Can I Get Homeowners Insurance Without an Inspection?

You may wonder whether you need an inspection if you’re in the market for a home insurance policy. The answer depends on your unique situation and the insurance company you choose. While there may be instances in which you can avoid an inspection, investing in one is often worthwhile. With an inspection, you’ll be able to uncover significant defects and reduce the risk of unwanted financial surprises down the road. Below, we’ll dive deeper into when an insurer might not require an inspection and what you can do to prepare for one.

When You May Be Able to Skip a Home Inspection

Home insurance companies don’t always require an inspection. Despite this, looking for a home inspector near you is usually wise, especially if your property is older, expensive, or in an area with extreme weather conditions or natural disasters. Here are several situations in which a home insurer may grant you a policy without an inspection:

A New Build or Recent Remodel

If you’re interested in an older home or want to renew a home insurance policy on an aging property, the insurer will likely request an inspection. This is because its systems, such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, may be outdated. A newly constructed or completely renovated home with an updated roof and other new components might give your insurance company more peace of mind and, in turn, eliminate the need for an inspection. 

A Lower-Value Property

When you apply for a home insurance policy, an insurance company will look at your home’s replacement cost to determine how much it will cost to rebuild after a covered loss. If you choose a less expensive property, there’s a greater chance you won’t need an inspection. On the other hand, a million-dollar home will probably come with an inspection requirement and warrant both a general contractor and an inspector.         

A Low Natural Disaster Risk

Some areas are more prone to natural disasters, such as tornadoes, wildfires, and hurricanes. If the property you hope to buy or own is in an area without many natural disasters, a home insurance company might not require an inspection as your home will pose a smaller risk to them.

You Had an Inspection Recently 

If you or a previous homeowner have invested in an inspection in the last 10 years, you may not need a new one to lock in home insurance coverage. It all depends on your insurer and how they feel about the property's risk level. It’s possible to sell a house without a new inspection, especially if it’s only been several years since one was done.

Tips to Prepare for a Home Inspection

If your home insurance company asks you for an inspection or you determine it is worth it, these strategies can help ensure a successful experience and potentially decrease your home insurance costs.

• Clean up: If the home is cluttered, it’s your job to tidy it up. This will make it easier for the inspector to check every exterior and interior aspect of the property.

• Prepare the documents: Get a copy of your home’s floor plan and recent repairs. Valuable documentation like this may lead to lower premiums. A list of questions you want to ask during a home inspection can also be helpful. 

• Search for water damage: Water damage is a common yet serious issue in many homes. Use a flashlight to look for signs of it, such as leaks, mold, and mildew.

• Inspect the exterior: Examine the siding more closely to identify warped boards, cracks, peeling paint, and other damage. Also, the gutters and foundation cracks should be assessed.

• Test the plumbing: Turn on your showers, tubs, sinks, and faucets. Pinpoint any issues, leaks, drips, or clogs.