What to Know When Buying a Home with Propane

With many housing markets on the upswing, buyers are moving quickly to act in this soon-to-be seller’s market. Many eager home buyers are looking to purchase energy efficient, propane-powered homes. Below are some tips for buyers looking to make informed energy choices.

• MLS listings with a Seller’s Disclosure Notice often indicate if a home is powered by liquid propane gas through a neighborhood “community (captive)” or an individual tank “on property.” It’s a good idea to obtain a decisive classification to be fully-informed on subsequent decisions that may arise, including the cost rolled into the HOA fee or whether to search for a preferred service provider. Homebuyers should request a copy of the current homeowner’s most recent safety inspection and the average annual and monthly bills paying close attention to winter usage since propane use tends to be heaviest during this period. Summer months are important due to increased appliance usage for cooking, water heaters, pool heaters, dryers, and fans, among other appliances.

• Homebuyers should inquire as to which appliances run on propane, gas or electricity. Commonly used propane-powered appliances are water heaters, furnaces and stove tops; extensively used appliances that are not commonly associated with propane include swimming pools and dryers. The current homeowner’s most recent safety inspection will provide an accurate listing of propane appliances in the home, so checking that list and asking any questions that arise is always a good idea.

• Considerations for future landscaping or outdoor updates should start with identifying whether the home’s propane tank is above or below ground and locating the path of the ground line leading from the tank to the house. In the state of Texas, propane tanks purchased by a homeowner will be included in the home sale while rented or leased tanks are the property of the current service provider and can remain if the home buyer wishes. Often the current propane provider can be identified by locating the service decal on the propane tank. Previous homeowners should provide propane supplier information for tanks whether owned or leased. Ensuring that below ground tanks have cathodic protection to prevent rust and erosion is an important safety precaution. No matter the state or ownership of the current tank, home buyers have options in choosing their future propane service provider.

Source: Sharp Propane

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