Utility emergencies

If you live in an area subject to extreme weather conditions, power outages are inevitable. Heavy winds and storms can cause a power outage, so while there's not much you can do to prevent it, there are measures you can take to stay calm and relaxed. Buying a generator to power you, cleaning up hazards like patio furniture, and having an emergency plan will put you at ease and ensure you know what to do if a power outage occurs.

If your shower drain or toilet is clogged, its cause could be the items and materials you put in it. Bathrooms, in particular, aren't meant to handle anything other than toilet paper and what comes out of you, so if you're the type of homeowner who throws food scraps down your toilet, it's time to change your ways. Excess hair can cause blockages in your shower drain that are difficult to fix on your own.

A damaged roof can be costly to repair if you leave it on for too long. Homeowners should regularly check their roof and be on the lookout for broken or missing roof tiles. If your downspout or gutter is clogged, it can be fixed as a DIY job while a damaged roof will need a licensed professional to correct the problem. Any missing shingles should be replaced immediately, and be sure to inspect flashes around valleys, chimneys, and vents. Your roof is there to protect everyone who lives in the property. To avoid the risk of it collapsing on your property, it is recommended to contact a specialist.

Broken doors and windows can be a nuisance to fix. If your front door or windows are damaged, they should be repaired as soon as possible. The last thing you want is for a thief to discover the problem and gain access to your property. Contacting a professional directly is essential. If you don't have the money to hire an expert to fix your window or door, there are do-it-yourself instructions you can follow to select broken glass in a window or door. It's essential that you follow the instructions thoroughly or you could do more damage than good.

A gas leak in your home can be hazardous and endanger the life of you and your loved one. A spark or flame in an enclosed space full of gas can easily cause a fire or an explosion. If you start to smell gas or think there is a gas leak, make sure everyone in your home is left immediately. There are other tips to follow, such as opening all doors and windows, turning off the gas supply, and contacting a licensed gas installer who can fix the leak and get your home habitable again. A gas leak can cause carbon monoxide poisoning and be fatal, so never ignore the warning signs.

As careful as you are, you will be amazed at how many homeowners find themselves locked out of their property. Whether you take out the trash, get locked out by your kids, or lose your key on the road, no one wants to be stuck in front of the front door longer than necessary. If you live alone, you should hide a spare key that can give you peace of mind if you lose your original set. If you are friendly with your neighbours, giving them a spare key will allow you to access your property if you get locked out.

If you spot a water leak right away and take action, fixing the problem will only cost you a few hundred dollars. However, if you ignore the problem, it can add up to thousands and cause structural damage to your property over time. A water leak can also increase your water bill, so you must act quickly. While you may want to fix the problem yourself, it is best to leave it to a professional, such as a plumber. Before a plumber arrives at your house, several steps are taken, such as turning off your water tap and using water-resistant tape to cover the leak.