What to compare
A home-insurance inspection can confirm application facts before or after binding. Prepare accurate records and fix safety or maintenance issues; do not try to stage or conceal conditions.
- Roof age, covering, layers, visible wear, drainage, and prior repair
- Electrical service, panels, wiring, heating, plumbing, water heater, and shutoff access
- Foundation, siding, steps, railings, decks, trees, detached structures, and housekeeping hazards
- Pools, trampolines, pets, wood stoves, business use, vacancy, renovations, and other liability or occupancy facts
- Smoke alarms, leak protection, monitored systems, and mitigation features claimed on the application
Questions that need a written answer
| Question | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Is the inspection required before binding? | Ask about timing, access, photos, vendor, and whether interior review is included. |
| Can terms change afterward? | Confirm the process and deadline for repairs, exclusions, nonrenewal, or premium changes. |
| How can an error be corrected? | Request the report or disputed fact and submit dated records through the insurer's process. |
| What should be present during the visit? | Have permits, invoices, system ages, repair evidence, and safe access available. |
Records to keep with the quote
- Dated exterior and interior photos
- Roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and renovation invoices
- Permits and completed-repair documentation
- Inspection notice, report, response, and insurer confirmation
Important boundary: An inspection is an underwriting review, not a guarantee that every condition is safe or that a future loss will be covered.