The following pages contain the actual warranty guidelines, item by item. Where a standard notes a limit or tolerance, conditions within that limit are considered normal and require no correction.
These guidelines are reproduced in full from the Highland Building Group limited warranty and, together with the Warranty Conditions that follow, are the governing terms of coverage.
A
Air Conditioning
The air conditioning system should maintain a temperature of 75 degrees or a differential of 17 degrees from the outside temperature, measured in the center of each room at a height of 5 feet above the floor. Lower temperature settings are often possible, but neither the manufacturer nor Highland Building Group guarantees this. If the outside temperature climbs into the upper 90's or higher it is normal that your unit may run seemingly all the time and may never quite satisfy the t-stat, especially if you are attempting to cool it below 75. Similarly in the winter, if unusual cold temps are occurring the unit may run 24/7 and never satisfy the t-stat if set in the 70's.
Compressor
The air conditioning compressor must be in a level position to operate correctly. If it settles during the warranty period, Highland Building Group will correct this.
Non-emergency
Lack of air conditioning service is not an emergency. Air conditioning contractors in our region respond to air conditioning service requests during normal business hours and in the order received.
Alarm System
If installed by builder, Highland Building Group will correct wiring that does not perform as intended for the alarm system. Highland Building Group makes no representation that the alarm system will provide the protection for which it is installed or intended.
Appliances
We confirm that all appliance surfaces are in acceptable condition during the final walk through. We assign all appliance warranties to the property owner, effective on the TCO date. The appliance manufacturers warrant their products directly to the property owner according to the terms and conditions of these written warranties stated within the appliance operating and maintenance manuals.
Attic Access
Highland Building Group and the local building department inspect any attics before the building turnover to confirm insulation is correct.
Highland Building Group's warranty does not cover any damage or personal injury that may result from a property owner, its employees, or its tenants walking in the attic and stepping off wood members onto the drywall.
Fixtures
During the final walk through we will confirm that brass fixtures are in acceptable condition. Highland Building Group does not warrant against corrosion damage to the external surfaces or internal workings of plumbing fixtures. This limitation includes solid brass or brass-coated fixtures.
B
Brick
We check the brick work during the orientation to confirm correct installation of designated materials.
Cracks
One time during the warranty period, we repair masonry cracks that exceed 3/16 inch.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a normal condition in new construction and is beyond Highland Building Group control; therefore, it is not covered under Highland Building Group limited warranty.
C
Cabinets
During the final walkthrough, we will confirm that all cabinet parts are installed and that their surfaces are in acceptable condition.
Alignment
Doors, drawer fronts, and handles should be level and even.
Operation
Cabinets should operate properly under normal use.
Separations
Over time caulking may shrink revealing a small amount of separation between the cabinets and/or countertops and the adjacent walls. This is normal as the underlying structural wood framing of the house will expand and contract with the changing of the seasons. Recaulking of these types of issues is the responsibility of the property owner. We will correct gaps between cabinets and the ceiling or cabinets and the walls that exceed 1/8 inch only (locations behind appliances are exempt from this repair). Use of caulk and or putty is an acceptable fix of this condition.
Warping
If doors or drawer fronts warp in excess of 1/4 inch within 24 inches, we will correct this by adjustment or replacement.
Wood Grain
Readily noticeable variations in wood grain and color are normal in all wood or wood veneer selections. Replacements are not made due to such variations.
Carpet
During the final walk through, we will confirm that the carpet is in acceptable condition. We will correct stains or spots noted at this time by cleaning, patching, or replacement. Highland Building Group is not responsible for dye lot variations if replacements are made nor can we replace carpet or clean it due to stains occurring after closing.
Edges
Edges of carpet along moldings and edges of stairs should be held firmly in place. In some areas, metal or other edging material may be used where carpet meets another floor covering.
Seams
Carpet seams may be visible depending on the selection. As such Highland Building Group will not be held responsible for visible seams so long as it is installed properly. We will not repair or replace any carpet after closing due to normal "wear and tear".
Fading
Exposure to natural light may cause spots and minor fading. Highland Building Group provides no correction for this condition under our warranty.
