8 Ways to Keep Local Budget Cuts From Hurting Your House

Even before gridlock in Washington sent the global economy into yet another tailspin, towns and cities across the country were facing grim budget cuts. Everything from tree trimming to firefighting has been affected, and homeowners are the ones who lose out in the end.

But don't worry. At This Old House, we know how to keep your home working just fine, even if your hometown isn't. Here’s a look at nine ways local budget cuts may affect your house—and what you can do about it.