What do home insurance inspectors look for

When it comes to home inspections for homeowners insurance there are typically two primary purposes. The first is to appraise your home’s replacement cost and the second is to identify any existing risks that may be an issue in the future.

In this article we go over different things an inspector might look for during a home inspection. Hopefully this will better prepare you for the very accurate magnifying glass of the insurance underwriters. 

The replacement cost of the home. Statically the majority of homeowners don’t leave accurate home values when filling out an application. A lot of us may seem it reasonable to go off the values on Zillow as an estimate. Unfortunately both of these options don’t give us an accurate cost estimate for the replacement of the home. 

Rebuilding the home from scratch is very different from buying a home that’s already built. Land being a big determining factor in value. Labor and material cost will be factored into the overall cost, as well as interior features. Please keep in mind, all of this will come into account when determining your home insurance premiums. 

The condition of the house. The condition your property is in will be a major factor. Most inspections will include an evaluation of all the poetical hazards and risks. They will also evaluate any possible areas of liability. You can expect the home insurance inspector to review your roof, yard, gutters, siding, plumbing and much more. If they notice anything that could pose a possible risk they will take note of it. 

Anything that could end in a possible claim is usually what they are looking for. Upkeep of the property can be important as well. If you have overgrown hedges that look like they could be a hazard, they more than likely will take note of it. 

When it comes to pride of ownership it mostly has to do with how you take care of your property. Your insurance company likes to know you take care of your property and do your part to keep it safe. 

Having fire alarms, smoke director’s, and security systems working and cared for is a very important factor. This shows you are prepared and will be alerted if any danger appears.

Home insurance inspection what do they check

The insurance companies home inspector usually checks the condition of a structures;

• Gutters
• Roof
• Siding
• Fencing
• HVAC
• Plumbing
• Fire alarm
• Chimney
• Windows
• Yard
• Anti Theft
• Doors
• Fire extinguishers 

A good point to keep in mind, a home inspection can lead to either an increase or a decrease in your home insurance premium. Your home insurance company also has the right to void your homeowners insurance policy or give you a list of things you’re required to fix within the home. 

The home insurance company is insuring your risk. The more risky your home looks, the higher your insurance premium may be. If there are things you can fix on your home before the inspection, it may be wise to get them done. 

How to be prepared for an exterior home inspection

1. Check the gutters. Make sure everything is attached and in good working order. Remove anything in them and clear any blockages. 
2. Check the roof of the home. Make sure there isn’t any damage. If there is fix what’s possible. Check for decay and any damaged or loose roof pieces. 
3. Check the foundation of the home. Look to see if there are any areas that are uneven or cracked. Anything that can be fixed, do your best to fix it before the inspector comes by. 
4. Check all your windows and doors. Take a look at the door frames and make sure everything is in place and sealed well. All doors should lock, leading outside. 
5. Check the gutters. Clean out what you can and make sure everything is working properly. 
6. Check all the exterior finishes and surfaces. You’re going to want to go around the home and check all the siding for cracks, mold, decay, excess wear, rot and mildew.
7. Check the yard and grounds surrounding the property. If you have an oversized tree with limbs hanging over or on the roof, you may want to trim anything back that is in contact with your house. Make sure all fencing can be locked and secured. If you have a garage or shed please make sure they will pass inspection as well. Look for hazards and risks. 

How to be prepared for an interior home inspection

Now that we are prepared for our exterior home inspection, let’s take a look at what we should be prepared for when it comes to the interior of your home. 

1. Check all the ceilings and walls. Tour the home and look for any water damage, decay, mold or unevenness. 
2. Check all fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure they all have batteries that work and function properly. 
3. Check all household systems. Make sure all plumbing and electrical systems are in working order and will pass inspection.
4. Check the fireplace. Make sure there is no “back drafting”. Which is when there isn’t a way for the smoke to leave the chimney. 
5. Check all living spaces. You’re going to want to take a walk around your home and check the kitchen, the bathrooms, the bedrooms and all living areas. Make sure door and windows lock. Check ventilation and any signs of decay, water damage or mold. 

Please use these lists as a starting point to a much more complete check of your home. Do your research and check for anything you personal may think will be or become hazardous. Fix what you can and make sure all maintenance is up to date. 

If you have additional questions about home insurance and would like information on getting a better homeowners insurance policy, please give us a call! Our agents are experts when it comes to home insurance and would love to answer all of your questions! 916 313 6100