Caulking
During the orientation we confirm that appropriate areas are adequately caulked. Caulking is the property owner's maintenance responsibility.
Separations (from walls to cabinets, countertops, any wood trim, etc.)
Over time caulking may shrink revealing a small amount of separation between one surface to another. This is normal as the underlying structural wood framing of any building will expand and contract with the changing of the seasons. Recaulking of these types of issues is the responsibility of the property owner after the TCO date. We will correct gaps that exceed 1/8 inch only one time during the warranty period (locations behind appliances are exempt from this repair). Use of caulk and or putty is an acceptable fix of this condition.
Ceramic Tile
During the final walk through we confirm that tile and grout areas are in acceptable condition. We will repair or replace cracked, badly chipped, or loose tiles noted at that time. Highland Building Group is not responsible for variations in color or discontinued patterns. New grout may vary in color from the original. Sealing, if desired, would be the responsibility of the property owner.
Cracks
Cracks appearing in grouting of ceramic tiles at joints or junctions with other materials are commonly due to shrinkage. Highland Building Group will repair grouting, if necessary, one time during the first year with cracks exceeding 1/8" only. We are not responsible for color variations in grout or discontinued colored grout. Any grouting or caulking that is needed after that time is the property owner's responsibility.
Concrete Flatwork
Concrete slabs are not integral to the building's foundation walls. As such, these slabs are not a structural (load-bearing) element of the building; they are excluded from coverage under the structural warranty. The limited warranty coverage is for one year. Concrete sealing, if desired, would be the responsibility of the property owner.
Color/Stains
Concrete slabs vary in color. Highland Building Group warrants no correction for this condition. Concrete is a porous product and as such is susceptible to staining from spills, leaf matter, storm runoff, etc. Highland provides no warranty after the respective TCO dates for any stains that may occur in concrete surfaces. Driveways, exterior walks, stairs and/or garage slabs are not sealed. Sealing, if desired, would be the responsibility of the property owner.
Cracks
If concrete cracks reach 3/16 of an inch in width or vertical displacement, Highland Building Group will patch or repair them one time during the warranty year. Subsequently, concrete slab maintenance is the property owner's responsibility.
Finished Floors
Highland Building Group will correct cracks, settling, or heaving that rupture finish floor materials that we installed as part of the building subject to the 3/16 separation listed under "Cracks" above. (Finished floor is defined as any tile, hardwood, marble, etc. on the inside of a building or dwelling unit.)
Level Floors
Concrete floors in the habitable areas of a building will be level to within 1/4 inch within any 32-inch measurement with the exception of an area specifically designed to slope toward a floor drain or opening such as a garage slab.
Separation
Highland Building Group will correct separation of concrete slabs from a building if separation exceeds 1 inch.
Settling or Heaving
Highland Building Group will repair slabs that settle or heave in excess of 2 inches or if such movement results in negative drainage (toward the building) or hazardous vertical displacement.
Spalling (Surface Chips)
Causes of spalling include repeated hosing of concrete for cleaning, animal urine, radiator overflow, fertilizer, un-cleared snow and ice, ice-melting agents, and road salts from vehicles. Repair of spalling is a property owner maintenance task.
Standing Water
Water may stand on exterior concrete slabs for several hours after precipitation or from roof run-off. Highland Building Group will correct conditions that cause water to remain longer than 24 hours unless it is from roof run-off of melting snow or ice.
Condensation
Condensation results from weather conditions and a family's lifestyle. Highland Building Group has no control over these factors. The limited warranty coverage excludes condensation.
Countertops
During the final walkthrough we confirm that all countertops are in acceptable condition. We repair noticeable surface damage such as chips, cracks, and scratches noted on the final punch list. Repair of surface damage noted subsequent to this is property owner maintenance responsibility. Sealing, if desired, would be the responsibility of the property owner.
Laminates
Laminated countertops will have one or more discernible seams. Highland Building Group will repair gaps or differential at the seams that exceed 1/16 inch.
Manufactured Marble
Edges should be smooth and even. Where backsplash joints occur at corners, the top edges should be even within 1/16 inch.
Separation from Wall
Separation of countertops from walls, backsplash, and around sinks results from normal shrinkage of materials. See "Caulking" above.
