What Is an Insurance Inspection—And Should You Be Worried?

Learn what a home insurance inspection is, what inspectors look for, and how to prepare.

​Discover how these post-bind reviews impact your coverage and what to do if issues are flagged.

---

When you bind a new home insurance policy, everything might seem set. You’ve chosen your coverage, signed the paperwork, and received your declarations page. But then, just days later, you get an email or letter from your carrier saying they’ll be performing a property inspection. Cue the confusion and panic.

So, what exactly is a home insurance inspection—and should you be worried?
Let’s break it down.

🔍 What Is a Post-Bind Home Insurance Inspection?
A home insurance inspection is a standard review conducted after your policy is issued. Carriers use it to verify that the property matches the details submitted on the application and that it meets their underwriting guidelines. These inspections are usually limited to the exterior of the home and are completed by a third-party inspector hired by the insurance company.

📸 No need to be home!
Most inspections are done from the street or driveway and don’t require you to be present. However, you may be contacted if photos or interior details are needed.

🏠 What Do Inspectors Look For?
Here’s what a typical post-bind inspection checks:

• Roof Condition
  Carriers often have limits on roof age and condition. Missing shingles, sagging areas, or signs of hail damage can trigger concern.
• Exterior Maintenance
  Peeling paint, wood rot, cracked siding, or boarded windows may be flagged as a liability or maintenance risk.
• Foundation Issues
  Large cracks or noticeable settling can raise red flags, even if the home is otherwise structurally sound.
• Trees and Vegetation
  Trees touching or hanging over the roof, excessive brush, or lack of clearance from the home can be marked as a fire or storm hazard.
• Fencing and Railings
  Broken or missing railings on steps, decks, or porches can be cited as a safety liability.
• Detached Structures
  Garages, sheds, pools, and trampolines may be noted and could require additional underwriting review.
• Dog Breeds or Animals on Premises
  Some carriers have restrictions on specific breeds or require liability waivers or exclusions.

⚠️ What Happens If Issues Are Found?
If something doesn’t meet the carrier’s guidelines, they may:

1. Request Repairs
   You’ll typically be given 30–60 days to fix the issue and submit photo proof.
2. Adjust Coverage or Pricing
   In some cases, coverage may be limited or rated differently until repairs are made.
3. Cancel the Policy
   If major risks are found or no action is taken, the carrier may issue a cancellation notice—usually with advance warning.

💡 Insurance Tip:
A cancellation after an inspection doesn’t mean you're uninsurable. It just means that particular carrier’s guidelines weren’t met. An independent agency like Corin Insurance can help place you with a better-fitting carrier.

👷 Can You Prepare for a Home Insurance Inspection?
Yes—especially if you’re switching carriers or insuring a home you haven’t updated recently. Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Trim back trees touching the home or roof
• Repair broken or missing handrails
• Clean up debris, brush, or excess vegetation
• Patch visible damage to siding, stairs, or gutters
• Inspect roof for missing shingles or sagging areas
• Keep pets secured and visible signage updated if needed

📋 Is This the Same as a Home Appraisal?
Not quite. A home appraisal is usually done by a lender to determine market value for a mortgage. A home insurance inspection is focused on condition, risk, and rebuild cost, not how much the home would sell for.

🤔 Should You Be Worried?
For most homeowners, there’s no need to stress. Insurance inspections are common, especially with new policies or homes over 10 years old. Carriers simply want to confirm the property meets their standards—and if something comes up, you’ll typically have a fair chance to fix it.

🛡️ Final Thoughts
A home insurance inspection might feel like a surprise, but it’s part of how insurers make sure your home is protected properly—and that their coverage reflects your home’s current condition. It’s not a bad thing—it’s a checkpoint to ensure accuracy and reduce the chance of denied claims or gaps in coverage.

👉 Have questions after an inspection or received a cancellation notice?
At Corin Insurance, we help homeowners find the right policy--even if another company turns you away.

Contact us today for honest answers and better coverage options.

Disclaimer:
Coverage eligibility and inspection requirements vary by state, carrier, and property type. This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. For help with your specific situation, contact a licensed insurance advisor.