All the recent rain has drowned out much attention to the drought. Even so, there are steps that can be taken in homes to lesson their demand for water. For instance, homebuilders are implementing some smart ways to improve homes. And some state laws require making homes more water efficient. This is making water conservation a hot topic in the real estate world.
According to a state law effective Jan. 1, single-family homes now must be equipped with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. Home are required to have these features and if not, the seller may have to install them, credit the buyer for them, or make sure the buyer is aware that they will be responsible for installing them. If your home was built after 1994 your home all ready has them, but if not, buyer beware!
With all of the new construction in Orange County, builders are coming up with ways to add water conserving features to homes, too. As these features become mainstream, they are likely going to be items that people expect or demand to have in their homes. As an example, the well-known builder KB Homes has some developments that offer water-recycling features like motion-sense kitchen faucets. If you back away from the sink, the water will stop flowing. Another feature that is becoming more common is dishwashers that will save water. They do this by reusing the water from the rinse cycle so that it can be used in the wash cycle on the next use. This technology can yield big results; they provide 30% more water efficiency. Wow!
Since water conservation is such an important issue, there are programs to entice homeowners to make changes as well. If you visit the City of Newport Beach website, there is a section on rebates that homeowners can seek if they purchase certain water conserving items. Currently, smart irrigation controllers, high efficiency nozzles, drip irrigation and rain barrels are just some of the items that are on this page.
Both Laguna Beach and Newport Beach have watering restrictions in effect as well. There are specific days and times that lawns can be watered as well as restriction on the amount allowed.
Do you have any other suggestions for conserving water in your home or in your community? Feel free to comment.
By Holly Schwartz
Holly Schwartz is a realtor with Villa Real Estate who lives in Newport Beach and has been featured on HGTV’s House Hunters. She can be reached at HSchwartz@VillaRealEstate.com.