D
Decks / Fencing
Decks
Exposed wood decks are constructed to meet structural and functional design. During the final walk through, we will confirm that the wood decks are in satisfactory condition.
Fencing
Highland Building Group will correct posts that become loose during the warranty period. Be aware that damage to fencing caused by severe weather should be referred to your insurance company and is specifically excluded from warranty coverage. Damages from property owner negligence will not be covered under warranty. Highland Building Group is not responsible for staining and sealing exterior fencing. Fencing should be sealed no later than 60 days from installation. This will help mitigate the warping and twisting and will improve the lifespan of the fencing. Highland Building specifically excludes the warping and twisting so often exhibited by wood fencing. These materials are natural wood and we have no control over the moisture content in these materials or the degree to which they are exposed to sunlight. This process may cause significant twisting and warping which is excluded from this warranty.
Color Variation
Color variations are a natural result of the way in which wood accepts stain and are excluded from limited warranty coverage.
Replacement Boards or Rails
Shrinkage, cracking, splitting, cupping, and twisting are natural occurrences in wood decks and fencing and are excluded from limited warranty coverage. If Highland Building Group provides replacement of boards or rails, the new material will not match existing pieces that have been exposed to elements and use. Highland Building Group does not provide corrections when problems occur due to lack of normal maintenance.
Doors and Locks
During the final walk through we confirm that all doors are in acceptable condition and correctly adjusted. Highland Building Group will repair construction damage to doors noted on the orientation list.
Adjustments
Because of normal settling, doors may require adjustment for proper fit. Highland Building Group will make such adjustments one time during the 11 month warranty walk.
Panel Shrinkage
Panels of wood doors shrink and expand in response to changes in temperature and humidity. Touching up the paint or stain on unfinished exposed areas resulting from normal contraction and expansion of the materials is the responsibility of the property owner.
Warping
Highland Building Group will repair doors that warp in excess of 1/4 inch.
Drywall
During the final walk through, we confirm that drywall surfaces are in acceptable condition. Due to normal settlement of wood frame structures some cracks may occur during the warranty period. This movement may cause "nail pops" in the drywall.
Highland Building Group excludes repairs from normal settlement from the warranty. Highland Building will repair nail pops one time during the warranty to any that have projected through the drywall surface. Subtle humps or bumps will not be repaired.
Lighting Conditions
Highland Building Group does not repair drywall flaws that are only visible under particular lighting conditions. During the walkthrough, our representative should discuss the '5' Rule', meaning simply that if you cannot see the item when standing 5' away from the wall then it is within acceptable tolerance and will not be altered.
Related Warranty Repairs
If a drywall repair is needed as a result of poor workmanship (such as blisters in tape) or other warranty-based repair (such as a plumbing leak), Highland Building Group completes the repair by touching up the repaired area with the same paint that was on the surface when the building was delivered. If more than one-third of the wall is involved, we will repaint the wall corner to corner. The property owner is responsible for custom paint colors or wallpaper that has been applied subsequent to the TCO date. The effects of time on paint and wallpaper, as well as possible dye lot variations, mean touch-up may not match the surrounding area.
E
Electrical Systems
During the final walk through we will confirm that all fixtures are in working order. After that point all bulbs that burn out will be the property owner's responsibility.
Modifications
If the property owner wishes to make modifications, contact the electrician listed on your 'Emergency Contact List'. Having another electrician modify your electrical system during the warranty period can void that portion of your limited warranty.
NOTE: Never plug a refrigerator or food freezer into a GFCI controlled outlet. The likelihood of the contents being ruined is high and the limited warranty does not cover such damage.
Expansion and Contraction
See individual categories such as drywall, caulking, and concrete for details.
F
Fireplace
Fireplaces are not intended to be the sole heat source in a building or individual unit. The fireplace should function properly when Highland Building Group and the manufacturer's directions are followed.
Chimney Separation
Separation of a brick chimney from a newly constructed building may occur. Highland Building Group will repair separation from the main structure in excess of 1/2 inch in 10 feet. Caulking is acceptable unless the separation is due to a structural failure of the chimney foundation.
