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What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the structure, systems and components of a home by experienced, objective professional home inspectors. Homebuyers now entering the Louisiana marketplace view home inspections as a way to gain valuable information about the biggest purchase of their lifetime. It helps them to determine whether there are any major defects or system inadequacies at the time of purchase and will educate them about the construction, operation and maintenance of the home. 

In most cases, home inspections are performed after the seller has accepted a sales contract, conditional upon a satisfactory home inspection. The home inspection can usually be scheduled within 24 hours. The homebuyer is encouraged to attend the home inspection and follow the home inspector, so that he/she can see first hand the workings of the home, ask questions about any problems or defects that may be discovered or discuss potential desired changes or improvements.

The home inspector's service to the purchaser is primarily one of education. The goal of home inspectors is to provide the purchaser with a better understanding of the physical condition of the home and what repairs or improvements may be needed. In many cases the information obtained from the inspection can save the homebuyer hundreds or thousands of dollars. After the inspection is completed, a written report is prepared for the homebuyer, documenting the results of the inspection. 

The home inspection is not a pass or fail test; it should not be confused with an appraisal to determine property value, a municipal code inspection, an environmental audit, or a homeowner's warranty. 

Buyers seriously considering a real estate purchase gain an exacting overview of the property and its condition before closing. This aids in formulating an offer, negotiating price, or finalizing the purchase contract

By having a pre-purchase inspection done, the buyer is knowledgeable about both negative and positive aspects of the property so there are no unpleasant surprises later. Property maintenance needs are also made known in advance.

Sellers gain valuable insight from the building inspection that helps them focus on necessary repairs and improvements. By completing these tasks before putting the property on the market, the seller has the advantage of top market price potential. And the peace of mind knowing there will be no hidden flaws or necessary repairs required at the point of sale.

A complete home inspection should cover all of the major systems of a house, including structure, exterior, roofing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing and interior. All inspections meet the Standards of Practice of the Louisiana State Board of Home Inspectors. Christopher Nolen And Associates, LLC inspections exceed the LSBHI Standards of Practice.

A Christopher Nolen And Associates, LLC home inspection includes a thorough visual examination of the house from top to bottom with a detailed report. During the inspection the following systems and components will be looked at closely:

• Roof: Roof coverings, flashings, roof drainage systems, skylights, chimneys, plumbing vents and ventilation.
• Exterior/Site: Exterior walls, siding, trim, windows, doors, porches, patios, decks, steps, stairs, garages, sidewalks, driveways and grading.
• Attics: Framing, sheathing, insulation and ventilation.
• Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, countertops, cabinets, stairs and fireplaces.
• Plumbing: Water distribution piping and valves, gas distribution piping and valves, sinks, toilets, tubs, showers and water heaters.
• Electrical: Service entrance wires, main electrical panels, auxiliary electrical panels, distribution branch wiring, outlets, switches, lighting fixtures, and ceiling fans.
• Heating/Cooling: Heating systems, cooling systems, house fans,  and air filters/cleaners.
• Structure: Foundations, basements and crawlspaces

At the end of the inspection, all findings are recorded on a comprehensive checklist report that is written specifically for your home and usually delivered within 24 hours. The report is narrative in nature so that you can read, in plain English, the results of the home inspection. Listed in the report are details regarding the concern at hand. We want you to understand the concern of the home, as well as the purpose of the item in which we are concerned with. We also supply a copy of the LSBHI standards of practice with every inspection and follow this accordingly. You are forever my client, and I am available to answer your questions or concerns anytime.