Converted gas newel post lighting — Gas lamps converted to electric on newel posts.

The illumination of homes has changed over the years. Candles and oil lamps were among the first devices to light our homes, followed by gas lamps, then electricity, which is currently in use today.

It is not uncommon during an inspection of a historic home in New Orleans to come across abandoned gas lines in an attic which once supplied gas to overhead or wall lighting. Occasionally I’ll find and abandoned gas wall bracket or valve on a wall where a gas wall fixture once resided. Rarely do I find older fixtures which have been converted to electricity and are still in use, but it does happen.

Converted gas bathroom lighting — Converted gas bathroom fixture

Once during an inspection of an early 1900’s home in New Orleans, most of the fixtures in place were original gas fixtures converted to electricity. The date of conversion is not known. The gas lamps on the newel posts of the stair well at the center of the room are the main focal point when entering the home.

Converted gas hall lighting — Converted gas hall fixture

Original converted gas lamps were found throughout the home, even in the closets. As a home inspector who performs inspections on many older New Orleans homes, it was impressive to see this many fixtures still in place and in good condition. Love looking at the historic lighting. It was like a step back in time. Inspecting historic homes is always interesting and rewarding.

There are several steps involved when buying a home. Some of the steps are straight forward but others are a little more involved. The whole process goes something like this; Get pre-approved for a loan; find your dream home; win bidding war of dream home; get a home inspection; get an appraisal; complete purchase; move in.

The difference between an inspection and an appraisal put in simple terms;
An inspection is performed to inform the client of the condition of the systems and components of the home, including major deficiencies and safety issues.
An appraisal is the unbiased estimate of property or land value. Lenders typically order an appraisal to determine the home’s market value to safeguard the amount of money requested for a loan is appropriate.

What you should know about home inspections:

· What it is: A home inspection is the process by which a Home Inspector visually examines the readily accessible systems and components of a home and describes those systems and components in accordance with the Standards of Practice.

· Inspection report: A written evaluation of two or more systems of a resale residential building or any other related residential housing system as defined in the standards of practice.

· Why you need it: An inspection will assist the buyer of the condition of the home and its components. Any deficiencies, safety issues, and deferred maintenance will be mentioned.

· When it happens: Once your offer has been accepted you have an inspection period. This time gives you the opportunity to inspect the property. It also gives you the opportunity to withdraw your offer or renegotiate the offer should any major or unexpected issues with the property arise.

· What’s covered: A home inspection includes the roof, structure, exterior, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, interior, and more.

· How you’re involved: Your inspector will walk you through all the things he/she has found if you are on site. However, I have many clients who are unable to attend the inspection, but call them afterwards to give a verbal overview of the inspection. A good inspector is available by phone or email should you have questions after you have left or if you are unable to attend the inspection.

Make sure the home inspector is experienced, licensed and insured.

The home inspection is designed to protect you, and your investment, so don’t skip a home inspection to save a few bucks. A home inspector who does what he is supposed to do and writes a good report will provide you with information you need to make an informed decision about the home you have chosen. Sometimes the information in the report can be used in your negotiations. So choose your inspector carefully.

Continue reading Home Inspections – What you should know.

Category: Home buyer

Lighting a historic New Orleans Home

Home Inspections – What you should know.