Home Insurance Inspection Guide (Why, When, How, Who)

The feeling of true security in your own home is priceless, and that’s what a home insurance inspection offers. It provides the peace of mind you deserve, revealing hidden risks before they become costly nightmares.

In today’s post, we'll break down essential inspection points, explain what to expect from a professional inspector, and help you find the right one.

What is home inspection for insurance?

Among types of home inspection, a home insurance inspection is an assessment of your property's physical condition to identify issues that could lead to insured losses. The goal is to provide the insurer with objective data to evaluate risks, determine appropriate coverage, and calculate the premiums accurately.

How often should a house be checked for insurance purposes?

There’s no "every X year(s)" rule in this context. Instead, there are specific events or circumstances that act as triggers for conducting a home insurance inspection including new insurance applications, major renovations or additions, filing claims, no inspection in a long time (+10 years), and living in high-risk areas or old homes (+25 years).

Benefits of having a home inspection for insurance

There are compelling reasons for both you as the homeowner and the insurer such as:

• Fairer Premiums: By better understanding the risks, your insurer wouldn’t overcharge low-risk properties and price policies based on the specific aspects of the home.
• Fewer Disputes: A documented inspection (with a detailed report) minimizes disputes during claim settlements over pre-existing damage.
• Preventative Maintenance: These inspections highlight minor issues that, if addressed early, can prevent costly repairs or significant damage in the short and/or long term.
• Improved Coverage: A thorough assessment helps homeowners understand their property's specific needs and tailor their insurance coverage accordingly.

Wondering about the price? Read our guide on home inspection cost.

Why does my insurance company want to inspect my house?

When the time comes for a home insurance inspection, these are among the reasons why the insurer might want to inspect your house:

• Ensure Safety: First and foremost, they want to make sure that you and your family are completely safe at home.
• Fair Claims Handling: A pre-inspection report provides a clear record of your home's condition before potential damage.
• Compliance with Guidelines: Depending on your home’s age, location, and features, an inspection may be required to meet the company’s guidelines and industry standards.
• High-Risk Factors: Certain factors, such as your home's proximity to a wildfire zone or flood plain, might signal an inspection for better risk analysis and appropriate coverage.
• Significant Alterations: Major renovations or additions change the risk profile of your home. In this case, a home insurance inspection is essential to re-evaluate and update your coverage.

Can I refuse a home insurance inspection in Canada?

Yes, you can refuse a home insurance inspection in Canada; especially if your home is less than 25 years old, there haven’t been major changes, or you’ve had a recent inspection. Otherwise, you’ll basically limit your insurance options or face higher premiums later.

How to prepare for an inspection

Here’s how to prepare your home for a smooth and efficient inspection:

• Declutter and provide access: Ensure the inspector has easy, safe access to all areas of your home, including the attic, basement, crawl spaces, appliances, electrical panels, plumbing fixtures, etc. Look for any obstructions, debris, and evident safety hazards.
• Turn the utilities on: Water, gas, and electricity should be connected and turned on during the inspection. This allows the inspector to find any issues (e.g. water and gas leaks) instantly.
• Check the exterior: Tidy up the yard; remove any scraps, toys, or other items that could hinder inspecting the foundation, roof, and other exterior elements.
• Prepare the documents: Have the floor plans, system documentation, etc. on hand. If there have been recent repairs, have their proof (receipts, contractor information) readily available too.
• Be available: Try to be present during the home insurance inspection. It’s not necessary, but it can facilitate the process and allow you to ask questions.
• Know your policy: Be aware of your insurance policy details, particularly the coverage and any recent changes to your property. And if you have any areas of concern, make sure to point out everything (you might want to prepare a checklist beforehand).

Need more information on how to prepare for home insurance inspection? Check out this guide.

What do home inspectors look for?

A home insurance inspector typically examines the following for visible signs of damage:

• Roof
• Exterior walls and foundation
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Cooling and heating systems (old and/or new)
• Insulation and ventilation
• Interior floors, walls, and ceilings
• Fireplace and chimney
• Drainage
• Appliances

What Do Home Inspectors Don’t Cover?

The inspectors’ scope is limited to visual assessments. As a result, they won’t check detailed appliance functionality, underground systems beyond accessibility, pest infestation beyond surface evidence, septic systems and well water, or issues that require specialized equipment and testing tools.

Finding the right professional

To find the best professionals in your region, you need to prioritize local expertise, verify their certifications and licenses, check reviews, and ask about their experience with similar projects to protect your interests and investment. For more information, check out our other blog on how to choose home inspector.

The easier route would be to use platforms like Houmse.com that help you check all these boxes before hiring an inspector.

Why choose our service?

Looking for home inspection services in Toronto? With Houmse, you have access to an extensive list of nearby professionals along with their expertise, experience, added values, client reviews, and more. Submit your request now and get free quotations on home insurance inspection cost.

The bottom line

Home insurance inspections are like preventative maintenance for your wallet. Through finding issues before they become major disasters, you can guarantee your family’s safety or even lower your insurance premiums. It's smart, it's savvy, and it's the responsible homeowner's choice.