Home and Living News

Realtors’ survey assesses value of home improvements

Kitchen makeovers and closet upgrades got the highest scores

Orkin ranks the top cities for rat and mouse infestations

It’s a list no city wants to be on

Cleaning with bleach in your home can release harmful air pollutants

A study suggests that residue from the popular cleaning product could make breathing more difficult

Steps to take in anticipation of Hurricane Dorian

Officials are warning that the storm could cause ‘life-threatening’ flash floods in some areas of the southeast coast

Cremations now outnumber traditional burials

Cost and environmentally conscious baby boomers are driving the trend

Renovation spending projected to rise as home sales slow

A survey found that nearly half of homeowners are planning remodeling projects

FTC offers tips for hurricane season

Consumers should always prepare for the worst and beware of scams during the aftermath

Many millennials home buyers are feeling buyer’s remorse

They’re more likely than baby boomers to feel the stress of homeownership

Most consumers aren’t prepared to deal with a weather emergency, survey finds

The Weather Company is predicting a slightly more active storm season

California requires new garage door openers to be equipped with battery backup

A measure passed in the wake of deadly wildfires takes effect July 1

Researchers are looking into ways to make homes fire-resistant

Wildfires pose a growing threat to buildings and lives, but fire-resistant homes can help reduce both life and property loss

Instant-sale, ‘buy your house for cash’ operations are multiplying

But be careful, some of these offers may not be from who you think

Setting realistic goals can lead to better quality of life

Researchers suggest that attainable goals can give consumers peace of mind

Toxins from furniture and flooring found to linger in children's systems

Researchers found traces of chemicals in children’s urine and blood

Southern California city overturns law that banned people from sleeping in their cars

Living in a vehicle is illegal in most cities, but more Americans say they have no other choice

Good samaritan buys hotel rooms for Chicago’s homeless during polar vortex

The city confiscated propane tanks from dozens of homeless people camped in the cold

How to prepare for freezing cold winter temperatures

Getting your home and car ready, and bundling up, are necessary steps to take

Corrosion in lead water lines is threatening Americans’ health, report warns

What happened in Flint, Mich., is likely to happen in other cities, experts say

Utility companies preparing for a winter of outages

The latest storm has left hundreds of thousands in the cold

Preparing Thanksgiving dinner can be dangerous

Deep frying a turkey can raise your chances of a holiday mishap

The list of cities paying people to move there continues to grow

It’s not just money, though. Culture and community are more important than the chaos of a major metro

Brinks Home Security wins top customer service rating

The company excelled in four different categories

Study finds domestic violence more common than you think

Despite how widespread it is, researchers say Americans don't like to talk about it

How to stay safe after a hurricane

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wants residents to know what to do in the wake of a storm

Emergency situation apps come to the rescue during Hurricane Florence

Whether someone needs help or is in an area where there’s limited cell coverage, there’s an app for that

FEMA uses the Waffle House to determine a hurricane's intensity

The restaurant aid tracks each storm from start to finish

National Safety Council offers steps to stay safe during Hurricane Florence

Families are urged to put together an emergency supply kit and develop an emergency plan

Vermont will pay you $10,000 to live there and work remotely

The U.S. state is actively looking for remote workers to change their place of residence

Zillow getting into the home-flipping business

Zillow Instant Offers will buy and sell homes in Las Vegas and Phoenix

The cost of selling a home is on the rise

A recent analysis puts the average total at more than $18,000

Texas-based company reveals plans for 3D printing affordable homes

The company says homes could cost under $10,000 and benefit those in need

Annual remodeling survey finds small projects pay off the most

Labor costs make big jobs less practical

Tips for getting organized in the New Year

Cut through the clutter by organizing a little each day and donating non-used items

Study finds a majority of U.S. homes have multiple allergens

Here’s how you can reduce allergens in your home

Tips to save energy in your home during winter

Here’s what you can do to keep your family warm and your energy bills low this winter

Tips for keeping holiday waste down

Focusing on energy-efficiency and waste reduction can help you have a greener holiday

Preparing your home for holiday visitors

A few simple ways to get your home guest-ready

One in five renters struggle to pay the rent

Apartment List study finds increase in evictions, renters struggling to keep their homes

What you can do to prepare for Thanksgiving dinner

Planning ahead can help take the stress out of cooking on Thanksgiving day

Popular home improvement projects on a budget

Empire Today surveyed homeowners across the U.S. for 2017 trends

Why first-time homebuyers should be shopping now

Trulia report indicates an Autumn price drop that budget shoppers should keep in mind

