage during the life of your home. Routine cleaning of your tile consists of a quick wipe with a damp mop or sponge. This type of cleaning should work for normal stains. Consult the manufacturer for additional cleaning recommendations. Vacuum tile regularly to remove gritty particles that may scratch the tile.

In showers and bathtubs do not allow soap scum and hard water film to build up. Wipe down shower walls with a towel after each use and damp sponge other tile walls or floors. To avoid mildew in tile grout, it is recommended to leave the shower curtain or door open between uses. This will help speed drying after each use.

The joint between the tub and the tile wall should be carefully maintained. It is normal as your new house settles to have some shrinkage of caulk or grout. If this happens, remove the old grout with a sharp-pointed tool. Use caution not to chip tile or tub. Dry the joint thoroughly. Clean the joint and remove any debris, then fill it with a flexible caulking compound. Acrylic with silicon caulk is especially good for such applications.

Observation: Damaged Tile

Performance Standard: Any damaged tiles should be noted at the orientation.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Any damaged tile that is observed after closing is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Observations: Loose Tile

Performance Standard: Tile should not become loose through normal conditions.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Should tile become loose within the first year Robuck Homes will repair the affected tile unless the flooring was damaged by the homeowner's actions or negligence. The builder is not responsible for discontinued patterns or color variations when replacing tile.

Observations: Cracked grout and caulk in tile areas

Performance Standard: Cracking of grout joints and caulking is common over time and is a homeowner maintenance item.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: Robuck Homes will confirm that tile and grout areas are in satisfactory condition prior to closing.

Observation: Cracks are observed in the tile grout or at the junctures with other materials, such as a bathtub.

Performance Standard: Cracks in grouting of tile joints commonly result from normal shrinkage conditions. Cracks that result in loose tiles or gaps more than 1/26 inch are considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will repair grout to meet the Performance Standard. The builder is not responsible for color variations or discontinued colored grout. The homeowner is responsible for regrouting these joints after the builder’s one-time repair.

Discussion: The use of a grout caulk at junctures between tile and other materials is often more effective than grout and is considered an acceptable method of repair.

Observation: There is lippage of adjoining ceramic tile.

Performance Standard: Lippage greater than 1/26 inch is considered excessive, except where the materials are designed with an irregular height such as handmade tile or tile larger than 13 x 13 inches.

Observation: A grout or mortar joint is not a uniform color.

Performance Standard: After the grout or mortar has cured, any color variation that is readily visible from a standing position facing the surface at six feet under normal lighting conditions is considered excessive.

Robuck Homes Responsibility: One time only during the warranty period, the builder will repair the joint to meet the Performance Standard.

Discussion: Grout or mortar cannot be expected to match exactly in repaired areas.

WARRANTY FAQ

How do I submit a warranty request? When do I submit items for my 60-day or 11-month walkthrough?

Our online system gives homeowners the ability to conveniently submit their warranty items on our website, myhome.hypensolutions.com. When your 60-day and 11-Month dates approach you will receive an e-mail that outlines the instructions for submittals, along with a personal username and password. Please use this system when you submit your warranty list for review.

COSMETIC ITEMS

I have paint imperfections and marks on my walls. Will Robuck Homes fix these?

Robuck Homes’ warranty excludes coverage for any dents, scratches, marks, or other blemishes or imperfections. At your 11 -month walkthrough and service, as a courtesy we will repair nail pops and settlement cracks. However, these items are not warrantable, and will only be addressed one time.

I have a scratch on my countertop. Will Robuck Homes repair it?

All cosmetic surfaces in your new home were found to be in good and acceptable condition at your orientation. After closing, it is important to note that no warranty is provided for any scratches or dents present on hard surface flooring, countertops, mirrors, cabinets, or sinks.

COMMON OCCURRENCES

My hardwoods are making noise (i.e., creaking, popping)

The creaking and popping of site finished hardwoods are extremely common occurrences as all wood products are dramatically affected by relative humidity, temperature, moisture from spills and cleaning. If squeaks or pops can be replicated in a specific, concentrated area of the floor, we will attempt to reduce the occurrence or noise level, however this is not guaranteed. Often as the seasons change so will the noises from your hardwoods.

My site finished hardwood floors are cupping.

Site finished hardwood floors are extremely sensitive to moisture and climate conditions. Slight changes in the humidity and temperature of your home can cause dramatic changes in the appearance of site finished hardwood floors. Robuck holds our floors to National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) performance guidelines. If cupping is outside tolerances established by NWFA, we will address.

