Top 5 Claims Against Home Inspectors
By: Stephanie Jaynes, Marketing Director at InspectorPro Insurance
80% of accusations against home inspectors are highly exaggerated and most have no merit.
Why it is so important to know what types of claims are most common so you can do your best to avoid them.
Of all the claims filed against home inspectors each year, these five allegations continue to be the most common.
Claim 1: Water
Burst pipes, leaky appliances, and poor planning are common culprits to water damage. To avoid such claims, consider using a moisture meter and an infrared camera to thoroughly examine common areas where water intrudes.
Claim 2: Roof
Roof penetrations, poor flashing, and clogged gutters frequently lead to roof damage claims. Looking for roof defects, wetness along attic framing members, and stains or swells on the ceiling can help you mitigate your risk.
Claim 3: Foundation
Foundation damage is easy to miss and easy to conceal. To spot foundation issues, call our cracks, inaccessible crawlspaces, and suspicious activity.
Claim 4: Mold
A possible health risk and a costly issue to fix, mold deters many homebuyers away from otherwise great finds. Since most mold claims get filed by home inspectors who don’t inspect for mold, be sure to set appropriate expectations regarding your inspection’s scope.
Claim 5: Plumbing
Plumbing claims often result from misidentification or leaks. To protect your business, define inspection limitations, know your pipes, and use infrared technology.
Read more about the top five claims, including real claims scenarios and risk management tips, here. You can even download our Top 5 Claims Infographic to keep the key points with you.
Even if you do everything right, you can still get a one of the top five claims. That’s why it’s essential to carry errors and omissions insurance (E&O) with the proper endorsements for defense and payout help. Contact your InspectorPro broker or submit an application with us to receive a quote at no obligation.
|