Insurance Inspector Checklist: Vacancy and Property Condition

I. Vacancy

1. Confirmation of Occupancy:

• Visual inspection: Does the property appear occupied (e.g., lights on, curtains drawn, furniture visible, mail in mailbox, recent landscaping)?

• Utility bills: Verify recent utility bills for the property (electricity, gas, water).

• Neighborhood inquiries: Speak to neighbors about any observations of occupancy.

• Check local records: Confirm if the property is listed as occupied with local authorities (e.g., county assessor).

• Review policy documents: Ensure policy accurately reflects current occupancy status.

2. Signs of Vacancy:

• Broken windows: Note any damaged windows, whether broken, boarded up, or covered with plastic.

• Unkept lawn: Identify unmaintained or overgrown landscaping.

• Absence of vehicles: Observe whether any vehicles are parked on the property or in the driveway.

• Missing house numbers: Check for signs that house numbers are missing or damaged.

• Trash/debris: Identify any accumulated trash, debris, or abandoned materials on the property.

3. Potential Hazards:

• Lack of security measures: Observe whether doors and windows are secure and any security systems are present.

• Damaged or broken infrastructure: Assess conditions of roof, siding, foundation, plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.

• Signs of vandalism or theft: Check for any evidence of vandalism or attempted entry (e.g., broken locks, forced entry marks).

II. Property Condition

1. Exterior:

• Roof: Examine the condition of the roof for leaks, missing shingles, or structural damage.

• Siding: Assess siding for wear and tear, cracks, and rot.

• Foundation: Check the foundation for signs of settling, cracking, or water damage.

• Porches/decks: Examine decks and porches for structural integrity, rot, or decay.

• Outbuildings/sheds: Evaluate any outbuildings for safety and maintenance issues.

2. Interior (if accessible):

• Overall condition: Observe for signs of moisture, mold, water damage, pest infestations, and general maintenance issues.

• Plumbing/Heating/Electrical systems: Visually check the condition of pipes, water heaters, heating systems, and electrical fixtures.

• Appliances: Observe the age and functionality of appliances present (e.g., refrigerator, stove, washer, dryer).

3. Other Concerns:

• Potential safety hazards: Document any hazardous conditions, such as faulty wiring, leaking pipes, unsafe stairs, or missing handrails.

• Presence of animals: Note any indication of animal presence, especially if it poses a potential hazard or violates policy terms.

• Any other relevant observations: Record any other details that may be important for risk assessment.

Important Considerations:

• Document all observations with detailed notes, photographs, and sketches if possible.

• Maintain professional decorum and respectful behavior when accessing the property.

• Respect homeowner privacy and avoid disturbing personal belongings.

• Adhere to any security procedures or guidelines provided by the insurance company.

• Report findings to the insurance company accurately and promptly.