How to prepare your home for trick-or-treaters

Follow these tips to keep kids safe this Halloween

The ZIP codes millennials are devouring

As millennials hit their prime home buying years, certain areas see a big influx

Orkin lists America's ‘rattiest’ cities

Learn how you can keep your home pest-free for the coming winter

Wait times for home renovation projects are on the rise

Professionals are plagued with growing labor shortages

Zillow plans to offer 3D tours of houses and apartments

The company says it wants to 'democratize access' to 3D home tour technology

How first-time homebuyers can protect their budget

Financial experts say it's wise to expect the unexpected

How to boost your home's appeal to sell in the fall and winter

Prospective buyers appreciate a cozy, inviting interior

How to boost your indoor air quality this Fall

Eight ways to achieve and maintain healthy air quality

Five outdoor home maintenance tasks to complete this fall

Exterior maintenance tasks to complete before summer bids its final farewell

Five household chores to tackle before fall arrives

Preventative maintainence can help save you time and money

Simple ways to give your bathroom a facelift

Quick and stylish tweaks to breathe new life into your bathroom

Quick and easy tricks for eliminating household grime

Houselogic’s top tips for fighting mold, dust, and grime

Blue paint can increase a home's selling price, study says

The shade is neutral enough to help potential buyers see your home as their future home

What to do now to prepare your home for winter

Preparing for cold weather well before it arrives can pay off later

Tips on choosing a color palette for your kitchen

Different colors can convey different moods, design experts say

Interior water leaks can be a homeowner's nightmare

And it's most likely to happen when no one is home

Federal government rethinks stance that a potent new class of herbicides is 'safe for everyone'

Farmers say their livelihoods are at risk from an agricultural chemical that is killing their crops

The top five regrets according to home sellers

A study shows what worked for sellers and what didn't

Five ways to improve indoor air quality in your home

Experts say poor air quality can lead to negative health consequences

How to make your backyard more inviting

Features that can help maximize your enjoyment of your outdoor living area

New app guides homeowners who are remodeling

Buildshop offers free tools for planning and budgeting

Remodeling your kitchen for resale

Four low-cost kitchen upgrades potential buyers will appreciate

Home improvement mistakes first-time homeowners should avoid

Indoor and outdoor projects that can lead to problems down the line

The hidden costs of homeownership

The expense isn't limited to the mortgage payment

8 clever tips to help take the stress out of cleaning

Simple tricks that can add an element of effortlessness to the task of cleaning

Decorating around black appliances

Four ways to embrace the new trend in kitchen appliances

Signs you might not be ready to buy a house

Savings, debt, and employment history are huge factors

How to cut energy costs when the mercury rises

Simple steps can keep cooling costs under control

What's included in your home purchase closing costs?

You will prepay taxes and insurance, along with third party fees

Improving your home's outdoor entertainment spaces

A pool, a great grill, and a lush lawn make backyard summers more enjoyable

Texas study finds 'green' homes are worth more

Researchers say green features can add up to $25,000 in value

Electric appliances becoming the 'new frontier' in climate change battle

California sees a new campaign for home and building owners to stop using natural gas

Why you should stage your home if you want to sell it

Home staging can boost the dollar value offered by buyers, realtors say

Solar awnings provide shade -- and a tax credit

Solar companies have jumped into the awning business

Swimming pools are great fun but be careful!

They are the single most dangerous thing you can add to your home

Home improvement projects that can boost the value of your home

A little paint, a new door, a lush lawn -- they make a big difference

Whirlpool refrigerator blamed for London fire that killed 79

Officials say the blaze began in a refrigerator-freezer made by a company Whirlpool later acquired

Cleaning and caring for your home’s deck

Tips for eradicating potential problems

Taking a picture of sentimental items could help you de-clutter

Holding onto the memory tied to an item can make getting rid of it easier, study finds

Eight ways to make your home sell faster

Trulia highlights simple steps that cost little, if anything

5 natural ways to control pests in and around your home

Consumers who want to avoid using toxic chemicals have plenty of options

Vacationing this summer? Here are a few ways to prepare your home

Arranging to have a neighbor get the mail isn't the only preparation homeowners can take

Consumers spending less money to illuminate their homes

Study finds consumers using 20 LED bulbs save $1000 over 10 years

How to shop for a new air conditioner

Consider the size of the room and the capacity of the unit

Two ways awnings can add value to your home

They improve the aesthetics while adding function

How to trim summer energy costs

Focus on air conditioning, because that's the biggest expense

Everyone wants to be a pioneer in the fight for boxed mattress dominance

Silicon Valley is taking credit for "disrupting" Big Mattress with a sales gimmick that was actually developed by an 84-year-old Tennessee welder

