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Denver launches an AI tool that pre-checks building permit applications
StartSmart flags missing items before an application goes to city staff. Staff still make the final call.
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Recalls, permits, codes and costs that affect DIY home repair. Stories marked homerepair.samcbarth.com open on that site; stories marked The Quillmark are written here.
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Little Giant recalls about 3.66 million ladders with Rapid Locks over fall hazard
The CPSC and Little Giant announced a recall of about 3.66 million ladders with Rapid Locks because they can suddenly retract if the locks are not fully engaged. Owners should stop using them and contact Little Giant for a repair kit.
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CPSC warns two sets of combination smoke and CO alarms sold online fail to alarm
The CPSC told consumers to stop using JuzhiAnn, Yfwsrecinoe and JAEHSKA alarms (model JZA-540COM) and GuardianSense/KLTseanife alarms (model YHW-542COM-R) because they fail to sound in the presence of smoke and fire. The sellers have not agreed to recalls.
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DREO recalls about 338,800 DR-HSH015 ceramic space heaters for fire risk
DREO recalled about 338,800 DR-HSH015 ceramic space heaters made from April 2025 through January 2026 because they can overheat and ignite. Stop using them and contact DREO for a free replacement.
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CPSC warns PowRyte electric pressure washers lack GFCI protection at the plug
The CPSC warned consumers to stop using PowRyte pressure washers sold on Amazon and eBay because they lack a ground-fault circuit interrupter on or near the plug, creating a shock and electrocution risk. The manufacturer has not agreed to a recall.
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Over one million attic stairway ladders recalled over breaking bolts
Louisville Ladder recalled more than one million Louisville, Featherlite, Lite and Century attic stairway ladders with gas struts because bolts can break. Owners can register for a free repair kit with replacement spreader bolts.
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New Hampshire's home electrification rebates expected to launch in fall 2026
New Hampshire's Department of Energy says its HEAR program, with rebates of up to $14,000 for heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, wiring and insulation, is expected to launch in fall 2026. Only projects started after launch will qualify.
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Harvard housing researchers project home improvement spending growth slowing through 2026
The Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity from Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies projects owner spending on improvements and maintenance growing about 2.1 percent by mid-2026 and easing to 1.6 percent by year end, reaching about $518 billion.