Inspections and Permits

Passive survivability is a life-safety issue. How long could you live in your house without power or fuel?by Alex Wilson

The most-important door in your house might just be a blower door

Reports from three case studies outline what it takes to achieve LEED for Home's silver, gold, and platinum ratingsby Sean Groom

LEED for Homes is a new, comprehensive national certification program for green, energy-efficient homes. Builders who’ve tried it like it, but will it change the way houses are built?by Sean Groom

Federal and state incentive programs make rehabilitating durable old buildings cost-effectiveby John K. Grosvenor

Follow the inspection of a 200-year-old house, from attic to basementby George Nash

by Lynn Underwood

by Daniel S. Morrison

Some are illegal, some are dangerous, and some are both—but all are simple to avoidby Joseph Fratello

Providing natural light, fresh air, and a code-compliant exit can be the most important aspect of any basement remodelby Roger German

by Daniel S. Morrison

by Lynn Underwood

An architect explains why fixed-price and T&M contracts are not your only options when hiring a general contractor by Robert Knight

Vague language allows flexibility for inspectors, but it can be confusing to the rest of us. How do you score?by Paul Fisette

A handy one-way valve eliminates most of the plumbing workby Lynn Underwood

Disputes can be avoided with change orders that provide accurate records of costsby Scott Wynn

Inspect the electrical panel and exposed wiring to identify safety risks and upgrade optionsby Clifford A. Popejoy

If you're bringing electricity to an outbuilding, digging the trench is probably the toughest part of the jobby Joseph Truini

Although a 200-amp service is adequate for most residences, calculating the actual load is a good idea. This chart from Code Check Electrical can help you with your calculations.by Clifford A. Popejoy