Are you moving to California? Perhaps buying a home? Before you make a final decision and sign the papers, there are a few important things your California home will absolutely need. In fact, these tips are also helpful for those who will be renting.

A Complete HVAC System

California is known as the Golden state because of the gold discovered in 1848 and the fields of golden poppies in the spring. However, many call it the golden state because it can sometimes seem like summer year-round. It can get pretty unbearably hot in some areas, which is why so many like to escape to the beach. You would think that with all of this heat, that having an air conditioner would be the norm. Yet, it is not. Many homes have swamp coolers, but that doesn’t always help entirely. That is why you need to make sure that there is a complete HVAC system. If there isn’t, though, you will definitely want to consider having one installed by Pacific Aire, Inc. or another HVAC service. Remember, a complete HVAC system includes a furnace and an AC. You may not be thinking you’ll need to use the heat too much, but it can get pretty cold at night when the heat has died down.

A Good Roof

For the most part, the temperatures are pretty temperate in California. But in many areas, especially up North near Oregon, when the winter rains hit they come down fast and hard. And just one rainstorm can do major damage to your home if you have a leaky roof. Before you buy a California home, double check the roof to make sure it is leak proof. Also, check the ceiling inside for any stains and tell-tell signs of leakage. If you’re living near the ocean, you’re going to want to also check for any signs of weathering as a result of the winds and salt air.

Seismic Retrofitting

For the most part, earthquakes are really not a big issue in most of California. However, there are some areas that experience minor shifts and higher scores on the Richter scales. Make sure to research your area before investing in a home. If the area you are considering has some earthquake activity, you may consider protecting your home with seismic retrofitting. According to the Foundation Technology, there are several ways to add seismic retrofitting to a home:

• Strengthen the roof to the wall top plate
• Add bolts or steel plates to secure the walls to the foundation
• Install metal fasteners and connectors on the joists and beams
• Reinforce concrete wall, masonry, chimneys and the foundation
• Install metal fasteners and connectors between the first and second floors
• If possible, add sheathing to the cripple or stud wall for reinforcement

A Solar Ready Roof

A recent post in the Mercury News reports that new homes and buildings need to have a “solar ready roof” as of Jan. 1, 2014. In fact, the roof needs to support a solar photovoltaic system. Mandatory requirements are designed to reduce energy. The new regulations are contained in the California Code of Regulations, also known as Title 24. Although new home and building owners do not need to install solar panels, the roof has to be ready for solar.

Moving to California is an exciting adventure—something that you and your family will definitely be glad you did. It is unlike any other part of the country! Hopefully, these tips will help you know what to look for when you start house hunting.

 

About the author: Hannah Whittenly is a freelance writer and mother of two from Sacramento, CA. She enjoys kayaking and reading books by the lake.