Tips for planning your next move

Whether you're renting a truck or hiring a pro, here's some helpful information

LG rolls out Google Home-enabled smart appliances

Consumers building a 'smart' home need to give some thought to security

Builder confidence in the housing market continues to grow

The confidence level is the second highest since the crash

What consumers need to know about identity theft

The threat is growing, so it is important to protect yourself

Why your home warranty is another important home-buying decision

These service plans may be vital when buying an existing home you know little about

Why no one is buying your home

It may not be as ready to show as you think

When spring cleaning, don't overlook your refrigerator

This kitchen appliance can become a depository of long-forgotten food

Simple, inexpensive upgrades to help sell your home

The trick is to not overspend on improvements

One key to identity theft is in your pocket or purse

Texas police say one couple swiped personal data right from consumers' unlocked cars

How to find a dog-friendly neighborhood

Trulia says if you know what to look for, it's easy to identify

The cost of moving to a larger home with an additional bedroom

An extra bedroom or bathroom could add a hefty amount to your mortgage

Three ideas to brighten up your home on a budget

You can spend a little and make a big difference

Safety tips to keep in mind during garage sale season

What consumers can do to avoid purchasing a dangerous item

Home improvements that yield the biggest ROI

Garage doors rank among top home improvements for 2017

Home selling tips for pet owners

Removing signs of pets can help a home sell faster and for more money, experts say

Flame retardants suspected in rising thyroid cancer rate

The incidence of thyroid cancer has more than tripled over the last four decades

Five ways to invest your tax refund into home improvement

Consumers can use their tax return to finance some much-needed home improvements

Spring cleaning outdoors – tips for waking up your garden

Tasks to complete now for a beautiful lawn and garden this spring and summer

Making home safer for loved ones with dementia

Tips for creating a safe home environment for people living with Alzheimer's

EPA approves drift-prone, toxic industrial weed killer on basis that all farmers will follow instruction label

Advocacy groups are suing the Trump administration for approving Enlist Duo in 34 states this year

How a home energy audit can help you save money

The Department of Energy offers tips for saving energy and lowering costs

Painting tips to help a home sell faster

Neutral interior walls and earth-toned exteriors are most desirable to buyers, experts say

What to do to protect your home from hail

Tips on preparing your home's exterior for the impact of a spring storm

Lowe's launches new VR experience to help DIYers

Holoroom How To walks users through the process of completing an unfamiliar project

What to do to prevent a dryer fire

Cleaning the lint trap isn't the only precaution to take, experts say

Man dies when garden stool collapses

The stool collapsed inward and sharp ceramic shards punctured the man's femoral artery

Simple indoor project ideas for a cold winter weekend

When winter weather forces you indoors, make the most of it by enhancing your home

How to prepare your home for the spring selling season

What you can do now to make a quick sale come spring

Australian boxing fans in trouble for Facebook livestreaming

Just because it's possible to livestream copyrighted video doesn't make it legal

Easy ways to declutter your home

Use these clutter-busting tips to help you get organized

Why it's so hard to buy a house

Saving for a down payment is a top concern among first time home buyers, survey finds

Trump cuts mortgage aid to home buyers

Surprise action raises questions about other housing assistance programs

New online site lets buyers browse house listings by school district

Cruvita's school ranking system can help families find a home in a good school district

Millennials have modest goals for homeownership, survey finds

First-time Millennial homeowners don't want to break the bank to achieve their dreams

See inside LG's new fridge without opening the door

Also, Alexa will come up with recipes and play tunes

How to save on your electric bill if you're traveling for the holidays

Consumers should be sure to adjust their thermostats and unplug devices before traveling

Do your smoke detectors need to be replaced? Here's how to tell

FEMA reminds consumers to check the date on their smoke alarms

How to reduce your risk of injury from yard work

Use these techniques while raking, mowing, or using other lawn equipment

Northeastern U.S. faces more frequent and more powerful hurricanes, study warns

British scientists studied weather patterns dating back 450 years

Exploding turkeys a seasonal hazard

Frozen turkeys and hot oil don't mix very well

Traveling this holiday season? Here's what to do to protect your home

Addressing your home's vulnerabilities can keep damage from occurring while you're away

What to do before the holidays to make sure your home is ready for visitors

Are your home's appliances ready to work overtime?

