Inspection Deadlines

Overview

Inspections must be scheduled promptly after notice of loss, with reasonable accommodations for the policyholder. Delays in inspection prolong the entire claim and can violate prompt-handling statutes.

Key Rules & Requirements

• Prompt scheduling: Many states require inspection or meaningful contact within a set period after acknowledgment.
• Qualified personnel: Inspections should be conducted by trained adjusters; specialists (engineers, hygienists) should be engaged when needed.
• Reinspection rights: New damage discovered during repairs should trigger reinspection upon request.
• Access coordination: Carriers must provide reasonable notice and respect availability; emergency conditions require expedited visits.
• Documentation: Inspectors should photograph and note observations; reports relied upon should be shared when deciding the claim.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Request inspection scheduling in the acknowledgment stage and provide availability windows.
2. Have your contractor or representative attend to discuss scope and hidden damage concerns.
3. Ask inspectors to note all affected rooms/areas and to test for hidden moisture or structural impacts.
4. If findings are incomplete, request a reinspection or specialist evaluation.
5. After inspection, request the photos and notes used to prepare the estimate.

Required Documentation

• Inspection appointment confirmations and calendars.
• Photos/videos you captured alongside the adjuster.
• Contractor/engineer reports that supplement the carrier’s inspection.
• Requests for reinspection and any responses.

Common Insurer Tactics

• Scheduling delays to push back all other timelines.
• Short, surface-level inspections that miss hidden damage.
• Denying reinspection even when new evidence exists.
• Relying on vendor reports without sharing them.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Inspection occurs but no estimate or photos are shared for weeks.
• Inspector refuses to enter certain areas or attics/crawlspaces.
• No moisture or material testing after water exposure.
• Denial references an unseen report.

Best Practices for Policyholders

• Be present and take your own photos; note statements made during inspection.
• Invite your contractor to ensure scope is complete.
• Request reinspection in writing when new damage appears.
• Ask for all inspection photos/reports used to form the estimate.
• Escalate if inspection delays violate state prompt-handling rules.

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