Cracks
Normal shrinkage of mortar results in hairline cracks in masonry. Highland Building Group will repair cracks that exceed 1/8" in width. The repair consists of pointing or patching and the mortar color will be matched as closely as possible, but expect some discoloration.
Discoloration
Discoloration of the firebox or brick is a normal result of use and requires no corrective action. Mortar-style fireplaces may develop cracks due to temperature changes and other factors.
Downdraft
Although extremely high winds can result in a downdraft, this condition should be temporary and occasional. We will determine and correct continuous malfunction if caused by a construction or defect.
Glass Doors
During the final walk through we confirm that glass fireplace doors, when included within the property, are in acceptable condition.
Water Infiltration
In unusually heavy or prolonged precipitation, especially when accompanied by high winds, some water can enter the building through the chimney. The limited warranty excludes this occurrence.
Foundation
The foundation has been designed and installed according to building code standard in effect at the time the property was built.
Cosmetic Imperfections
Slight cosmetic imperfections in foundation walls, such as a visible seam where two pours meet or slight honeycombing (aggregate visible), are possible and require no repair unless they permit water intrusion into the interior of a building above the finished floor.
Cracks
Shrinkage or backfill cracks are not unusual in foundation walls, especially at the corners of basement windows. Highland Building Group will seal cracks that exceed 1/8 inch in width.
Leaks
Highland Building Group will correct conditions that permit water to enter the basement, provided you have complied with the drainage, landscaping, and maintenance guidelines.
G
Overhead Garage Door
Since the garage door is a large, moving object, periodic maintenance is necessary. Please consult the manufacturer's literature. The garage door should operate smoothly and with reasonable ease. The door can become misaligned and require adjustment. Highland Building Group will provide this unless the problem is caused by the negligence or abuse through no fault of Highland Building Group.
Light Visible
Garage doors cannot be airtight. Some light will be visible around the edges and across the top or bottom of the door. Weather conditions may result in some precipitation entering around the door as well as some dust, especially until most buildings in the community have landscaping installed.
Gas Shut-Offs
The gas company is responsible for leaks up to the meter. Highland Building Group will correct leaks from the meter into the building.
Grading and Drainage
We established final grade to ensure adequate drainage away from the buildings. Maintaining this drainage is the property owner's responsibility. If the property owner alters the drainage pattern after the TCO date or if changes in drainage occur due to lack of maintenance, the limited warranty is void.
Backfill Settlement
Backfilled or excavated areas around the foundation and at utility trenches should not interfere with the drainage away from any buildings. If these areas settle sufficiently to cause a change in the drainage pattern resulting in damage or pose a danger to public safety, Highland Building Group will correct one time during the warranty period.
Erosion
Highland Building Group is not responsible for weather-caused damage to un-landscaped areas after the final grade has been established or the TCO date, whichever occurs last.
New Sod
New sod installation and the extra watering that accompanies it can cause temporary drainage problems, as can unusually severe weather conditions. It is normal for lawns to appear and feel soppy wet during the first week or two of the sod installation as it takes heavy watering if installed during the hotter summer months for the sod to effectively root and survive.
Recommendations
Highland Building Group documents the grades that exist at the time of delivery of the property or as soon thereafter as possible. The ground must be dry and free of frost to make these determinations. Once final grades are set, Highland Building Group will inspect drainage problems reported in writing during the warranty period, compare grades to those originally established, and advise the property owner on corrective actions they might take.
Swales
Highland Building Group does not alter drainage patterns to suit individual landscape plans. Typically, a lot receives water from and passes water on to other lots, so changes in grade can often affect adjacent or nearby lots. Highland Building Group advises against making such changes. After heavy rain or snow, water may stand in swales up to 48 hours.
Under Concrete
Highland Building Group will fill visible sunken areas under concrete during the first year.
Winter Grading
Due to weather conditions, especially during winter and early spring, the final grade may not have been established at the time of TCO. We document the status of your grading at the time of delivery. When conditions permit, grading work will continue. Confirm that we have completed your grading before beginning landscaping.
Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters over 3 feet long are installed with a slight slope so that roof water will flow to the downspouts.
Leaks
We correct leaks that occur during the warranty period unless caused by negligence through no fault of the contractor or extreme "acts of God" such as hail, tornados, flooding, etc.