Want to know if someone died in your house? This website can help you find out

DiedInHouse.com can fill you in on every grim detail of your home's history

More package thefts predicted for this holiday season

'Porch pirates' become a bigger problem each year

Productive ways to use your extra hour on November 6

Five simple, protective measures that can boost your safety in one hour

Skin patch shows promise in treating children's peanut allergies

The wearable 'Viaskin' patch delivers peanut protein into the skin

How to avoid tricks this Halloween with smart home security features

Use of security cameras and automatic light controls can help keep your home safe

Three low-cost home security devices

Each can help you keep an eye on your home and prevent intruders

Modsy lets you see furniture in your home before you buy it

Design experts use your style to create a 3D rendering of what your home could look like

Hone your home improvement skills with DIYZ

Doing it yourself isn't always easy, but this new app may change that

See how your room would look painted in a different color with Prestige ColorPic

Take a photo, choose a color, and the app will show you the end result

Facebook rolls out Marketplace, its answer to Craigslist

Since Facebook requires real names, Marketplace may reduce the creep factor of online buying and selling

U.S. consumers preparing for Hurricane Matthew

Here's what you need to do to be ready

The first responder in a natural disaster is you

Earthquake swarms, looming hurricanes ... it's time to get ready

Five trends that have shaped kitchen design in 2016

Ideas for turning your kitchen into a clean, efficient, and fresh-looking space

Feds warn of safety issues with Samsung washing machines

Top-loading, high-efficiency machines can shake themselves to pieces during the spin cycle

Getting your garden ready for fall

Cool weather plants that can keep the color in your garden

Samsung washers blamed in series of fires

Some of the machines have been recalled in Australia, but not here

What to do this fall to get your home ready for winter

Eight exterior elements to address before winter's imminent arrival

Hurricane forecast up slightly for this year

Homeowners along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts should prepare for another season

Bancorp South to pay $7 million to redlining victims

Minority mortgage applicants paid higher interest rates than whites

Which garden hoses contain the highest levels of toxic chemicals?

Researchers examined 32 hoses from six different retailers

Lumber Liquidators to halt sales of Chinese-made laminate flooring

Affected consumers may request a free test kit

Three outdoor patio trends to embrace

Concrete accents, teak furniture, and bright colors are summer 2016's stand-out trends

Alcohol-related posts, ads influence social media users, study finds

Researchers caution that alcohol-related content could negatively affect younger users

Allstate plans big car insurance rate hike in Georgia

The increase may be as high as 58 percent for some consumers, state warns

Installing a metal roof qualifies homeowners for a $500 tax credit

Metal roofing is a smart investment that can pay off big in the long run

Lumber Liquidators resolves California probe

The investigation found no wrongdoing on the part of the company

iRobot introduces a tiny, floor-cleaning robot that loves small spaces

At $199, the Braava Jet is more affordable than the Roomba and perfect for hard surfaces

Best refrigerators for style and quality

Five refrigerators named top picks by online experts

Cost of living on the decline in February

Lower energy prices were a major factor

Solar panel telemarketers made one million illegal calls, suit alleges

The goal was to get consumers to agree to talk to a solar panel installer

Health agency erred in reporting Lumber Liquidators flooring risk

Cancer risk from formaldehyde exposure higher than first estimated

ADT Security to merge with Protection 1

Combined company will retain the ADT brand

CDC: Formaldehyde levels in Lumber Liquidator products pose a low risk of cancer

However, there are steps that consumers can take to reduce exposure

Lumber Liquidators fined $13 million for illegal floor imports

The wood came from areas inhabited by rare tigers and lemurs

Can you create a reclaimed wood accent wall in under an hour?

With Artis Wall, homeowners can put up a backsplash or accent wall quickly and easily

Hyatt Hotels discloses data breach

But company provides little other information

What will kitchens of the future look like?

Smart appliances and the interconnectivity they offer will provide new opportunities

Online interior design services: are they right for you?

A less expensive alternative to the on-site designer experience

Lumber Liquidators adopts new safety standards for vinyl flooring

The policy is aimed to weed out chemicals found in reprocessed plastic

Lumber Liquidators to settle federal charges

But settlement is unrelated to alleged dangerous levels of formaldehyde

Microwaves: a fire hazard in your kitchen

They're handy but they're also prone to unexplained fires

Preparing for disaster on a tight budget

Disaster prep is easy if you have lots of money. Here's some advice in case you don't

New USPS program lets you see your junk mail before you get it

“Real Mail Notification” is free to end users. But will marketers think it's worth paying for?

Leaking water heaters can cause massive damage

A small appliance can cause big damage

University engineers develop way to tornado-proof any home

Lightweight panels are used to construct a "safe room" in any dwelling

Sellers beware: eBay will give your identifying information to anyone who bids on your auctions

And if that information is used for nefarious purposes, too bad for you

Air conditioner maintenance tips

Keeping surfaces clean and changing filters regularly can prevent a nasty surprise on a hot summer day

Trimming your gardening time

Use these tips to create a beautiful garden for a fraction of the effort

Are Samsung washing machines prone to cause flooding?

