Your Essential Homeowner’s Insurance Inspection Checklist: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Most homeowners dread the surprise of an insurance inspection catching them unprepared. Missing key details can cost you coverage or lead to costly delays. Knowing exactly what to expect during a homeowner’s insurance inspection puts you in control and saves you stress. This checklist breaks down the must-know steps every homeowner needs to handle inspections smoothly and confidently. It is pertinent to get your house in order to prepare for that inspection, as failing the inspection could be a cause for cancellation. For more information on what to expect during a homeowner’s insurance inspection, check out this helpful guide from Progressive.
Purpose of the Inspection
Why do insurance companies bother with these inspections? It’s simple: they want to make sure your home is as safe as possible.
Insurance inspections help companies figure out how risky it is to insure your home. They’re looking at things like how old your roof is, if your wiring is up to date, and whether there are any obvious safety hazards.
Think of it this way: if your home is in tip-top shape, you’re less likely to need to make a claim. That’s good for both you and the insurance company. Plus, these inspections can actually help you spot problems before they turn into big, expensive headaches.
What to Expect During a Homeowner’s Insurance Inspection
Wondering what actually happens during one of these inspections? Here’s the scoop.
First off, the inspector will take a good look at the outside of your house. They’ll check out your roof, siding, and foundation. They might even snap some photos for their records.
Preparing for Your Inspection
Now that you know what to expect, let’s talk about how to get ready. A little prep work can go a long way in making sure your inspection goes smoothly.
Key Areas to Check
Before the inspector arrives, take a walk around your house and look for any obvious issues. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Roof Condition- Check for missing shingles or any signs of damage. If you can’t see it well from the ground, consider hiring a pro to take a look.
Missing/Damaged or Debris Filled Gutters/Downspouts.
Any unrepaired damage to the home or other structures that have physical defects.
Overhanging Tree Limbs.
Proper Handrails on Steps-3 or more steps requires rails.
Ponds
Pools-is it fenced?
Trampolines-fenced of netted?
Old Appliances in the yard?
Inoperable Vehicles
Excessive Debris
Unacceptable Dog Breeds (Akita, American Bulldog, Boerboel, Cane Corso, Chow, Doberman, German Shepherd, Mastiff, Pitbull, Rottweiler, Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, Wolf Hybrid, or any variation of these breeds