Overflow
Gutters may overflow during periods of excessively heavy rain. This is expected and requires no repair.
Standing Water
Small amounts of water (up to 1/2 inch) will stand for short periods of time in gutters immediately after rain. No corrective action is required for these conditions. It is the responsibility of the property owner to keep gutters free of debris.
H
Hardware
We confirm that all hardware is in acceptable condition during the final walk through. The limited warranty excludes repairs for cosmetic damage subsequent to the final walk through.
Hardwood Floors
During the final walk through we will confirm that hardwood floors are in acceptable condition. We will correct any readily noticeable cosmetic defects listed during final walk through. The property owner is responsible for routine maintenance of hardwood floors.
Separations
Shrinkage will result in separations between the members of hardwood floors. If these exceed 1/8-inch, Highland Building Group will fill them one time during the warranty period. Highland Building Group is not responsible for removing excess filler that appears on the surface if the boards expand due to subsequent changes in humidity and expel the filler. Residents can expect to see minor gaps between the boards during the colder drier winter months and may have some minor "cupping" at those same joints in the hotter more humid summer months. This is normal and requires no corrective action.
Heating Systems: Gas Forced Air
We will install heating systems according to local building codes, as well as to engineering designs of the property. Adequacy of the system is determined by its ability to establish a temperature of 70 degrees F, as measured in the center of a room, 5 feet above the floor. In extremely cold temperatures (10 degrees below or colder), the system should be able to maintain a temperature differential of approximately 55 degrees from the outside temperature.
Duct Replacement
The exact placement of heat ducts may vary from those positions shown in similar floor plans.
Ductwork
Although the heat system is not a sealed system, the ductwork should remain attached and securely fastened. If it becomes unattached, Highland Building Group will repair as needed during the warranty period.
Furnace Sounds
Expansion or contraction of metal ductwork results in ticking or popping sounds. While eliminating all these sounds is impossible, Highland Building Group will correct oil canning. (Oil canning occurs when a large area of sheet metal like those found in air ducts makes a loud noise as it moves up and down in response to temperature changes.)
Thermostat
Thermostats are calibrated to plus or minus 5 degrees.
Heating System: Heat Pump
Refer to manufacturer's limited warranty for information regarding warranty coverage.
I
Insulation
Highland Building Group will install insulation to meet or exceed the building codes applicable at the time of construction.
L
Landscaping
Highland Building Group does not warrant plant material. We will confirm the healthy condition of all plant materials during the final walkthrough. Maintaining landscaping is the property owner's responsibility.
M
Mildew / Mold
We will remove any active mildew or mold noted during the final walk through. Highland Building Group warranty excludes mildew/mold.
Mirrors
We will confirm that all mirrors are in acceptable condition during the final walk through. Highland Building Group will correct scratches, chips, or other damage to mirrors noted during the walk through. Subsequent damage is the responsibility of the property owner.
P
Paint and Stain
During the final walk through we will confirm that all painted or stained surfaces are in acceptable condition. Highland Building Group will touch up paint as indicated on the walk-through punch list. The property owner is responsible for all subsequent touch-up, except painting we perform as part of another warranty.
Cracking
As it ages, exterior wood trim will develop minor cracks and raised grain. Much of this will occur during the first year. Raised grain permits moisture to get under the paint and can result in peeling. This is not a defect in materials or workmanship. Paint maintenance of wood trim and gutters is the property owner's responsibility.
Fading
Expect fading of exterior paint or stain caused by the effects of sun and weather. Highland Building Group's limited warranty excludes any corrective action that is a result of normal fading.
Touch-Up Visible
A perfect match between original and new paint cannot be expected. Repairs will be finished to match the immediate surrounding areas as closely as practical.
Wood Grain
Because of natural wood characteristics, color variations will result when stain is applied to wood. This is natural and requires no repair. Today's water-based paints often make wood grain visible on painted trim. Highland Building Group does not provide corrective action for this condition.
Plumbing
During the final walk through we will confirm that all plumbing fixtures are in acceptable condition and are functioning properly, and that all the faucets and drains operate freely.