A recent class-action filing plus numerous consumer complaints suggest maybe they are

Feds: Black & Decker Spacemaker coffee pot hazard wasn't reported promptly

Dozens of consumes were burned when the coffee pot handle broke, suit charges

What kind of floor is best for your pet?

Vinyl may be the best solution for most pets

Homeowners' association threatens to sue residents over wheelchair ramp

Because learning from someone else's mistake is just too easy

California bill requiring HOAS to allow fake grass moves one step closer into law

Assembly Bill 349 passed yesterday by a vote of 69-2; now goes before state Senate

Tennessee HOA pays $156,000 to settle disability-discrimination lawsuit

Another stellar example of homeowners' associations at work

Gardening mistakes can be expensive

The time, money and knee pain add up so it's important to get it right

Lumber Liquidators pulls China flooring; Lowe's pulls Tecsun products

The actions come amid growing concerns about formaldehyde in laminate flooring

California HOA still requires lawns in the middle of a drought

What happens when state water-conservation laws run afoul of HOA lawn mandates?

Spring fix-up can be hazardous to your health

Emergency rooms are packed on weekends with victims of home handyman mishaps

Garage door remotes tops on a burglar's list

Once in your garage, getting into your house is easy

Carbon monoxide from electrical generator kills family of 8

Gas-powered devices should never be run inside a building

Homeowners' association pays $20,000 to settle resident's wheelchair-ramp dispute

May you put a wheelchair ramp on your own home? The HOA said no; the law thought otherwise

Briggs and Stratton engines can exhaust their users' patience

Small gas engines are often a recipe for frustration

Lumber Liquidators denies formaldehyde allegations

"60 Minutes" report said some products had high levels of the naturally-occurring chemical

Front-loader or top-loader -- which is better?

Early front-loaders caused a lot of problems but have gotten better with time

Things to consider when buying a lawn mower

There are more options than there used to be

Appliances really don't last as long as they used to

It's not just your imagination; study confirms shorter lifespan

Are you ignoring your septic tank?

They're very expensive to replace, so regular maintenance is essential

Here's a list of ways around Keurig 2.0 machine restrictions

Your old pods and K-cups won't work with new Keurig machines — unless you use one of these workarounds

Can fast food stores really pay their people $15 an hour?

Massachusetts researchers say they can without impacting jobs or profits

How to deal with a hostile boss

Believe it or not, researchers say you should be hostile right back

What happens when the pipes freeze

It could turn into The Nightmare on Your Street

Homeowners' association sues residents for parking their pickup in their driveway

This useful service funded by the residents' own HOA fees

Fireplaces are cozy but toxic

Roasting chestnuts on an open fire? Not a good idea

Too much stuff? The self-storage industry keeps on growing

First it costs money to buy stuff, then it costs money to store it ....

50 shades of gray for 2015

Gray might seem drab but maybe "understated" is a better term

Do seeds have an expiration date?

Seeds' longevity depends partly on how they're stored

Detergent manufacturers wish you'd waste more detergent

Efficient machines and savvy consumers depress detergent companies' bottom lines

Opossum may drive your dog to distraction but they're great for your garden

The little marsupials eat snakes, ticks, slugs and bugs of all kinds

The blow-by-blow guide to leaf blowers

They're noisy but they get the job done

Residential elevators -- a convenience but also a hazard

Regulations for ensuring the safety of home elevators are lax to non-existent in many places

Antibacterial soap makers lather up to fight regulations

FDA says there's no evidence they are more effective than plain soap and water

Air-conditioning: necessity or expensive luxury?

Can't say, really; the correct answer is “It depends”

Gas grills are feeling a little rusty after the long winter

Char-Broil grills not getting rave reviews from backyard chefs

Smoke alarms are getting longer-lived batteries

The devices are life-savers, but not when the battery is dead

Third-party energy providers can be a poor choice

Illinois utility board warns residents of "rip-offs"

From religious discrimination to pointless paint jobs: it's HOA roundup time

More reasons to stay away from homeowners' associations

Deregulated energy providers: are they a good deal?

Customers of Ambit Energy decry unexpected price jumps

Honda, Toro lead Consumer Reports' lawn mower tests

If last year's mower sat outside all winter, it may be time for a new one

Who pays when a power surge ruins your appliances?

In most cases, you do. Surge suppressors are essential.

Study finds Facebook feelings are contagious, especially good ones

It's among the few major studies of online emotional contagion

Cold winter focuses attention on new 'energy crisis'

Researchers find large part of population spends too much on energy

Home inspectors: who are they working for?

