Why Do Insurance Companies Require Home Inspections?

The reason an insurance company might require a home inspection is liability and risk management. Insurance companies like to avoid — and be aware of — risk and inspections are an accurate way of monitoring it. A home inspection is an insurance company's way of avoiding future potential losses for liabilities that aren't listed on the initial application. An insurance home inspection typically checks the condition of a structure's: *Gutters *Roof *Siding *Fencing *HVAC *Plumbing systems *Fire alarm *Chimney *Windows and doors *Fire extinguishers *Anti-theft devices *Surrounding grounds You might be required to get a home inspection if you’re a new customer, if your home has an older build date, or if the structure's replacement cost is difficult to determine or needs verification. An insurance home inspection typically occurs 30 to 90 days after the policy start date. Your home may require an interior inspection, exterior inspection, or both. After the home insurance inspection, your homeowners premium may either increase or decrease. Your insurance company can also void your policy or provide a list of mandatory issues to fix if your inspection shows your home is too risky to insure.