Will my home need an inspection before my insurance policy is finalized?

As one of the area’s most trusted insurance brokers, one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is: “Will my home need an inspection before my insurance policy is finalized? And most of the time, the answer will be yes, especially if your home is older or possibly has unique features that affect replacement cost.

A home insurance inspection is like a routine check-up for your house. It confirms your property’s value, ensures it meets safety standards, and highlights potential risks that may not have been obvious when you first applied for coverage.

In this guide, we’ll explain why insurance companies request inspections, what inspectors typically review inside and outside your home, and how you can prepare in advance to avoid surprises.

Why Do Insurance Companies Require Home Inspections?

At its core, insurance is about managing risk. When a company issues a homeowners policy, they’re committing: if disaster strikes, they’ll help you rebuild and recover. To keep that promise responsibly, they need a clear picture of the risks tied to your home.

That’s where inspections come in. A home inspection gives insurers a better understanding of potential issues—structural problems, outdated systems, or hidden hazards—that could lead to costly claims later. In Missouri, for example, insurers often flag aging roofs, older plumbing, and storm-related vulnerabilities.

During an inspection, you can expect professionals to review:

• Roof & gutters – signs of wear, leaks, or drainage problems
• Siding & exterior – cracks, rot, or mold
• Windows & doors – secure locks and proper sealing
• Chimney & fireplace – structural soundness and ventilation
• HVAC & plumbing – system age, efficiency, and safety risks
• Safety equipment – working smoke detectors, CO alarms, fire extinguishers
• Surroundings – trees, fences, garages, sheds, or pools

You’re more likely to need an inspection if you’re a new customer, own an older home, or if your property’s replacement value is tricky to calculate. Most inspections take place within 30–90 days after your policy starts.

The outcome matters. Depending on what’s found, your premium could increase, decrease, or—if serious issues are uncovered—coverage may be put on hold until corrections are made.

Hypothetical Example: Failed Inspection Leads to Higher Replacement Cost

Background:

• Homeowner lives in a 50-year-old house in suburban St. Louis County, Missouri.
• The policy was written several years ago with replacement cost based on older estimates of construction materials and labor.
• The home has never had major structural work; much of the plumbing, roof, windows, and HVAC systems are original to the house.

What Happens During the Inspection:
An insurance company orders a home inspection soon after the homeowner renews their policy. The inspector finds:

1. Roof: Many old shingles are loose or missing, wood sheathing has begun rotting, and leaks are starting, especially after storms.
2. Windows & Doors: Window frames are warped, seals are failing, windows are drafty — some windows no longer lock securely.
3. HVAC System: The furnace is old, past its expected lifespan; ductwork is deteriorating.
4. Outdated Wiring: Some electrical components are localized and not up to current code.
5. Foundation & Drainage Issues: Minor cracks in the foundation; poor drainage causing water accumulation near the foundation, which could exacerbate foundation or lower-level walls damage in heavy rains.

Result of Inspection:

• The insurance company re-evaluates the replacement cost. Because materials (roofing, windows, HVAC) and labor costs in Missouri have increased since the last estimate, and because the required repairs are substantial, the insurer estimates that rebuilding the house in its current condition would cost 20–25% more than previously assumed.
• The homeowner is informed that until significant repairs are made (roof, windows, drainage), the insurer cannot maintain the previous replacement cost basis safely — otherwise, there’s a risk of underinsurance.

Action Taken:

• The homeowner is given a timeline (say, 6 months) to complete certain repairs (replace or repair roof, upgrade windows, address drainage).
• Once those are completed, the insurer will use the updated replacement cost in the policy.

Effect:

• The replacement cost shown in the policy is increased (after the repairs) — meaning the premium goes up to match the greater cost to rebuild.
• In some cases, if the homeowner does not make the repairs, the insurer may limit coverage, impose higher deductibles, or refuse certain coverage for items damaged by the deficiencies (e.g. water damage due to poor drainage or roof leaks).

How to Prepare for a Home Insurance Inspection

Taking care of small issues in advance can prevent bigger headaches later. Here are 14 proactive steps you can take:

Exterior Preparation

• Inspect and repair your roof, removing debris and damaged shingles.
• Clean and secure gutters.
• Check windows and doors for proper sealing and locks.
• Examine the chimney for missing bricks or cracked mortar.
• Repair siding damage, cracks, or mold.
• Inspect the foundation for cracks or uneven settling.
• Trim branches, repair fences, and check sheds/garages.

Interior Preparation

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries.
• Confirm fire extinguishers are current.
• Inspect fireplaces for stains or smoke backup.
• Address water stains or mold on walls/ceilings.
• Check plumbing and wiring for leaks, rust, or exposure.
• Inspect attics for pests and confirm ventilation.
• Make sure bathrooms and kitchens are mold-free and windows lock properly.

Can You Get Home Insurance Without an Inspection?

Sometimes, yes. If your home is new, has no claims history, and your application doesn’t raise concerns, an inspection may not be required. But asking your insurer to skip one is usually counterproductive—raising the question often makes an inspection more likely.

The Bottom Line

Inspections are a normal part of the insurance process. They don’t just protect your insurer—they protect you, too, by ensuring your home is properly valued and risks are addressed before they become major problems.

Final Thoughts from a Competent & Poised Insurance Agency

A home insurance inspection isn’t about passing or failing—it’s about making sure your home and your policy truly reflect reality. By taking time to prepare, you can protect your investment, keep your coverage secure, and in some cases, even lower your premium.

At Mathenia Insurance Group, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process—from preparing for the inspection to understanding the results. Because insurance isn’t just about policies; it’s about peace of mind. And that peace of mind starts with knowing your home is fully protected.

Ready to take the next step? Get a free quote from us today!