When your washer springs a leak, do you know where the water shut-off is? When your teenage daughters have overloaded a bathroom outlet, do you know where your electrical panel is to flip the breaker switch? When you're thinking of building a new fence, do you know your property line so you don't get into a kerfuffle with a neighbor?

With some basic knowledge of your home, you'll be confident in answering these questions, and more.

Below you'll find a list of things every homeowner should know the location and operation of for safety, maintenance, and peace of mind.

Every home will have at least one main electrical panel which controls all the electricity entering your home. It is generally somewhere off the beaten path: in a closet, basement, garage, etc. In some instances, it may be outside — this is generally the case with newer or remodeled homes in dry environs (we've had outdoor panels here in Colorado). If you're having trouble, consult your original home inspection, or call the electrical company.