Author claims it's Realtors who are running the show

Unlicensed movers caught in sting operation

Many advertised on Craigslist, Angie's List and other online venues

Home electrical generators: Which kind is right for you?

The major choice comes down to: portable or stationary

HOA laws make life easy for burglars

Preventing home invasion might lower a home’s value, according to HOA board

Six steps to preventing identity theft of the deceased

Identity thieves prefer the dead to the living

Consumer Reports picks the best LED bulbs

The old incandescent bulbs will fade away after January 1

Holiday lights and parked cars: HOA battles of the week

A string of Christmas lights is a dangerous threat in some suburbs

Choosing a washer: front load or top load?

There are major differences in cost, efficiency and performance

Consumers: KitchenAid dishwashers keep washing out

No recalls, but our readers think there should be

Buying into an HOA leads to buyer's remorse

Many readers empathized with our recent "HOA horrors" story

Honoring the best of the worst: the greatest-hits list for bad HOAs

We didn't invent any of these crazy stories. We really wish we had

Homeowners associations: government minus the checks and balances

Abandon hope all ye who enter a community controlled by an HOA

New refrigerators have more features and doors

Manufacturers continue to tinker with the French door design

Finally, a wifi-connected smoke alarm

One step closer to the computerized home of the future

Washout reviews for Whirlpool Cabrio washers and dryers

Readers complain of repairs costing more than the purchase price

ADT Security loves customers too much to let them leave

Numerous readers complain contracts impossible to cancel

"Flushable" wipes fouling up the waterworks

Just because something says it's "flushable" doesn't mean it won't cause problems

Home video cameras weren't secure, FTC charges

It's the first case to be brought against Internet-connected everyday devices

Samsung, LG, Sub-Zero do well in J.D. Power appliance ratings

But not all consumers have a good experience with the Power picks

Agitator-free LG, Kenmore washers shaking up consumers

The machines vibrate, smell moldy and don't work very well, customers complain

Today's inkjet printers give new meaning to 'disappearing ink'

If you seem to run out of ink too quickly, your printer may be wasting it

How to deal with a horrible neighbor

Things to do, things not to do and how long to cool down before you do anything

How to get the most out of your air conditioner this summer

According to the experts, it's all about preventive maintenance

Your old fridge may be worth more than you think

Utilities offer rebates if you update your appliances

Toasters can be fire hazards

Consumers report timers don't shut off, causing the toaster to overheat

Microwaves can be a fire hazard

Reports persist of these appliances bursting into flames

Replacing your home's heat pump

These appliances have a lifespan as short as 10 years

Web advertisers attack Mozilla for protecting consumers' privacy

Publisher of the Firefox browser "undermining American small business," ad organization huffs

When is it time to replace your roof?

Here are some tell-tale signs to look for

Things that can go wrong with self-storage units

Read the contract carefully and get adequate insurance

When shopping for a washing machine, cheaper may be better

Consumers tend to report fewer problems with old-fashioned top-loaders

Things to remember when using the microwave

Sure it's been around for decades, but there still a few rules to follow

Liberty Mutual loses aftermarket parts dispute with West Virginia

Court orders insurer to follow West Virginia law

Samsung, LG "dumped" low-priced washing machines in U.S., Commerce Department finds

Whirlpool said the dumping was harming the U.S. washing machine industry

Danger: popping a Champagne cork is no joke

A flying cork moves with enough force to cause significant eye damage

10 ways to lower your holiday electric bills

If you're willing to give it some thought and planning, you can save money

New security system uses smartphone to control doors and gates

Creates the impression you are home even when you aren't

Ashley Furniture isn't making consumers all that comfy

Readers complain of damaged goods, poor customer service, warranty problems

Pyrex dispute explodes into federal court

The glassware's manufacturer sues trade journal over article about shattering glassware

Black & Decker Coffee Makers Brew Up a Lot of Problems for Consumers

A coffee maker might make a good holiday gift. Then again ...

The Orgreenic Frying Pan: Does It Really Do That?

The company says you'll never need oil again, and no foods will ever stick

The Morning After: Homeowners Insurance Questions

Photograph everything, make small repairs now to prevent further damage

What Does it Take to Buy a House?

Fewer people can take advantage of low rates and prices

Bonded Leather Sofas vs. Genuine Leather - What's the Difference?

"Bonded" sounds impressive but the reality doesn't always match the first impression

Power4Home: Is Building A Home Solar Power System This Easy?

The "kit" consists mostly of books and DVDs. You must still buy and install the equipment.

Reports Of Microwave Oven Fires Persist

Most recent reports center on Emerson models

A Look at LG's Newest Washer and Dryer Combination

They look futuristic and have lots of features, but check the consumer reviews first

Wall Street Loves Facebook, But Do Users?

