Exterior System

Our inspection of the exterior of the structure is more than just a look at the home itself.  We will also make an effort to inspect sidewalks leading to entry doors of the structure, driveways, and site grading to name a few.  The condition of the items surrounding the structure is important information for you as the client. 

The exterior components of the structure are important in that they serve two main functions.  One function (the more important one) is that the exterior components protect the interior from water intrusion and the second function is for general look and appeal.

A good practice is to get a termite inspection prior to closing. Your home inspector is not a licensed termite or other wood destroying insect inspector and this report should not be considered as such.

Electrical System

The electrical system in a home is one of the most important systems in a home. It aids in our creature comforts and requires much respect. According to the Rockefeller Foundation, in 2017, an estimated 16% of the world's population have little to no electricity access!

We work to inspect the electrical components which are readily accessible and visible. Some examples of our inspection process includes testing all accessible receptacles, removing the dead front cover from the electrical panel and sub panels, and checking for proper safety such as GFCI in wet locations just to name a few.

Interior System

The inspection on the interior of the home involves opening accessible windows, inspecting floor covers for damage, opening cabinets and closing doors to name a few. The main purpose of the interior inspection is to ensure the proper function of many of the items you will come in contact with on a daily basis. Some that you wouldn’t even think about unless something were wrong with it.

Plumbing System

The plumbing system consists of the water supply, the drain, vent system, waste system, plumbing fixtures (such as faucets), and plumbing appliances (such as dishwashers). We do not scope clean outs, or scope any other venting or drainage system within the home.  If you would like a technically exhaustive report on the plumbing system of a home, we recommend further evaluation by a licensed plumber.

Structural System

The structural components of a home serve an important function to the overall integrity and longevity of the home. The structure of a home protects from more than just gravity, but from natural elements such as wind, water, and earthquakes, all of which try to move the home in some form or fashion.  Some items that are included as part of the structural system are components like the foundation, walls, roofing structure and ceiling that are visible at the time of inspection.

Heating & Cooling Systems

How could we live without air conditioning and heating! We certainly want this system working properly. We have a series of checks that only test the heating & cooling system at the time of inspection. We inspect to ensure the systems are working at the time of inspection and that proper components are installed for safety and function.

Roofing System

The exterior portion of the roof on any structure is an important system for protecting the interior against the elements of nature.  The roofing system is made up of several components, many of which are hidden.  We do mount roofs under a certain pitch, that are clean of debris and under one story. All two story roofs are observed from the ground for safety purposes.

It’s important to note that we do not engage in water testing to imitate rain or natural weather occurrences. Because of this, most leaks are not visible at the time of inspection, only potential evidence of a leak. Even if evidence is available, the access in the attic could be limited to see this evidence.  We do not comment on the expected remaining life of a roof system and for your peace of mind we always recommend a roofing system be inspected by a licensed roofing contract for further evaluation.

Insulation & Ventilation System

We inspect the insulation in unfinished spaces where visible and ensure the attic has proper venting. We do not disturb anything in an attempt to reveal these products in the home. We also observe the ventilation of attics and foundation areas, kitchen, bathroom, and laundry venting systems. We also let you know if there is an absence of insulation in unfinished space at conditioned surfaces.

Appliance System

We test the built-in Kitchen appliances in the home. These are items that are permanently installed such as the dishwasher, range, cook top or oven, trash compactors, garbage disposal, range hood, or permanently installed microwave oven. This doesn’t include things like clocks, self-cleaning oven functions, timers, thermostats, refrigeration units or central vacuum systems.

Not Included

There are components that are not included in the base rate of your inspection such as additional detached garages/carports but can be added as an add-on item for an additional cost. Other items include low voltage, swimming pools, septic tanks, water wells, fences, and sprinkler systems just to name a few. To see a full list of exclusions view our standards of practice found here: State of Louisiana Standards of Practice