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

- 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.

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 ratio of stress to strain.

- The horizontal exterior roof overhang.

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

- 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

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

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

Having the properties of an elastomer.

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

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