The holidays are here, and if you’re hosting family in your beautiful historic New Orleans home, you want everything to run smoothly. As a home inspector who’s seen it all, I’m sharing my top pre-guest checklist to ensure your home is safe, comfortable, and ready to impress.
1. Test Your Plumbing Before the Turkey Arrives
- Historic homes often have older plumbing systems that can struggle with increased usage
- Run all faucets and flush all toilets to check for leaks or slow drains
- Clear out those p-traps under sinks—hair and debris buildup can cause holiday weekend disasters
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is located (and make sure it actually works)
2. Inspect Your HVAC System
- November in New Orleans can be unpredictable—warm days and cool nights
- Change your air filters (they should be changed every 30-90 days anyway)
- Test both heating and cooling to ensure comfort for all guests
- Check that all vents are open and unobstructed
3. Electrical Safety Check
- Historic homes may have outdated electrical systems
- Test all GFCI outlets, especially in kitchens and bathrooms
- Avoid overloading circuits with holiday lights and multiple cooking appliances
- Have flashlights and candles ready (New Orleans weather can be unpredictable)
4. Fire Safety Essentials
- Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
- Check fire extinguisher pressure gauges
- Clear lint from your dryer vent before extra laundry loads
- Inspect your fireplace and chimney if you plan to use them
5. Exterior Walkway Safety
- Check for loose boards on porches and galleries
- Ensure outdoor lighting works for evening arrivals
- Trim back overgrown vegetation from pathways
- Test your doorbell (seems small, but it matters!)
Conclusion: A little preparation goes a long way in preventing holiday home emergencies. Your historic home has hosted generations of gatherings—make sure it’s ready for yours.
