3 Things Inspectors Check In a Home Inspection

By Darren James

Darren James is a highly accomplished real estate professional and the founder of one of Baton Rouge’s premier real estate firms. With over 20 years of experience in selling and marketing real estate.

I had this conversation with a client the other day, and it got me thinking about how many people might be confused about what actually happens during a home inspection. They know it’s part of the process when selling or buying a house, but what exactly are home inspectors looking for?

Inspectors follow a standard checklist, and if you’re preparing to sell your home, it helps to know what they focus on. This way, you can address any issues ahead of time instead of rushing at the last minute. I like to break it down into the three S’s: Structure, Safety, and Systems.

1. Structure. The first thing inspectors check is the structure of your property. They want to make sure your home is sound and built to last. This means looking for cracks in the foundation or slab, checking if the walls and roof are stable, and ensuring there’s no major damage, like a sinkhole or poor construction. If your home has visible cracks or signs of settling, check those before the inspection. A solid structure gives buyers confidence, and it can prevent costly surprises later.

2. Safety. Inspectors are looking for anything that could harm the people living in your home. Here are some key safety concerns they check:

• Mold and water intrusion. Mold can be a health hazard, and water seeping into the home can cause damage. Inspectors will look for signs of leaks or dampness, especially in basements, bathrooms, or near windows.

• Pest problems. High flower beds or debris piled against the house can invite termites and other pests. Keep those areas clear and trimmed to avoid issues.

• Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. In many states, like Louisiana, it’s the law to have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Since January 1, 2023, Louisiana has required both in all dwellings. Make sure these are installed and working before the inspection.

• Electrical and fire hazards. Inspectors check for faulty wiring, exposed outlets, or anything that could spark a fire. They also test GFCI outlets (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters). These are the outlets with reset buttons, usually found near water sources like sinks or in bathrooms.

GFCIs are critical because they prevent electrical shocks or fires if water gets into the outlet. Make sure all GFCIs are functioning, including those outside your home, which should have insulated covers to protect them from the weather.

3. Systems. Inspectors dive into the systems that keep your home comfortable and functional. These include:

• Heating and air conditioning. Is your HVAC system cooling and heating properly? Inspectors will test it to ensure it’s in good shape. If it’s noisy or struggling, consider having it serviced beforehand.

• Plumbing. Leaky faucets, slow drains, or dripping pipes can raise red flags. Fix minor plumbing issues before the inspection to show buyers your home is well-maintained.

• Electrical Systems. Beyond GFCIs, inspectors check all outlets, switches, and the electrical panel to ensure everything is up to code and working correctly.

Understanding the inspection process is a big step toward success when selling your home. Inspectors focus on the three Ss: structure, safety, and systems, and preparing for them can make all the difference.

If you have questions or need help getting your home ready, I’m here for you. Reach me at (225) 304-6363 or darren@agent225.com. You can also visit Agent225.com to learn more about how we can get your home sold—guaranteed.