Clogged Drain
Highland Building Group will correct clogged drains that occur during the first 30 days after TCO date. If a household item is removed from a clogged drain during this time, we will bill the property owner for the drain service. After the first 30 days, the property owner is responsible for correcting clogged drains.
Cosmetic Damage
Highland Building Group will correct any fixture damage noted on the walk-through punch list. Repairing chips, scratches, or other surface damage noted subsequent to the punch list is the property owner's responsibility.
Exterior Faucets
Highland Building Group will repair leaks at exterior faucets noted on the final punch list. Subsequent to the final walk through, repair of a broken line to an exterior faucet is the property owner's responsibility.
NOTE: If a hose is connected to an exterior faucet and it freezes, more than likely this will result in damage to the line. The property owner would be responsible for any and all damages.
Freezing Pipes
Builder warranty does not cover freezing pipes. The property owner is responsible for draining or otherwise protecting pipes and exterior faucets exposed from freezing. Most garages are unheated so plumbing lines in the garage ceiling are susceptible to freezing during prolonged colder than usual winter temps. During those occurrences, residents can allow their faucets to drip to mitigate this.
Leaks
Highland Building Group will repair leaks in the plumbing system. If a plumbing leak caused by a warranted item results in drywall or floor covering damage, Highland Building Group will repair or replace items that were part of the building/unit as originally purchased. We do not make adjustments for secondary damages (for example, damage to wallpaper, drapes, and personal belongings). Property Insurance may cover these items.
Noise
Changes in temperature or the flow of the water will cause some noise in the pipes. This is normal and requires no repair. Highland Building Group will repair persistent water hammering.
Supply
Highland Building Group will correct construction conditions that disrupt the supply of water to a building or unit if they involve service from the main water supply to that building, provided actions of the property owner have not caused the problem. Disruption of service due to the failure of the water department system is the responsibility of the water department to correct.
R
Railings
During the final walk through we will confirm that all railings are in good condition. Highland Building Group installs railings in positions and locations to comply with applicable building codes. Railings should remain securely attached with normal use.
Resilient Flooring
We will confirm that resilient floor covering is in acceptable condition during the final walk through. Highland Building Group limited warranty does not cover damage to resilient floors caused by moving furniture or appliances in the building or unit. We can assist you in contacting professionals who can repair such damage if it occurs. Highland Building Group is not responsible for discontinued selections. Sealing or waxing, if desired, would be the responsibility of the property owner.
Adhesion
Resilient floor covering should adhere. Highland Building Group will repair lifting or bubbling and nail pops that appear on the surface.
Ridges
Highland Building Group has sanded and filled the joints of underlayment to minimize the possibility of ridges showing through resilient floor coverings. Ridging is measured by centering a 6-inch straight edge perpendicular to the ridge with one end tight to the floor. If the opposite end of the straight edge is 1/8 inch or more from the floor, Highland Building Group will repair this condition.
Seams
Seams will occur and are sealed at the time of installation. Highland Building Group will correct gaps in excess of 1/16 inch where resilient flooring pieces meet or 1/8 inch where resilient flooring meets another material. Highland Building Group will correct curling at seams unless caused by excessive water.
Roof
Highland Building Group will repair roof leaks other than those caused by negligence or acts of God such as severe weather. Roof repairs are made only when the roof is dry. If a leak occurs, the property owner should notify Highland through the company email or phone and then take steps to mitigate the damage by placing a container under the leak and dumping it periodically when it gets full.
Ice Dam
An ice build-up (ice dam) may develop in the eaves or valleys of a building's roof during extended periods of cold and snow. This is where the snow or ice creates a damming effect allowing water to drain back up under the shingles of a building. This damage is excluded from warranty.
Inclement Weather
Storm damage is excluded from warranty coverage.
Rough Carpentry
Some floor and stair squeaks are unavoidable. Although Highland Building Group does not warrant against floor squeaks, a reasonable effort will be made to correct them.
Floor Deflection
Floors will deflect (bend) when walked on. This will be more noticeable next to hutches, bookcases, pianos, chairs, and other heavy furniture. This is not a structural deficiency and Highland Building Group will take no action for this occurrence.