Social networking site draws a lot of complaints, which may spell trouble in the future

Beware Black Mold Hype

Mold industry leader says term is used to scare consumers

Why Both Spouses' Names Should Be on the Mortgage

If they're not and one dies, there could be complications

Riddex Plus Pest Repeller -- The 21st Century Bug Zapper?

Not just infomercials but Google, Amazon, Walmart, Walgreens and other reputable outlets are selling a supposed pest-killing nightlight

Consumers Baffled by Facebook 'Friends Request' Policy

When users respond to Facebook suggestions, they get blocked

Cuisinart Coffeemaker Meltdowns Leave Consumers Steaming

Wiring overheats and burns without warning, consumers complain

Samsung, Sub-Zero, Miele Top J.D. Power Study

More consumers researching appliances online before visiting the store, study finds

Ohio Brings Criminal Charges Against Tree Trimmers

State is pursuing more criminal charges in consumer cases

Repairing A Leaky Bunn Coffeemaker

Consumer-produced video suggests an easy fix

Homeowners Facing Big Premium Increases

Home values may be down but replacement costs are rising rapidly

Report Card Grades States On Reporting Outbreaks of FoodborneIllness

Center for Science in the Public Interest awards ‘A’s to seven states, while 14 get ‘F’s

Did You Know You Could Still Become a Landowner for Free?

You just need some of that old-fashioned pioneer spirit

Menu Labeling Didn't Change Behavior, Researchers Say

New Seattle area law makes no difference in eating habits

Women With PCOS Have Higher BPA Levels

Women with the ovarian dysfunction urged to avoid food and drinks from plastic containers

Another Foreclosure 'Rescuer' Shut Down In North Carolina

12th such case in five years

Ringing In the New Year Could Be Bad for Your Health

Dangers abound for pedestrians, immune systems and waistlines around the country

Winterizing Your Home Can Avoid Costly Damage

Don't put off getting your home ready for cold weather

Floridians Cautioned On Hurricane Window Film

Product doesn't live up to claims, attorney general says

Suit: LG Refrigerator Lights Won't Turn Off

Leads to hot food, melted plastic, fire hazard

Rena Ware Agrees to Refund More Than $600,000 to California Consumers

Company claimed its cookware cured diabetes and heart disease

Report Warns Against Over-Use of Household Disinfectants

'Too clean' may be as hazardous as 'not clean enough'

Foreclosures Continue To Mount

Homeowners get the run-around when they seek mortgage modifications

New Jersey Reaches Settlement With Samsung Over Service

Probe followed consumer complaints

Haier America To Pay More Than $500,000 Civil Penalty

Company recalled 150,000 fans due to fire hazard

Consumers Fret about Credit Cards, Excess Poundage, 'Free' Money

Appliances, furnishings also make the Top Ten list in June

California Seeks To Register Foreclosure "Consultants"

Attorney General wants database to protect against scam artists

One Of Five U.S. Mortgages Under Water

Over 8 million homes had negative equity in December

Chinese Drywall a Threat to Homeowners?

Drywall emits harmful sulfuric odors, homeowner lawsuits charge

Is It Safe to Buy a House?

Foreclosures and sinking home prices may signal a new era for buyers

Housing 2009 Forecasts Mixed, But Mostly Grim

Buyers will fare better than owners or sellers in months to come

'Hope for Homeowners' Program Offers Faster Relief than Wall Street Bailout

Rescue plan gives Uncle Sam an equity stake in troubled mortgages

Mortgagees Who Live In Home Less Likely To Default

Highest losses from housing slump come from speculators

New Orleans: Three Years Later

A Katrina refugee pays a return visit

Bush Signs Housing Bailout Into Law

Measure criticized for not helping enough homeowners

Feds To 'Backstop' Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac

Government to expand credit line to the big lenders

Lawmakers Propose Bill To Prevent 'Stove Tipping'

