How a Homeowners Insurance Inspection Works
What happens during a home insurance inspection?
Home inspectors are typically hired by recent homebuyers, homeowners looking to sell, or homeowners who want to check for any issues.[1]
While it’s not required, homeowners and buyers may want to attend the inspection and talk with the inspector as they examine particular areas to gain insight into any concerns or safety issues. If you’re purchasing a home, it’s a good idea to pay close attention and ask questions so you’re fully informed when it comes time to finalize your purchase.
The main type of inspection is known as a 4-point inspection. This means that the focus is on four key areas when looking for potential problems: the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
During the inspection of your home, the professional will examine all major systems. A standard home inspection includes exterior and interior inspections. For example, the insurance company will want to examine the exterior of your roof and may also check the attic or other areas near the roof for water damage.
Some insurance companies require a full home inspection. The main reasons your house may need a full home inspection include if it’s a brand-new home, if you’re looking to increase the value of your property, and if your mortgage lender requires a full inspection before purchase.
On average, a home inspection takes between two and four hours to complete, depending on the size and condition of the home. Ideally, the inspector has access to all areas of the house, but they’ll note if they can’t access any areas in their report. The inspector will crawl into spaces, climb on the roof, and use a flashlight to check areas that aren’t usually visible, looking for potential issues.
An inspector will not come unannounced, and all parties must be notified of the inspector’s planned arrival at the property.
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What parts of your house do home insurance inspectors look at?
During a home inspection, the inspector will tour the entire property. They pay particular attention to the 4-point inspection areas as well as other core areas of the home. These include:[2]
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Roof
The inspector looks for signs of leaks, water damage, wear and tear, and other structural failures in your roof that could lead to significant damage in the future. Depending on your state, you may need a wind mitigation inspection to determine if your roof can withstand hurricanes and other tropical storms.
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Foundation
When checking a home’s foundation, the inspector looks for cracks that could indicate shifting or instability. Damages to the foundation could be extremely expensive to repair.
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Plumbing
The homeowners insurance company wants to know that pipes are up to code and in safe working condition. Faulty pipes could lead to water damage, mold, or sewage problems.
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HVAC
Inspectors will check the HVAC system to ensure the house meets safety standards for heating and cooling.
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Electrical system
When checking your house, an inspector will examine the wiring to ensure it’s current and in good condition. Faulty wiring can lead to house fires.
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Exterior
The home inspection will also include an examination of the exterior of your home, including windows, siding, doors, and landscaping.
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Safety features
Inspectors will look for smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, fences around pools, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, and security systems.
While all home inspections are thorough, some may require a particularly thorough inspection. Typically, inspectors check older homes and homes located in higher-risk areas for storms or natural disasters with extra caution to avoid missing potential issues. New homes may also have extensive inspections to find potential problems.
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