What to Expect from your Residential ICAT Inspection

Thank you for choosing ICAT!

In order to fully be able to deliver on the promise to protect our policyholders in the event of a catastrophe, we believe it’s important to inspect the properties we insure. An inspection from ICAT or a partner inspection company will be sent to conduct an onsite inspection within 30 days after the policy is issued.

Frequently Asked Questions About Inspections

How do I know if my home will be inspected?

All properties written with our ICAT Homeowners product will have an exterior inspection completed. Properties older than 20 years of age or high-value homes will have an internal inspection completed to closely examine the plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and roof systems.

Will I need to be present during the inspection?

Our inspector will attempt to call you to schedule a date; however, if we cannot get ahold of you, we will choose a date for the inspection. When the inspector arrives, they will knock on your door and present credentials before inspecting the exterior of the home only. If you are not home, a door tag will be left advising that the inspection was completed.

What if I live in a gated community?

If you live in a gated community, we will ask that you let the appropriate party know that you will have an inspector that will need access on a specific day.

What if my home is occupied by a tenant?

You will need to provide the tenant adequate notice of the inspection.

What are we looking for during the inspection?

Address verification

Year built

Number of stories

Square footage

Construction type

Building condition and roof condition

Roof covering and shape

Foundation type

Additional structures on the property (Hawaii)

Download our Inspections Guides for Hawaii Hurricane, California Earthquake or ICAT Homeowners.

 

 

 

Risk Mitigation Tips for Homeowners

Wind/ Hurricane Mitigation Tips

Severe wind can occur as part of a natural hazard such as a hurricane, or on its own. Severe wind poses a threat to property and life due to the effects of flying debris.

• Some roofs are more susceptible to high wind than others. A roofing contractor can tell you whether your roof needs added bracing to reinforce it.
• Consider having a roofing contractor install hurricane straps to your roof. Hurricane straps will help your roof stay firmly attached during a strong wind event.
• Consider having a contractor reinforce garage doors to prevent failure under strong winds.
• Maintain your property regularly by removing loose debris like roof shingles, tree branches, furniture, etc. before a storm.
• Have comprehensive wind or hurricane insurance in place to cover your property in case of a storm.

Earthquake Mitigation Tips

An earthquake is sudden movement of the earth’s crust that causes violent shaking. The ground shaking can cause property damage and structural failure. Earthquakes can also trigger landslides and soil liquefaction.

• Adopt all building codes that works to diminish earthquake damage to the property and loss of life.
• Retrofit your home if it is at risk of earthquake damage.
• Brace and bolt heavy furniture and appliances to the wall including water heaters, large armoires, etc
• Anchor any appliances on the roof including HVAC systems and satellite dishes.
• Ask your insurance agent for a quote for earthquake insurance to protect your home and your assets when the worst happens.

Read the full blog on Risk Mitigation for Homeowners.

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