Claim Insight: What happens during an inspection?

Filing an insurance claim can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes time for the inspection. You might wonder what exactly the inspector will be looking for and how the process works. Understanding what happens during an insurance claim inspection can help you prepare and ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect.

1. Scheduling the Inspection

Once you’ve filed a claim, the first step is scheduling the inspection. Your insurance company will assign an adjuster, who is the person responsible for assessing the damage and determining how much the insurer should pay for the repairs. The adjuster or their office will contact you to set up a convenient time for the inspection.

Tip: Make sure to choose a time when you can be present during the inspection. Your input and ability to provide details about the damage can be valuable.

2. Preparing for the Inspection

Before the inspector arrives, take some time to prepare:

• Document the damage: Take photos or videos of the damage from multiple angles. This provides a record in case there are any discrepancies later.
• Gather documents: Have any relevant documents ready, such as your insurance policy, receipts, repair estimates, and previous communications with your insurance company.
• Make a list: Write down details about the damage, including when and how it happened, and any immediate repairs you made to prevent further damage.

Being organized can help the inspection go more smoothly and ensure that no important details are overlooked.

3. Meeting the Adjuster

When the adjuster arrives, they’ll introduce themselves and explain the inspection process. They may ask you some initial questions about the claim, such as:

• When did the damage occur?
• What caused the damage?
• Were there any temporary repairs made?

Be honest and detailed in your answers. The more accurate the information you provide, the better the adjuster can assess your claim.

4. The Inspection Process

During the inspection, the adjuster will carefully examine the areas of your home that were damaged. Here’s what typically happens:

• Exterior Inspection: The adjuster will start by examining the outside of your home. They’ll look at the roof, siding, windows, and any other exterior elements that may have been affected. They may use tools like ladders, moisture meters, or drones to get a thorough assessment.
• Interior Inspection: The adjuster will then move inside your home to inspect the damaged areas. This could include checking walls, ceilings, floors, and any affected personal property. They’ll be looking for signs of damage like water stains, cracks, or structural issues.
• Documentation: Throughout the inspection, the adjuster will take notes, photos, and measurements. This documentation is used to create a report that will help determine the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs.

Tip: Point out all areas of damage to the adjuster, even if they seem minor. It’s better to have everything documented during the initial inspection.

5. Answering Questions and Providing Information

As the inspection progresses, the adjuster may ask additional questions to clarify details about the damage or your claim. Be prepared to provide information such as:

• Receipts or estimates: If you’ve already obtained estimates for repairs or have receipts for emergency repairs you’ve completed, share these with the adjuster.
• Historical information: If the damage is related to a pre-existing condition or you’ve had similar issues in the past, the adjuster may ask about it.

This is also a good time to ask any questions you have about the inspection process or your claim.

6. Temporary or Emergency Repairs

If you’ve made any temporary or emergency repairs to prevent further damage, let the adjuster know. These repairs are usually covered by your insurance, and the adjuster will want to document them. Provide receipts or other proof of these repairs to ensure you’re reimbursed.

Tip: Only make temporary repairs necessary to prevent further damage until the inspection is completed and you receive approval from your insurer for full repairs.

7. After the Inspection: What Happens Next?

Once the inspection is complete, the adjuster will compile their findings into a report. This report will detail the extent of the damage, the cause (if identifiable), and an estimate for the cost of repairs or replacement.

Here’s what usually happens next:

• Report Submission: The adjuster submits their report to the insurance company. This typically happens within a few days of the inspection.
• Claim Review: Your insurance company reviews the adjuster’s report and compares it with your policy to determine coverage and the payout amount.
• Settlement Offer: If your claim is approved, you’ll receive a settlement offer detailing how much the insurance company will pay. This offer should cover the cost of repairs, minus your deductible and any applicable limits.

8. Reviewing the Settlement Offer

Once you receive the settlement offer, review it carefully. Compare the offer with the damage estimates you’ve received from contractors. If the offer seems too low or doesn’t cover all the damage, you have the right to negotiate or request a reinspection.

Steps to take include:

• Compare with estimates: Ensure the settlement aligns with repair estimates. If not, ask your adjuster for clarification.
• Negotiate if necessary: If you believe the offer is too low, present your contractor’s estimates and any additional documentation to support your case.
• Request a reinspection: If significant damage was missed during the initial inspection, request a re inspection to ensure it’s properly documented.

9. Finalizing the Claim

Once you’re satisfied with the settlement offer, you can accept it, and the insurance company will issue the payment. Depending on your policy, this might come as a single payment or in installments, particularly if the repairs are extensive.

Tip: Keep records of all communications, estimates, and repairs made. This documentation can be useful if there are any issues or questions later in the process.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Involved

An insurance claim inspection is a crucial step in the claims process, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and in control. By preparing in advance, being thorough during the inspection, and following up with your insurance company, you can help ensure that your claim is handled fairly and efficiently. If you ever feel uncertain about any part of the process, don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification from your adjuster.