Sometimes, yes—insurance companies may require a home inspection before issuing or renewing a homeowners insurance policy. Whether or not one is needed depends on the age, condition, and location of your home, as well as your provider’s underwriting standards.
When Do Insurance Companies Require a Home Inspection?
Insurance-driven inspections typically occur in the following scenarios:
- The home is 20 years old or older
- The property has had previous claims or damage
- You are switching to a new insurer after a lapse in coverage
- The home is located in a higher-risk area (e.g., rural or mountainous terrain)
- The home is vacant, seasonal, or a rental
- The insurer suspects the home may not meet minimum habitability standards
Types of Insurance-Driven Home Inspections
Not all insurance inspections are the same. Here are the most common types:
| Inspection Type | Purpose | When It’s Used |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Point Inspection | Focuses on HVAC, electrical, plumbing, roof | Often required for older homes |
| Roof Certification | Verifies roof condition and age | Required for homes with aging roofs |
| Full Home Inspection | Assesses overall home condition | Occasionally used during underwriting |
| Exterior Survey | Evaluates siding, foundation, steps, etc. | Used to confirm curb appeal and safety |
In most cases, your insurer will tell you exactly which type of inspection is needed.
Do You Need an Inspection to Get Homeowners Insurance?
If you’re buying a newer home, especially with a recent buyer’s inspection on file, you likely won’t need an additional insurance inspection. However, if the home is older, recently vacant, or you’re switching insurers, an inspection may be required before coverage is approved.
Homes with new roofs, updated systems, or located in low-risk areas are often fast-tracked through underwriting without an inspection.
What Happens If the Inspection Reveals Problems?
If the inspection turns up issues that increase your home’s risk profile, your insurer may:
- Deny coverage until repairs are made
- Increase your premium
- Limit coverage or add exclusions
- Require proof of repairs before finalizing the policy
Examples include:
- Roofs near the end of their service life
- Outdated electrical panels or exposed wiring
- Plumbing or HVAC systems in poor condition
- Structural concerns like sagging porches or foundation cracks
How to Prepare for an Insurance Inspection
Before your home is inspected, take the time to:
- Repair visible issues like missing shingles, damaged siding, or broken steps
- Clean gutters and ensure drainage systems are working
- Provide clear access to your attic, electrical panel, and crawl space
- Address signs of moisture, rot, or pest activity
- Review previous inspection reports and confirm completed repairs
These steps can reduce red flags and improve your chances of securing full coverage.
How Ellingwood Pro Can Help
At Ellingwood Pro, we provide comprehensive home inspections that meet the documentation needs of most major insurance carriers. Whether you’re buying an older home, renewing a policy, or addressing risk factors, our certified inspectors can help you:
- Assess system and structural conditions
- Document current home condition with photos
- Identify issues before the insurer does
- Deliver a report within 24 hours
Serving homeowners throughout West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and Tennessee, we’re here to help you protect your investment with confidence.
To schedule your inspection, call (276) 566-5669 or request a free quote online.
