My plumbing tips to the homeowner:

1. Know where the main water shut off is located. Test to make sure it works properly, some old valves don't seal and should be replaced.
2. Make sure all shutoffs (kitchen sink, bath sink, and toilets) are working properly.
3. Locate all sewer cleanouts and make sure they can be opened and closed if needed.
4. All outside faucets should have shutoffs with draindowns. Outside faucets should be left open in winter after the valve has been shut off and drained down.
5. Washing machine valves should be on/off valves so it can be turned off if your on vacation. Braided hoses are recommended.
6. When burying water pipes outside, find out what the freeze depth is in your area (contact your city/town DPW) and bury the pipes below that level.
7. Never use toilet bowl cleaners in the tank, it can corrode rubber gaskets and cause leaks.
8. Know where your on/off switches are for your boiler or furnace is located.
9. Know where your main shut off for natural gas or propane is located.
10. Carbon monoxide detectors are strongly recommended. In basement and living spaces especially outside the bedrooms.