Homebuyer Insurance Check
Do not wait until closing week to learn the insurance number.
Insurance can change the monthly payment, escrow estimate, and even whether a lender is comfortable closing. Use this checklist before the deal feels final.
Before inspection ends
- Ask for roof age, roof material, and any prior roof claim documentation.
- Ask whether the home has coastal, wildfire, flood, hail, hurricane, or wind exposure.
- Get at least one insurance quote before relying on a mortgage estimate.
- Ask whether flood, earthquake, wind, wildfire, or water backup needs separate coverage.
Before choosing a quote
- Match dwelling coverage limits, not just premium.
- Compare all deductibles, including percentage hazard deductibles.
- Check roof settlement terms: replacement cost, actual cash value, cosmetic damage, and matching rules.
- Confirm loss-of-use, ordinance or law, water backup, and flood-adjacent exclusions.
Use the interactive buyer tool
The Homebuyer Reality Check gives a state-specific checklist based on roof age, hazard signal, and quote status.
After closing
When your first renewal arrives, compare the new premium, deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions. If something jumps, use RateReceipt to create an anonymous receipt and help your state tracker.