Common Element Amenity Room - Plumbing + Mechanical

Homes must be kept at temperatures to prevent freezing at all times. If this is not possible, proper precautions should be taken to prevent freezing such as shutting off and draining the water supply system. For exterior hose bibs, shut off any associated interior valves and leave the exterior valve open as part of a regular seasonal maintenance program. Garden hoses must also be disconnected from the exterior hose bib. If a burst pipe is detected in a water supply pipe, the main water supply valve should be turned off immediately until the builder’s representative can assess the condition. 

Condensation may appear on water supply lines and toilets from time to time and is normal. 

Confirm proper operation of plumbing fixtures during the PDI and record any malfunction on the PDI Form. Plumbing fixtures, appliances or trim fittings must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. See Also: 6.4 FAUCET OR FIXTURE IS LEAKING 6.6 BATHTUB OR SHOWER LEAKS

Only identified damages recorded on the PDI form are eligible for warranty coverage. Maintain porcelain, enamel or fiberglass surfaces in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Professional re-finishing of porcelain, enamel or fiberglass surfaces are acceptable repairs. The coulour/texture of repaired areas shall match the existing as closely as possible.

Identify any damaged countertops during the PDI and record any damage on the PDI Form, to avoid any dispute about whether the damage was caused by the builder. Manufactured solid-surface countertops can be brittle and damaged by impact. Over-tightening of drains or fasteners may cause stress cracks. Care should be taken when cleaning or servicing to prevent cracking or chipping. See Also: 11.9 SCRATCHES/CHIPS ON COUNTERTOPS

Newer low-volume toilets, which are required for new homes by the Building Code, use less water to flush waste than older models, making their operation more sensitive to the effects of the: · amount of waste · amount of paper · volume of water in the tank. As a result, multiple flushes may be required.

Sewage backups into fixtures or drains (e.g., toilets, shower drains, laundry floor drains) are indicative of an interruption in the sewage disposal system. Backups occur when wastewater cannot drain freely to the main sewer system or septic field and has nowhere to go but to back up into fixtures or up through floor drains. This may be the result of a blockage, collapsed drainage pipe or a faulty backwater valve. This condition is warranted only if the blockage or backup results from the work or materials supplied by the builder. To help keep the sewage system working well and prevent sanitary sewer blockages, it is important not to flush or put the following products down drains: Hygiene products including sanitary napkins/liners, tampons, condoms, wipes (flushable/biodegradable/regular), cotton swabs, dental floss, diapers or rags. Fats, oils and cooking grease. When faced with a sewage backup, it is recommended that the plumbing in the home not be used until the stoppage is cleared out. This is to minimize further damage to the home. With respect to septic systems, improper maintenance by the homeowner includes: Connection of sump pump, roof drains or backwash from a water conditioner into the system. Placement of non-biodegradable items into the system. Use as food waste/grease disposal. 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. See also6.9 DEFECTIVE PLUMBING FIXTURES, APPLIANCES OR TRIM FITTINGS Notes: Words in italics are defined in the “TERMINOLOGY” section on page 19. This article was revised on May 24, 2024.

Some vibration may relate to poor maintenance of fixtures. The sound of water flowing through pipes is normal and not covered by the statutory warranty.

“Occupied spaces” means those areas normally occupied by residents. Noises or vibration likely to disturb the quiet enjoyment of a reasonable occupant should be addressed.

In some instances specialized equipment may be needed to access some equipment for maintenance; this is not warranted.

Typically a balancing report is used to demonstrate that a system meets design requirements.

Because they are connected to the exterior by a duct, ventilation fans are indirectly open to outside air. Even though these types of fans come equipped with dampers, they are not completely effective at eliminating cold air infiltration. Sometimes they can become obstructed and not close fully. As part of regular home maintenance, vent terminations on exterior walls should be inspected periodically to ensure the openings are not obstructed (e.g. by birds or other animals). See Also: 8.7 INSUFFICIENT INSULATION

Several factors affect living space temperatures: a) Directional orientation - north-facing rooms are generally cooler than south-facing rooms. b) Windows - glass has little insulating value and allows more heat to escape from the room. c) Rooms over garages - have insulated floors that lose heat to the unheated garage below. d) Airflow - free airflow from the supply outlet in a room to a return inlet or undercut door is essential. Generally, a minimum 25 mm space under interior doors above the finished floor covering should be provided. e) Personal preference - personal comfort differs between individuals. f) Use of programmable thermostats. Balancing the air delivery system may not completely compensate for the effects of these factors. In determining the temperature of a room, measurements shall be taken in the center of the room at 1,500 mm above the floor. Heat loss calculations and duct designs assist in determining the furnace size and adequacy of the heating system. See Also: 8.8 HEATING, VENTILATING OR AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) SYSTEMS NOT INSTALLED PROPERLY

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