These days everything seems to be accomplished online.

Obtaining home insurance is often no different, as millions go online to find coverage every day. Still, there are reasons for speaking to an insurance professional when looking for homeowners insurance due to the complexities and myriad of coverage options.

As we have discussed, not having the proper insurance can provide a rude awakening should you ever suffer a catastrophic event.

Our online mindset may cause Port Charlotte area residents to be surprised when their prospective insurance company asks to come to their home to do an inspection.

Why would an insurance company need to come onsite – and are you required to let them on your property?

It is essential to understand that an insurance company representative may not appear at your home unannounced, or come onto your property anytime they please. They may, however, request to inspect your property before issuing a policy or while investigating a claim.

Before Issuing a Policy

In some circumstances, looking at the home from the outside or consulting tax records doesn’t tell the insurance company everything they need to know. Before issuing a policy, they may wish to see the condition of the home or any stated (but unseen) upgrades or renovations.

Physically laying eyes on a property is often the only way the insurance company can adequately ascertain the correct replacement value.

One item which comes into play often during home sales is the roof condition. Because the roof integrity is such a critical element of the home’s structure, an onsite roof inspection, the insurance company may send a representative or may accept certification from a licensed and insured roofer.

After Filing a Claim

Your insurance provider will typically send an appraiser to assess damages as reported, whether for home or auto insurance. The appraiser will evaluate the extent of the damage and decide if the claim is valid and eligible for coverage payment.

In both situations, the insurance company will call you to set up an appointment. Just like anyone else, they are not allowed on your property without your permission. At a scheduled time, an appraiser will come out to your home, inspect the damage, and discuss the coverage with you.

Keep in mind that it is perfectly legal for an insurance company representative to stand on the sidewalk or street and assess the home from that vantage point at any time.

Can I Refuse The Insurance Company Entry?

It is always your prerogative to refuse an insurance inspection request, but that decision is likely to work against a successful outcome.

Most insurance policies include a clause that requires the “duty of the insured to cooperate.” This means that if you refuse to cooperate with an insurance company doing its due diligence, your claim may be delayed or denied altogether. When applying for a new insurance policy, you are unlikely to get the coverage approved if a home inspection is requested and denied.

Working with a personal insurance broker goes a long way to understanding the policy requirements. Not only are they professionals who can guide you into the right coverage for your needs, but they can explain every step of the process so that you are not surprised or caught off guard.

Ezzi Insurance Advisors are committed to being a homeowner’s ally, from the procurement of coverage to the payment of a claim. Call today to learn more about how being an educated insurance consumer can make all the difference when trouble comes.