3 Home Inspections to Have Done for Insurance Purposes

If there’s one thing Miami residents are all too familiar with, it’s hurricanes and tropical storms as well as the damage they cause and how to prepare for them.  Many insurers offer insurance discounts for hurricane construction, impact-resistant windows, and new roofs.  However, even the most well-constructed businesses and homes are unable to withstand Mother Nature’s wrath. That is why working with professionals that use good quality material becomes important for your safety. As a result, 3 home inspections can be done for homeowner’s insurance purposes including:

4-Point Home Inspections

The need for renovations and repairs increases as a home ages.  New appliances need to be bought, roofs and windows need replacing, and several other repairs and upgrades will have to be done.  Not surprisingly, insurance companies are never in a hurry to insure homes that are 25 years old or older compared to newer structures.

To mitigate risk, home inspections are required for insurance purposes.  The 4-point home inspection isn’t comprehensive and is usually performed to supplement other inspections.  As the name implies, this inspection focuses on 4 key areas:

• electrical systems
• HVAC systems
• plumbing systems
• roofing systems

Roof inspections

Many insurers require a roof inspection if you want homeowner’s insurance coverage as well as premium discounts and replacement cost coverage.  This means you’ll need a roof certification.  To obtain this, locate your copy of the roof building permit and give it to the inspector.  Furthermore, any receipts and invoices for past roof work should also be provided.  You don’t need the originals as copies are ok. These are needed as proof of the past work completed.

While performing the inspection, the inspector will take photos of the roof and then prepare his or her report thereby completing the certification process.  The entire process is usually completed within an hour.  Once all of this is completed, they will provide your insurance agent with the certification and home inspection report.

Wind Mitigation Inspections

Insurance companies in Miami and other coastal areas often require homeowners to get wind mitigation inspections (an inspection determining the stability of a structure and its ability to withstand hurricane-force winds).  Whether it’s a commercial or residential inspection, the inspector will assess certain factors such as the age of the structure, the roof’s age, and how it’s attached to the rafters, trusses, and walls.  They may factor in building codes when the home was built, roof installation, and secondary water barriers.

To learn more about these inspections or to schedule a home inspection, call Florida Inspections Unlimited today at 305-910-1171.