Maintenance
A leak can be fixed, but a fire rarely gives you a second chance. From 2026, Ontario's carbon monoxide alarm requirements extend to every storey. This guide covers the current alarm rules, wiring and dryer hazards, fireplace and kitchen safety, escape plans, and the checks to do when you take over a home.
Maintenance
A bang on the roof in the middle of the night, ducts thumping when the heat comes on, a crackling water heater, a toilet that keeps running... Most sounds come from expansion and contraction and are nothing to worry about, but a few mean it's time to fix something, and some call for immediate action. This article organizes them by system into one table, with how to tell them apart.
Maintenance
When the weather turns cold, mice look for a way into the house. This article covers how mice get in, how to tell whether you have them, choosing between traps and poison, how to clean up droppings safely, when to call a professional, and most importantly, sealing entry points and a prevention checklist.
Maintenance
Toronto winters are cold and long, and many winter and spring home problems can be prevented in the fall. This checklist is organized into three stages, September to November, December to February, and early spring in March, with why, how and whether to do it yourself or hire someone for each item, plus checks before travelling in winter and snow-clearing rules.