Home Insurance Inspection Checklist for North Carolina: What Carriers Look At

Yes. Most home insurance carriers in North Carolina conduct some form of inspection on new policies, though the type and depth vary by carrier and policy type. Common inspection types include an exterior drive-by inspection, a four-point inspection focusing on roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, and a full interior and exterior inspection for higher-value homes. Inspections typically occur within 30 to 90 days of the policy being issued. The carrier uses inspection results to confirm the home is insurable and the premium is accurate.

If an insurance inspection reveals conditions that make the home uninsurable or require a premium adjustment, the carrier will typically give you a notice of deficiency with a deadline to correct the issues. Common correctable issues include debris on the roof, deteriorating gutters, wood rot on trim, peeling paint, and overgrown vegetation touching the structure. Serious issues like an aging roof, active water leaks, knob-and-tube wiring, or structural problems may result in policy cancellation if not addressed. Your independent agent can help navigate the process.

A four-point inspection evaluates four key systems: the roof (age, condition, and material), electrical system (panel type, wiring condition), plumbing (materials, visible condition), and HVAC (age and condition of heating and cooling systems). This type of inspection is common for older homes and homes being re-shopped to new carriers. Each area is rated on condition, and carriers use the results to determine insurability and pricing.

Most North Carolina carriers become more restrictive when a roof is 15 to 20 years old. Some carriers will only insure older roofs on an actual cash value basis rather than replacement cost, which means you receive less in a claim. A few carriers will not write new policies on homes with roofs older than 15 to 20 years at all, depending on the roof material. Architectural shingles generally have a longer insurable lifespan than 3-tab shingles.

Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) Stab-Lok panels and Zinsco panels are known fire hazards and many North Carolina carriers will not insure homes with these panels or will require replacement before binding coverage. Aluminum branch wiring (distinct from aluminum service entrance wiring) is also a concern for many carriers. Knob-and-tube wiring, found in very old homes, is another common decline reason. If your home has any of these, ask your independent agent before you close.

Yes. If you are aware of deferred maintenance items, it is better to address them before your policy inspection than to receive a deficiency notice afterward. Key areas to address proactively include: cleaning gutters and removing debris from the roof surface, repairing wood rot on trim and siding, fixing peeling paint, cutting back tree limbs overhanging the roof, repairing or replacing damaged steps or decking, and fixing any visible water damage. Your independent agent can advise on what is most likely to flag in your area.