Between inspections, financing, and packing boxes, homeowners insurance can end up as an afterthought during a home purchase. This checklist walks through exactly what to handle and when, so nothing falls through the cracks before or after closing on your Sacramento home.
Before You’re Under Contract
- Get a preliminary insurance quote once you’re seriously considering a specific property
- Ask about the home’s claims history through a CLUE report if available
- Check whether the property falls within a mapped flood zone
After Your Offer Is Accepted
- Get formal quotes from multiple carriers
- Confirm your dwelling coverage reflects accurate rebuild cost, not just the purchase price
- Review the home inspection report for any red flags that might affect insurability, like an aging roof or outdated electrical system
- Decide whether you need flood or earthquake coverage based on the property’s specific risk factors
Before Closing
- Provide proof of insurance to your lender or title company, typically a few days before closing
- Confirm your policy’s effective date matches your closing date
- Double-check your liability coverage limits are adequate for your overall financial picture
Right After Closing
- Confirm your policy is officially active
- Photograph or video the home’s condition at move-in
- Update your mailing address with your insurer and other accounts
- Ask about bundling your new policy with your auto insurance
Within Your First Few Months
- Build or update a home inventory list with photos and estimated values
- Schedule high-value items like jewelry or collectibles separately if needed
- Ask about discounts for security systems, smoke detectors, or other safety features
- Confirm sewer backup or other endorsements make sense given the home’s age
Ongoing, Every Year
- Review and update your dwelling coverage for rebuild cost inflation
- Compare quotes across multiple carriers rather than auto-renewing indefinitely
- Update coverage after any major renovation or purchase of high-value items
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start shopping for homeowners insurance?
As soon as you’re seriously considering a specific property, ideally well before you’re under contract.
What’s the biggest mistake first-time buyers make with home insurance?
Insuring for purchase price instead of true rebuild cost, which can leave a significant coverage gap after a total loss.
Do I need to review my policy every year?
Yes, rebuild costs and personal property values change over time, and an annual review helps keep your coverage accurate.
Work Through This Checklist With an Expert
Eugene C. Yates Insurance Agency can guide you through every step of this checklist for your Sacramento home purchase. Contact us today to get started.