What to Look for When Buying a House to Avoid Unnecessary Insurance Claims

If you’re house hunting, you’re probably looking at many elements like the number of bedrooms or how updated the kitchen is. Don’t forget to check for these things too, which which may help avoid home insurance claims should you become the new owner.


An Aging Roof


Roof problems are one of the most common causes of home insurance claims. Serious roof damage often doesn’t just involve the roof itself; it can cause interior damage, especially from leaking water. You don’t want to purchase a home that has an old or faulty roof without getting an adjustment to the price to cover the cost of replacing it.


Poor Chimney Condition


While you’re having the roof inspected, be sure to have a look at the chimney too. Poor chimney and firebox construction or even a dirty chimney can result in a fire.


Faulty Wiring or an Outdated Electrical Panel


Of course, bad wiring or a faulty electrical panel presents an even greater risk of fire. Signs that an electrician might be needed include:

  • An old electrical panel (especially a model that has been recalled)
  • Signs of electrical panel failure, like charring or melting
  • An electrical panel and circuitry that’s not sufficient for modern electrical demands
  • Overloaded circuits (too many items on one circuit)
  • Not enough electrical outlets
  • No GFI outlets in the kitchen and bathrooms
  • Flickering lights
  • Lights or outlet use that constantly trips the circuit breaker
  • Charring, melting, or loose parts around outlets and switches


Plumbing Problems


Water damage is another common source of home insurance claims. Unless you plan to make major repairs, never buy a house that has plumbing problems. Not only could water damage create an insurance hassle for you or even force you out of your home temporarily, but it could also ruin precious, irreplaceable belongings.


Previous Water Damage


One key to the risk of water damage is signs of previous incidents. Check carefully for mold or mildew in the basement, foundation cracks, standing water outside close to the house, warped floorboards and under-sink spaces, poor sink drainage, and brown spots on the ceiling or upper walls (could also be from a leaky roof).


High Radon Levels


Radon is an invisible, radioactive gas that exists naturally below the earth’s surface. If it seeps into your home, it can cause breathing difficulties or even lung cancer. You can purchase inexpensive radon detection kits to monitor radon levels before making a home purchase.


Liability Risks


Most folks are concerned with their own health when purchasing a home. But they should also think about risks to others, like visiting friends or delivery people. These liabilities could result in a lawsuit if someone is seriously injured:

  • Loose steps
  • Tripping hazards
  • Absent or inadequate handrails
  • Lack of fencing around a swimming pool
  • Low, weak, or absent railings around decks and balconies
  • Poor fencing for dogs in the yard


History of Previous Claims


If possible, do your due diligence and find out if a home’s occupants have filed insurance claims in the past. You might find out that what you thought was your dream home is actually uninsurable. Sellers should disclose insurance claim information, but you also may be able to order a report online.



When you do find the home that’s right for you, you’ll want to be certain to insure it properly. The independent agents at The Cusmano Agency offer a wide selection of home insurance options. We can also assist with extra protection like auto insurance, life insurance, and personal umbrella insurance. Contact us at 203-394-6645 to learn more, or request a quote online.


By Chris Uzzo June 5, 2026
Starting and growing a family comes with many exciting milestones, but it also brings new responsibilities and financial risks. Between busy schedules, growing expenses, and changing priorities, insurance coverage is often overlooked. Unfortunately, small gaps in coverage can create major problems when the unexpected happens. Keeping the Same Coverage for Too Long Many young families continue using the same insurance policies they had before getting married, buying a home, or having children. As life changes, insurance needs often change as well. Coverage that worked a few years ago may no longer provide enough protection today. Underinsuring Personal Property Families tend to accumulate furniture, electronics, appliances, toys, and other belongings quickly. Many people underestimate the total value of their personal property until they experience a major loss. Creating a home inventory can make it easier to understand how much coverage may be needed. Choosing Coverage Based Only on Price It is natural to want affordable insurance, especially with the expenses that come with raising children. However, choosing the lowest-priced policy without understanding the coverage can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket costs later. Deductibles, liability limits, exclusions, and coverage options all matter. Not Updating Beneficiaries Life insurance and other financial accounts often require beneficiary updates after major life events such as marriage or the birth of a child. Forgetting to review this information can create complications later and may not reflect your current wishes. Many young families delay purchasing life insurance because they assume it is too expensive or unnecessary. In reality, life insurance can help provide financial stability for a spouse or children if something unexpected happens. Policies are often more affordable when purchased at a younger age. Ignoring Liability Protection  As families grow, liability risks can increase as well. Owning a home, hosting guests, having pets, or adding teenage drivers can all increase exposure to liability claims. Reviewing liability limits and discussing umbrella insurance may be worthwhile for some families. Forgetting to Review Coverage Regularly Insurance should not be treated as a one-time purchase. Families often experience changes in vehicles, income, home value, and lifestyle over time. Regular policy reviews can help identify gaps and ensure coverage continues to match current needs. Insurance may not always be top of mind during busy stages of life, but having the right coverage in place can help provide peace of mind and financial protection for your family. Taking a little time to review your policies now can help prevent larger problems later. Contact us today to review your insurance coverage and make sure your family is properly protected.
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