Floor Level
Floors will be level to within 1/4 inch within any 32-inch distance as measured perpendicular to any ridge or indentation.
Plumb Walls
Highland Building Group will correct walls that are out of plumb more than 1/2 inch in an 8-foot distance or walls that are bowed more than 1/4 inch in any 32-inch measurement.
S
Shower Doors or Tub Enclosures
During the final walk through we will confirm the good condition of all shower doors and tub enclosures. Highland Building Group warrants that shower doors and tub enclosures will function according to manufacturer specifications.
Siding
Highland Building Group warrants all siding to be free of defects in material and workmanship. We will confirm the good condition of the siding during the final walk through. Subsequent damage to the siding will be the property owner's responsibility to repair.
Separation
Highland Building Group does not caulk where siding abuts siding (not trim), per manufacturers guidelines. We will correct any separation where siding meets another material if the separation allows water to enter the building or unit. We will provide this repair one time only near the end of the first year. Paint or stain touch-up will not match. Highland Building Group will correct delaminating siding.
Bowing
Highland Building Group will fix any bow that exceeds 1/2" in 32 inches. Even with proper installation, siding will tend to bow inward and outward in adjacent stud spaces due to humidity and temperature changes.
Smoke Detectors
Highland Building Group does not represent that the smoke detectors will provide the protection for which they are installed or intended. We will test smoke detectors during the final walk through to confirm that they are working.
Stairs
Although Highland Building Group does not warrant against stair vibration and squeaks, a reasonable effort will be made to correct them.
T
Termites
A bait station termite service has been set up for each individual building. This is our final action for termites. Highland Building Group warranty excludes treatment for any other insect (such as ants) or animal (such as mice) infestations.
V
Ventilation
Highland Building Group warranty guidelines for active components (for example, exhaust fans) are discussed under the appropriate headings (such as electrical systems, heating systems, and so on).
W
Water Heater: Electric/Gas
Refer to the manufacturer's limited warranty for information regarding coverage of the water heater. Also see plumbing.
Windows, Screens, and Sliding Glass Doors
We will confirm that all windows, screens and sliding glass doors are in acceptable condition during the final walk through. Highland Building Group will repair or replace broken windows or damaged screens noted on the final punch list. Windows should operate with reasonable ease and locks should perform as designed. If they do not, Highland Building Group will provide adjustments.
Condensation
Condensation on interior surfaces of the window and frame is the result of high humidity within the building or a unit and low outside temperatures. Occupants also influence the humidity within a building/unit; Highland Building Group provides no corrective measure for this condition so long as the HVAC unit is operating correctly. Condensation that accumulates between the panes of glass in dual-glazed windows indicates a broken seal. Highland Building Group will replace the window if this occurs during the warranty period.
Infiltration
Some air and dust will infiltrate around windows, especially before the installation of landscaping in the general area. Highland Building Group warranty excludes this occurrence.
Scratches
Highland Building Group confirms that all window glass is in acceptable condition at the final walk through. Minor scratches on windows can result from delivery, handling, and other construction activities. Highland Building Group will replace windows that have scratches readily visible from a distance of 6 feet. Highland Building Group does not replace windows that have scratches visible only under certain lighting conditions. Scratches in glass must be reported prior to occupancy. Builder/Seller is not responsible for scratches in glass reported after occupancy.
Tinting
If the property owners add tinting to dual-glazed windows, all warranties are voided. Damage can result from condensation or excessive heat build-up between the panes of glass. Refer to the manufacturer's literature for additional information.
Wood Trim
During the final walk through we will confirm that wood trim is in acceptable condition. Minor imperfections in wood materials will be visible and will require no action. Highland Building Group will correct readily noticeable construction damage such as chips and gouges listed during the final walk through.
Exterior
Highland Building Group will caulk and apply touch-up paint to cracks in exterior trim components that exceed 3/16 inch. We provide this repair one time only near the end of the first year. Paint or stain touch-up will not match. We will correct any separation at joints that allow water to enter the building/unit.
Raised Grain
Because of the effects of weather on natural wood, the property owner should expect raised grain to develop. This is normal and not a defect in the wood or paint. Warranty coverage excludes this condition.