I/we acknowledge receipt of theRobuck Homes Warranty FAQ.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

WARRANTY FAQ CON’T

My water pressure is low, can Robuck adjust pressure?

Water pressure is commonly a factor of your community’s water supply, either from your municipality or community well system. Often it is outside a builder’s control to adjust pressure. However, every home is installed with a Pressure Regulating Valve (PRV). Robuck can verify it is set correctly, however we will not adjust. A licensed plumber needs to make the adjustments.

I have an electrical outlet not working.

Check to see if it is controlled by a GFIC Outlet. These would be installed in areas where there might be water: bathroom, kitchen, garage, or exterior outlets. The outlets may be run in a circuit so the reset control may be located on another outlet in the circuit (ex. powder room outlet may be reset in the hall bath). If not controlled by a GFIC outlet check the breaker panel box to see if a breaker has been tripped. If so, reset the breaker. If it’s not the breaker or the GFIC contact the electrician for the next step.

Carpet Seams or fuzzing are visible

Regularly vacuuming your carpet is the most important thing you can do to protect it. The seams are most visible when the carpet is first installed. Usually with time, use, and vacuuming the seams become less noticeable. It is common for new carpeting, especially pile carpeting, to shed fibers over time. Vacuuming eventually removes these loose fibers. Visible seams, fuzzing and wear marks do not warrant corrective action by Robuck Homes.

MAINTENANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

How often do I change my air return filters?

Once a month. If you have pets, you may need to change them more often. Remember, a dirty air filter not only makes your system work harder resulting in higher utility bills, but it may lead to costly repairs to your system.

How often should I have my HVAC serviced?

Regular maintenance helps ensure that your system operates efficiently and effectively. Refer to the Home Maintenance Schedule in this book for quarterly and annual recommended maintenance.

I have dead spots in my grass, dead bushes, dead tree(s), or other landscaping issues. Will Robuck fix these?

Landscaping items including but not limited to grass, flowers, shrubs, and trees are not covered under warranty. During your homeowner orientation, we will ensure all plant materials are in a healthy condition. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining and nurturing their landscaping.

I/we acknowledge receipt of theRobuck Homes Warranty FAQ.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

WARRANTY FAQ CON’T

Why do I have so many weeds in my grass? Other yards do not have weeds. Numerous factors contribute to weeds, none of which lead to a warrantable situation. Weeds can only be prevented and controlled with a regular treatment program. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to manage weed control, especially in newly established yards.

When can I stain my deck or screen porch?

Robuck Homes recommends waiting for a full season cycle, or approximately one year before applying stain and sealer to your pressure treated surfaces.

I have standing/running water in my yard, sometimes it looks like a river. Your yard has been graded in adherence to North Carolina’s building code. This requires positive drainage away from your foundation. Furthermore, swales are installed to allow water to concentrate and drain away from your home. During rain events water will build in these areas by design to then flow away from your home. After rain events you can expect to see standing water in your yard for up to 48 hours. During seasons of increased rainfall, you can expect soils to be saturated for several weeks. This can be observed by water pushing up around your shoe when stepping on wet areas.

My cabinets are pulling away from the wall or I have a crack between my backsplash and countertop. You can expect expansion and contraction in all areas of your home. The results of expansion and contraction are cracking or gapping where solid surface planes intersect. The intersection of four surfaces occurs in your kitchen walls, cabinets, tile, and countertops. Each of these items will move independently causing the grout and caulk to crack where they meet. This is incredibly common, and it is a part of the regular maintenance of your home to re-caulk these areas. Kitchens with exterior walls are more likely to experience this. Gaps over ¼ inch can be reviewed by Robuck Homes to ensure no other underlying issues exist.

My concrete has a crack, will Robuck replace or fix it?

Robuck will review any cracks that are over ¼” wide and have vertical displacement.

I have mold on the outside of my home. Will Robuck repaint it?

Mold/Mildew and other stains on the outside of the home are normal occurrences and are not the result of inferior paint products or materials. By pressure washing regularly and using an exterior cleaning product, mildew or other stains can be removed. Shortly after your move-in, cleaning the exterior might become necessary.

I/we acknowledge receipt of theRobuck Homes Warranty FAQ.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

WARRANTY FAQ CON’T

THINGS THAT COULD VOID YOUR WARRANTY

1. Alterations in grading or insufficient landscape maintenance by homeowners or neighbors can cause water intrusion or drainage issues (i.e., washouts, trees planted in swales, fences placed in swales or improperly installed irrigation systems).

2. Installation of upgrades after closing may affect certain parts of your warranty. For instance, improper installation of items like ceiling fans, fences, or plumbing fixtures could potentially void warranty coverage.

