How to Prepare for a Home Insurance Inspection

While not every insurance provider will require one, home insurance inspections help insurance companies assess liability and risk management before writing a policy for a new or existing policyholder. Outcomes of these kinds of inspections can determine the cost of your insurance premium. Before the inspector shows up, here's what you need to know.

What Do Home Inspectors Look For?

Home inspections are common for a new policy or homes more than 25 years old. By inspecting your home, insurance companies can better determine your risk profile before insuring the property. The inspector will look at critical areas of the home, including:

• HVAC
• Plumbing
• Electrical
• Overall structure

While not required for every home, you should prepare for an insurance inspection in the event they schedule an inspector to assess it.

Interior Checkpoints

You won't necessarily need the inspector to enter your home unless it's older. However, if it's a required part of your inspection, failure to cooperate can result in a canceled policy or voided renewal. When preparing for an interior home insurance inspection, be sure to look for any signs of mold or water damage, pest infestation, or other critical issues in specific areas of the home, such as:

• Ceilings and walls (for lead paint and asbestos)
• Chimney
• Attic
• Doors and windows
• Exterior Checkpoints
  

Along with the most critical interior systems within your home—plumbing, electrical, roof and structure, and HVAC—the inspector will take a close look at major components of your home's exterior:

• Gutters
• Roof (Check for loose, faded, or curling shingles)
• Fencing
• Siding
• Anti-theft devices
  
• Your home could require an interior inspection, exterior inspection, or even both.

Get Started on a New Policy

Find the best policy for your home by shopping with Insurance Lounge. We're a no-commission agency based in Oregon capable of becoming your one-stop shop for multiple types of insurance. Our customers have the opportunity to shop for insurance their way—whether it's in person, online, or over the phone. Learn more by connecting with one of our agents today.