A sum paid to the seller to show that a potential purchaser is serious about buying.

- The horizontal exterior roof overhang.

- A formal contract which allows a party to use another party's property for a specific purpose. e.g. A sewer easement might allow one party to run a sewer line through a neighbor’s property. A limited right, whether temporary or permanent, to use the property of another in a certain way. This may include the right of access to water, light and air, right-of-way, etc.

The ratio of stress to strain.

A metal strap used to secure gas hot water heaters to the framing or foundation of a house. Intended to reduce the chances of having the water heater fall over in an earthquake and causing a gas leak.

The Btu output divided by the input in watts. The higher the EER the more efficient the equipment.

Partially treated liquid sewage flowing from any part of a disposal system to a place of final disposition.

The property of a material that causes it to return to its original shape upon removal of a deforming load.

The greatest stress a material can withstand without permanent deformation upon the release of the stress.

The sensation produced by the combined effects of temperature, relative humidity, and air movement.

Having the properties of an elastomer.

- A means of exiting the home. An egress window is required in every bedroom and basement. Normally a 4' X 4' window is the minimum size required

The ability of a material to return to its original position after a load has been removed.

A macromolecular material that returns to its approximate initial dimensions and shape after being subjected to substantial deformation.

A white soluble salt deposit on the surface of concrete and masonry, usually caused by free alkalies leached from the mortar by moisture moving through it.

The ability of a material to conduct an electric current.

The movement of electrons in an electric conductor.

A plumbing or electrical fitting that lets you change directions in runs of pipe or conduit.

The rate of generating, transferring, or using electric energy. It is expressed in watts (W) and kilowatts (kW).

- The entry point of the electrical power including: (1) the 'strike' or location where the overhead or underground electrical lines connect to the house, (2) The meter which measures how much power is used and (3) The 'panel' or 'circuit breaker box ' (or 'fuse box') where the power can be shut off and where overload devices such a fuses or circuit breakers and located.