If you’re purchasing a new home insurance policy in Ohio or renewing an existing one, your insurer through Ruddy Insurance Group, serving Niles, OH, will likely require a home insurance inspection. You’ll know when they’re coming by, so take a moment to learn what they’ll be looking for. That way, you aren’t stressed on inspection day.

Exterior Assessment

The inspector will likely begin on the exterior of your home. They will want to look at the roof, siding, gutters, and foundation for visible damage. Roof damage is a biggie in Ohio. We have ice and heavy rain in the winter and occasional wind damage. They will note missing shingles, sagging gutters, and cracked siding.

Interior Assessment

After they’re finished outside, they will come inside to check your plumbing, electrical panel, and heating system. In Ohio we have older homes that may still have knob and tube wiring which many insurers will not insure your home until it’s updated. They will make note of your smoke detectors, water heater, and any visible damage from water damage. They aren’t looking for clutter or that you could paint your cabinets a nicer color. Maintenance issues are what they’re looking for that might cause a claim in the future.

Next Steps

Your insurance company will take the inspection report and approve, price adjust, or ask for repairs to be made before the policy will go through. You may even get a list of things to have repaired by a certain date to keep your policy from canceling. Keep all your receipts should they request you to make repairs.

The inspection itself isn’t a bad thing. Ohio home inspections are routine when getting proper coverage. So there’s no need to stress about it! Contact Ruddy Insurance Group, serving Niles, OH, if you have any questions!