CPSC has known of tip-over hazard for 20 years

Tax Scams Proliferate In April

Taxpayer advocate wants improvement; Agency promises more action

'House Stealing' Scam Combines Identity Theft, Mortgage Fraud

Thieves steal and sell your house, leaving you stuck with the mortgage

States Gear Up to Fight Foreclosure Rescue Scams

'Rescue' schemes often make matters worse for troubled homeowners

Feds Offer Vouchers to Cover TV Conversion Cost

Transition to digital TV catches many consumers by surprise

Winter Months Increase Radon Danger

Odorless gas is second-leading cause of lung cancer

Report: Some Home Prices Could Fall 30 Percent

Prices likely to sink through at least 2009

Consumer, Poverty Groups Oppose Predatory Mortgage Bill

Measure leaves homeowners worse off, they charge

New York Sues WaMu and its Appraisers

Companies conspired to inflate appraisals, suit charges

Public Citizen: Movers Database Missing Crucial Information

Consumers still won't know which companies may hold their belongings hostage

Buying a Home in Foreclosure: What You Need to Know

Hard Times, Hard Choices

Seniors Bear Brunt Of Predatory Lending

Seniors are the ones losing their homes, study finds

FHA Loan Makes Comeback as Sub-Primes Sink

FHA loans fell out of favor in recent years, overshadowed by more exotic loans

Mortgage Crisis? Act Now to Avoid Foreclosure

Steps You Can Take to Avoid Losing Your Home and Ruining Your Credit

KB Home Executives Quit Over Stock Options Probe

KB Home faces yet another scandal

Foreclosures on the Rise

American Dream Becomes the Nightmare on Elm Street

Craftmatic Settles WV Fraud Charges

State responds to large number of consumer complaints

Realtors Thwart Internet-Based Home Sales

GE Ice Dispensers Serve Up More Than Ice

Consumers Get Plastic, Metal in Their Drinks

Portable Generators Can Kill

Don't put yours in the basement!

ChoicePoint-FBI Deal Raises New Privacy Questions

Last month, the FBI awarded a five-year, $12 million contract for ChoicePoint to improve the agency's software systems for investigation and analysis.

FTC: Businesses Need To Better Protect Social Security Numbers

How much access should businesses have to consumers' Social Security numbers?

Coming Soon: No-Mow Grass

Bad News for John Deere

Mulch From Hurricane Zone Could Carry a Nasty Surprise

Homeowners buying mulch to put around shrubs and foundations should make sure they know where the wood originated

Ohio Sues Primax Windows for Consumer Violations

The state of Ohio is suing a window replacement company and its owner for shoddy work

2006 Hurricane Forecast: More and Bigger

Essential Gear: A Sharp Ax

Pellet-Burning Stove Owners Have a Problem: No Pellets

The stoves are great, but where are the pellets?

KitchenAid, Samsung Rank Highest in Home Appliance Study

KitchenAid ranks highest in both the dishwasher and range/cooktop/oven segments

Air Cleaners of Doubtful Value

Consumer ReportsFinds Even the Best Purifiers Do Little

Mortgage Bankers Fret About "Creative" Loans

They're the ones making the loans, of course, but ...

KB Home Customers Find FTC Penalties Inadequate

Giant LA Builder Has Long History of Ignoring FTC Settlements

Ameriquest Faces Blizzard of Suits and $325 Million Settlement with States

30-State Task Force Alleges Deceptive Sales Practices

Ohio Settles With Craftmatic For $425,000

The company agreed to reimburse consumers $200,000

They Sure Don't Make Things Like They Used To

A Short Primer on Appliances

High Foreclosure Rates the Dark Side of a Hot Real-Estate Market

Whether there is a housing "bubble" is becoming as popular a topic of conversation as how much the house down the block sold for

Massachusetts Sues Home Improvement Contractor

Consumers paid but no work was done

New York Takes On Predatory Real Estate Scams

State targets foreclosure rescue scams

Consumer Reports Tests Mattresses, Results Inconclusive

Pennsylvania Charges Home Improvement Fraud

Took the money but did no work

Ionizing Air Cleaners Can Cause Problems

Some can create hazardous ozone levels

Storm Victims Can Turn to FEMA Grants, SBA Loans

Feds make $2 billion available for hurricane relief in Virginia, Florida

Don't Mess with Texas Contractors

Texas law does very little to hold contractors accountable

Arizona Sues Kirby Vacuum Distributors

Salesmen used deceptive methods, suit charges

How New is Your New Mattress?

Beware the Mattress Mafia

Appeals Court Decision Protects Right to Air Gripes Online

Homebuilder had tried to stifle a critic

New York Seeks Contempt Order Against Jennifer Convertibles

Motion seeks to end the company's allegedly fraudulent, illegal and deceptive business practices

Class Action Suit Names Home Depot, Lowe's, Monogram Credit Card Bank

Class Actions Name Home Depot, Lowe's, Monogram Bank

A Statement from Hy Cite Corporation, Royal Prestige Cookware

Dramatic Increase in Fires Caused by Candles

There has been a dramatic increase in fires caused by candles.

Food Shelf Life Recs

Food Shelf Life Recs

Renting A House or Apartment - The Move-In Checklist

Renting A House or Apartment

TruGreen Chemlawn - What To Do

Hey Jim! - Questions about Driveways for a Home Improvement Contractor