Renters Now Rule in Region

Metro Atlanta: "For Rent"

That is the picture painted by new housing data released this week by the US Census Bureau. From 2000 to 2010 the supply of new housing units outpaced demand by 50 percent in the four largest counties.(Fulton, Gwinnett, Dekalb, and Cobb) The result: In those four counties alone more than 143,000 houses, condos, apartments and other units were vacant in 2010- and 67,000, or nearly half, were for rent. That's good news for renters and bad news for landlords and often for neighborhoods.

The recession also converted many owners to renters, often against their will. I have a rental property, which is now lived in by a man who can easily afford to buy his own house. However, due to the current market, he is scared to purchase a home he may be stuck with for years to come.  Owners still outnumber renters across the 28 county metro region, but the balance has shifted in the direction of rentals, according to the census data. A lot of landlords are having a hard time finding people willing to pay the same rate as their mortgage, because there is so much competition. I did not experience this problem; due to the fact my house is located near a college. So there is a higher demand for rental properties. The old adage location, location, location rings true.

Despite the grim census figures taken one year ago, housing experts say that Atlanta's rental market is looking up and will continue to improve in coming years. According to a real estate market analyst, there is a tremendous growth in home rentals in Atlanta and surrounding areas.

Total vacancies: Percent change from 2000 to 2010

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Is It Time For The Christmas Tree ALREADY?

It is hard to believe that we are seeing these trees going up already. It seems that they are going up earlier and earlier each year. None the less it is time to review some important safety tips. The following link has some GREAT ideas on a variety of topics which I hope you find beneficial for your home safety. http://www.homesafetycouncil.org/SafetyGuide/sg_holiday_w002.asp

I hope you enjoy and please pass along any tips you find interesting and helpful to your family and friends.

All The Best!!

Peter Kanavas - Contents Supervisor

Cooking and Kitchen Safety - Fire Prevention

We have had numerous kitchen fires to respond to. One in particular was extinguished rapidly by a fast thinking and fast acting young lady. She knew in advance what to do so when she had to she jumped into action saving the home from any major structural damage and herself from any harm.

I know that just reading the above may not help you so please read the below and visit the linked site so you too will be properly prepared:

Cooking Safety

Families spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It is often the favorite place to be together. But many injuries can happen there. To stay safe when you are cooking and eating, here are some tips. http://www.homesafetycouncil.org/SafetyGuide/sg_cooking_w001.asp

Thanks, and stay safe!

Peter Kanavas - Contents Department Manager

Water Damage Prevention for Your Commercial Building

Every building is at risk of water damage. Over 7,000 fire, water and storm losses are reported each day - water is the most common. The causes can range from minor roof leaks to major storm damage. Protecting the roofs, walls and windows is essential to reducing the likelihood of water damage. The following checklist will help you to protect your business from a costly water damage.

Roofs
- Inspect all rooftop penetrations regularly inside and out.
- Inspect seals around HVAC systems to be sure they are intact.
- Inspect condition of flashings around skylights, vents and other rooftop elements.
- Inspect for water stains.
- If your roof is flat, inspect roof drains monthly.

Walls

 - Inspect wall penetrations for proper flashing and sealant integrity.
- Inspect wall joints at windows, doors, electrical and plumbing penetrations.

Windows

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Know Your Water Damage Categories

Water damage is typically classified into one of the following three categories:

Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "Clean Water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when exposed or even consumed. Known as "Grey Water".

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Should I Be Concerned About Lead Poisoning During a Renovation Job?

Should I Be Concerned About Lead Poisoning During a Renovation Job?

If your home was built before 1978 there is a good chance that the paint on the walls has lead in it. Lead is a toxic metal that was commonly used in paints manufactured before that date. In fact, the older a home is, the chances that lead is in the paint are even greater. The EPA has a saying, "Lead paint comes with a lifetime guarantee. It'll do damage for generations.""What's on your walls?" That's the EPA slogan. If you have a newer home, you have no worries. But if your home was built prior to 1978, and you have remodeling to be done, your paint should be tested for lead. This is especially important if there are children living in the home. Children under 6 years of age are highly susceptible to lead-based poisoning. In fact, some pediatricians routinely test the children under their care for lead in their system. It is a serious matter since lead-poisoning can cause brain damage.

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Tornado Survival Skills

Tornado Survival Skills

Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a tornado hazard.

A tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area. You should monitor NOAA Weather Radio (www.weather.gov/nwr), local radio and television news outlets for the latest developments.

A tornado warning comes when a tornado is actually occurring. Take shelter immediately.
Determine in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado warning.
Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.

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Insurance Restoration: Green Remodeling

Most of us with existing homes are probably not working on plans to sell our homes and build an award-winning Green home. I'm just saying! However, many of us will experience some type of loss at our home that will require remodeling repairs. Others may be planning a remodel of an existing room. In either case you can still THINK GREEN!

What many people fail to understand about Green building is that it is an environmental effort, both within the home and outside. The effort is to lessen the impact on energy & the environment while increasing the quality of life inside the home. Some efforts include better insulation, use of products with recycled content, use of items which do not give off volatile organic compounds, energy efficient appliances & lighting, etc. I encourage you to research the many options available to you to improve the quality of life within your home, one room at a time.

And, lest I forget, you may want to check with your insurance agent in the near future. Some (i.e. Chubb, Travelers, Fireman's Fund, etc.) are now offering Green Upgrade policies which will allow you to upgrade to Green products if you experience a insurance loss to your home.

Jerry Quarles - Estimator

Fire Extinguisher Safety

Being prepared and able to fight small fires can prevent massive fire damage and save you the need for fire and smoke restoration services.

Before considering fighting any fire there are a few things that you should know.

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How Would You Handle This Claim?

Question # 1: How much does a house weigh?

Question # 2: How much weight can a rural two-lane bridge Hold???

Question # 3: WOULD THIS BE COVERED BY HOME INSURANCE, CAR INSURANCE, OR, DOES IT COME UNDER ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE ???


 
Y' ALL HAVE A GREAT DAY NOW, YA' HEAR!!!!!