Insurers use a home insurance inspection to determine the risk level for a property. They can use this information to estimate the replacement value of a house and determine if the property is susceptible to disasters such as fire or water damage.
An insurer may ask you to undergo a home-inspection before insuring your house for a variety of reasons. These include limiting their risk to keep their business afloat, providing better coverage and ensuring that you're getting the most affordable premium possible for your needs.
If you want to avoid a home-inspection, you have several choices. First, you can choose to get a policy from an insurer that doesn't require a home inspection. This can be beneficial for you if you've been having trouble getting coverage with a traditional insurance company, and it could save you money in the long run.
You can also get insurance through an insurer that is specialized in high-risk property. These policies are typically more expensive than traditional home insurance policies, but they can be a good option for homeowners who have had difficulty finding coverage on the market.
Also, you can choose to buy coverage from the surplus market. These are markets where insurance companies do not need to be licensed by the state or have their policy financially backed. These policies cost more than standard home insurance, but they are available if your risk of making an insurance claim is low.
A homeowners insurance inspector will examine your home's exterior. They will measure your house and look for special architectural features, as well as check the quality materials that were used to construct it. They'll check to see if the heating, roofing, electrical, or plumbing systems are working.
In some cases, the inspector will also check for pests and infestations. This is useful in particular for homes where there has been a history with rodents or termites. They will check for possible breeding grounds, and any signs of water damage.
Some insurance companies even send you an inspection letter by mail to help you prepare for the home visit. The inspector will give you a detailed report listing any problems they find.
In the event that the inspector finds a problem with the plumbing in your home, for instance, you may need to hire an experienced plumber to make the repairs. An inspector won't know the exact cost of the repair, so it is best to consult a professional contractor.
It may be difficult to get through the inspection, but you'll want to do it anyway if you care about your safety. It can help you to prioritize your home's repairs, preventing costly renovations later on.