Q. We’re in the middle of a dispute about how our house was repaired and what to do to fix the foundation. more

Q. While renovating our kitchen, the contractor found termites and rot in sills and studs, but no active infestation. He replaced the wall up to solid lathe and studs . . . more

Q. We’re trying to decide whether to put in a whole house generator or, as our electrician friend suggested, just a portable that gives enough power when we need it. more

Q. We’ve been told that we’ll need sprinklers all over our house because we’re doing a major renovation, including lifting half our split level . . . more

Q. We must run a dehumidifier constantly in our basement from about June through October, depending on the humidity and temperature. This necessitates emptying the pail sometimes twice a day. more

Q. What can I avoid in doing my newly purchased home renovation? You often write about what goes wrong . . . more

Q. I have a real dilemma. My garage and house were destroyed in Sandy. This is my first home. I repaired it right away . . . more

As the holidays approach and we give thanks for all we have, I wanted to thank readers, and the Heralds, for the first 25 years of this column. more

Q. I watched the water come in and then drain out, and have gone through caseworkers, construction managers, insurance adjusters … never thought I’d have to be such an advocate for myself and my family. more

Q. We consider ourselves smart consumers and really check out everything before making a final decision, but faced with construction, we’re trying to understand what things should be our responsibility and which should be provided by our contractor . . . more