Introduction

When you switch home insurance providers, you may be asked to have an inspection—but not always. Some companies rely only on your application and claims history, while others want an inspector to take a closer look, especially if your home is older or has certain features.

If you do get an inspection request, don’t panic. It’s not a test, and it doesn’t mean something is wrong with your house. Here’s when inspections are requested, what inspectors look for, and how you can prepare.

Why Do Insurance Companies Inspect Homes?

Insurance companies need to understand the risks associated with your property. The inspection helps them:

Confirm the home’s condition matches the application.
Identify potential hazards that could lead to claims.
Suggest (or sometimes require) updates to reduce risk.

Think of it as a preventative measure—it protects both the insurer and the homeowner.

What Inspectors Look For

Here’s a breakdown of the most common areas checked during a home insurance inspection:

Roof & Exterior: Shingles, flashing, siding, gutters, and foundation cracks.
Plumbing: Pipe types, water heater age, and any signs of leaks.
Electrical: Panel size (100+ amps is standard), outdated wiring (knob-and-tube, aluminum), or unsafe fuse boxes.
Heating Systems: Age and type of furnace, boiler, or oil tank (especially important if older than 20 years).
Fire Safety: Working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, chimneys, and fireplaces.
General Condition: Evidence of water damage, mold, or neglect.

Older Homes and Insurance Inspections

Older homes have character—but they also have older systems. Inspectors know this and don’t expect perfection. Instead, they focus on whether those systems are safe.

Acceptable: An older but intact roof, or a 15-year-old furnace that still runs well.
Concerning: Knob-and-tube wiring, leaking plumbing, or an expired oil tank.

What Happens If Issues Are Found?

Finding an issue doesn’t mean you lose coverage. Most insurers will:

Approve the policy but note required updates.
Give you a timeline (often 30–90 days) to make fixes.
Sometimes re-inspect once repairs are complete.

In rare cases of severe risk, they may decline, but usually it’s about upgrading safety—not punishing homeowners.

How to Prepare for a Home Insurance Inspection

You can reduce stress by taking a few simple steps before the inspector arrives:

Test smoke & CO detectors and replace batteries.
Clear access to electrical panels, furnace, and plumbing areas.
Tidy up small issues like dripping taps, missing downspouts, or blocked vents.
Gather system info—know the age and last service date of your furnace, boiler, and water heater.

Final Thoughts

If you live in an older home, switching insurance providers and going through an inspection may feel intimidating. But remember: inspectors are there to make sure your home is safe, not to criticize it. Most issues can be fixed with small upgrades, and in the long run, these improvements not only protect your home but also give you peace of mind.

Switching insurance should feel like a step toward greater protection—not a reason to panic.

What to Expect During a Home Insurance Inspection (and Why You Don’t Need to Worry)