An Explainer: Home Inspection Vs. Home Insurance Inspection

There are a lot of things that go into buying a house. The list of things to do seems never-ending, including things like getting an appraisal as well as a home inspection. Taking those measures is crucial because it will determine the home's worth against the amount you're loaning. Moreover, you will be able to see exactly what shape the house is in before actually committing to a purchase.

Determining the home’s value is usually tied to a home inspection. But some people mistake home inspection to be the same as home insurance inspection.

They’re not the same. And in this article, we’ll discuss their difference and what happens during a home insurance inspection.

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is done to make sure there will be no unpleasant surprises when it’s time to live in the home. It is done for your peace of mind; you won’t have to worry that damaged wiring might cause a fire while you’re sleeping or the home’s foundation will collapse when a natural disaster strikes.

A certified home inspector will examine every nook and cranny of the home. After a thorough inspection, they will write a comprehensive report citing any issue that can be a problem later on.

Take note that mortgage lenders don't necessarily ask for a home inspection, but they do ask for an appraisal since establishing the value of a property is crucial.

What Is a Home Insurance Inspection and Why Is It Necessary?

Home insurance inspection is something that is required as a condition before being eligible to get home insurance coverage.

The general point of a home insurance inspection is for the cost of the home's replacement to be determined. It's how the insurance company manages to assess risk in order to figure out the likelihood of you needing to file a damages claim. At the same time, estimated premium costs can be calculated. This may be far more necessary if the home being purchased is older. Alternatively, if a home is prone to natural disasters like forest fires, hurricanes, or earthquakes, then an inspection will be necessary as well.

Home Insurance Inspection Coverage

During the inspection, the insurance company will take a look at the exterior of the house. This visual inspection will assess the condition of the roofing, windows, doors, and more.

In most cases, a visual inspection would suffice. However, in case the company requires a more thorough inspection, the interiors would have to be evaluated too.

Home insurance inspections vary, but they typically include assessments of the following:

• Anti-theft measures (deadbolts or a home security system, among others)

• Attic spaces

• Crawl spaces

• Drainage systems (exterior and interior)

• Exterior hazards that can cause damage

• Exterior items that could get damaged

• Fireplaces and chimneys

• Home appliances

• HVAC system age and condition

• Plumbing systems

• Roof age and condition

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Walls and floors condition

The goal is essentially to assess replacement cost and risk should the home end up with damage.

Conclusion

A home insurance inspection should not be confused with a home inspection. A home inspection aims to determine the property’s value. Meanwhile, when a home insurance inspection is in place, the purpose is to meet a requirement in order to determine coverage.

Are you trying to find the best home insurance in Orlando, Florida? Reach out to Sanford Insurance Center today! Our available coverage services include homeowners insurance, mobile home insurance, and more.