Deliver Value to Homeowners with a Spring Residential Inspection

With the arrival of a new season, many homeowners are planning to escape for spring break or are in the process of putting together summer travel plans. However, the nightmare scenario is that the property owner returns home after traveling to find that an appliance leaked and caused thousands of dollars of damage.

Insurance carriers can use a residential inspection to help put their customers at ease before an upcoming trip and help to mitigate their risk as well. Because insurance carriers generally have few opportunities to be face-to-face with insureds, offering a residential inspection is a way to strengthen relationships with insureds and build loyalty. Having the chance to be able to physically inspect the property also provides insurance carriers an opportunity to speak with homeowners about potential gaps in coverage and identify additional ways to serve them.

Here are several areas that property inspectors should take into account during a spring residential inspection:

1. Roof
Considering all of the harsh weather ailments that a roof comes in contact with, it’s critical that a property inspector carefully take a look at the roof for loose or missing shingles or visible roof damage. Since the roof is the most vulnerable part of a property, any signs of damage needs to be brought to the homeowner’s attention so that it can be addressed by a roofing contractor promptly.

2. Gutters
Gutters tend to accumulate a lot of debris during the fall and winter seasons and need to be cleaned out periodically to allow for proper drainage. Property inspectors should make homeowners aware that gutters need to be cleaned at least twice a year (every spring and fall) to protect the roof and avoid flooding and issues with the property’s foundation.

3. Appliances
The appliances inside the home–particularly the dishwasher, refrigerator, and washing machine–have the potential to wreak havoc on a property in the event of a water leak. Typically, kitchen appliances are not part of a property inspection. However, if the appliances are older and the homeowner is questioning their condition, it’s worthwhile to check them out. Check the dishwasher for signs of corrosion and run a cycle to confirm that the reservoir pan is empty of water at completion. Confirm that the seal on the refrigerator and freezer doors is intact and that the defrost drain is working properly. Check the hoses on the washing machine, the drain pump, and loose clamps.

4. Hot Water Heater
If the home has a traditional water heater tank, inspect it for damage or corrosion and take note of any dampness on the floor surrounding the hot water heater. The typical life expectancy of a hot water heater tank is between 8 and 12 years. If the homeowner is approaching the end of this lifespan, it’s worth looking into replacing the tank before it can cause damage to the property.

Our team at Insurance Risk Services has been partnering with insurance carriers for more than 35 years to provide thorough residential and commercial property inspections. When we meet with an insured to conduct a property inspection, we represent the insurance carrier. Therefore, from the insured’s perspective, we are the face of your company. Our experience and professionalism allows us to help you put your best foot forward to strengthen relationships and minimize risk.

Contact us at Insurance Risk Services to learn more about how we can help you add value through a residential inspection.