WARRANTY CONTRACT ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

1. No Oral Agreements

Only written agreements will be honored

2. Give us a chance to fix the defect

During the warranty period, Robuck Homes must be allowed to address all items that are considered defects. If you choose to resolve something with outside contractors or fail to allow access, Robuck Homes will not be held responsible for the cost.

3. Consequential damages are excluded from warranty

Items of a personal nature must be claimed through your homeowners insurance policy in the event of damage or loss.

I/we acknowledge receipt of theRobuck Homes Warranty FAQ.

Homeowner Signature and Date

Homeowner Signature and Date

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

HOME MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

HOME MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

The following maintenance schedule is a recommendation for maintaining your home but may not include all required maintenance.

Fall/Winter

Besurethatgardenhosesaredisconnectedfromhosebibtopreventfrozenpipes. Turnoffwatertoexteriorspigots(incrawlspaceatindividualspigot)topreventfrozenpipes. Ifweatherbecomesextremelycold,leavecabinetdoorsbelowsinksopen,leaveindoor faucetsonexteriorwallsdripping, checktobesurethatALLroomshaveadequateheatto preventfrozenpipesinsidethewalls.Donotcloseoffanyheatedspaces

Removeiceand/orsnowbuild-upsfromrooftopreventleaks

Reseedandfertilizelawn

Pruneshrubsasneeded

InspectandMaintaintheflowofswales-checktobesurethatpositivedrainisopen

Checkmainwatercutoffvalve-isitaccessibleandoperable?

Verifythatdryerventisconnectedandfreeofobstructions

Checkthecrawlspace-besurethereisnostandingwater,allpipes,HVACsupplylinesand insulationintactand

Winterizeirrigationsystemtopreventfreezingofbackflowvalveassembly

Replacebatteryinsmokedetector

Spring/Summer

Watershrubsdaily

Pruneshrubsasneeded

CheckHVACcondensatedraintobesurethatitisflowingwhenairconditionerisrunning Reseedand fertilizelawn

InspectandMaintaintheflowofswales-checktobesurethatpositivedrainisopen

Checkmainwatercutoffvalve-isitaccessibleandoperable?

Verifythatdryerventisconnectedandfreeofobstructions

Checkthecrawlspace-besurethereisnostandingwater,allpipes,HVACsupplylinesand insulationintactandsecure

Inspectandtightennutsandboltsonpull-downstairs(whereapplicable)

Replacebatteryinsmokedetector

Annually

Professionallysteamcleancarpetsandapplystainguard

CheckHVACexhaustfluesforleaksorobstructions(alsocheckafterstorms)

HaveaprofessionalcheckandmaintainHVACsystem(IncludingtheERVsystem)

VacuumERVcore(wherethefiltersits)&sensor.

CheckERVexteriorwallcapandcleanifnecessary

Applyawatersealtoallexteriortreatedwood

Fertilizetreesandprunedeadbranches

Inspecttheexteriorpaintandcaulkingonyourhome,recaulkand repaintasnecessary

Renewmaintenancecontractwithpestcontrolcompany

Cleanoutweepholesinbrickveneer

Washentireexteriorofhouse

Checkwashingmachinehosesforleaks, dryrot.Checkconnectionsforleaks.Replacehoses orwashersasneeded.

Inspectandcleanfireplaceflue. Maintaincaulkattheinteriorfireplacefacing. Drainwaterheater

Tightennutsandboltsongaragedoortracks(ifapplicable)

Quarterly

Clean guttersanddownspouts-removedebrisfromroof

Checkpaintedexteriorrails,entrancefeatures,windowheadersfor repairsneededtopaintorcaulk

Oilallmovingpartsongaragedoorandtracks

Adjustand/orrecaulkexteriordoorthresholds

Checkandmaintaingroutandcaulkinbathstopreventleaks

Checkandmaintaincaulkbetweenwallsandcountertops

Checkcrawlspaceforanystandingwater

Besurepositivedrainintheyardisfreefromobstruction

Checkrangeexhaustvent-tightenconnectionsandremoveblockages

WashERVCorefiltersw/lukewarmwaterwithmildsoap,letdry&replace

Checkwhen complete

SOURCES

Portions of the book were sourced from:

National Association of Home Builders, Residential Construction Performance Guidelines for Professional Builders & Remodelers, Fifth Edition

National Association of Home Builders, Your New Home and How to Take Care of It

Mancl, K.M. 1984. Journal of Environmental Engineering, Vol. 110(1):283–285.

(This publication is a revision of an earlier version.)

NOTES

NOTES