Am I required to be present when an adjuster conducts their home inspection?

If the claim being inspected is on the exterior of the home, such as a sinkhole, or storm damage to a fence or other structure, then your presence is not necessarily required. On the other hand, you will not be able to negotiate the claim with the adjuster, and that could have a negative impact on your settlement.

If the damage being inspected is inside the home, you or another personal representative needs to be available. At the very least, you need to have someone there who can let the adjuster in and show them the damages, but the best option is for you or someone who can speak on your behalf is present. That way, the adjuster can ask questions to help determine details of the claim.

It is not uncommon for an insurance adjuster to make a settlement offer on the spot. If getting your home repaired as quickly as possible is your goal, it would be in your best interests to be the when the adjuster arrives. That way, if the adjuster offers to write you a check and you agree with the offer, you can accept immediately. If you disagree with the offer, you have the right to attempt a negotiation, perhaps by offering information that helps back up your claim, and you can refuse the offer completely if you would rather take the case back to the insurance company.

Before the adjuster arrives, make sure that you have an accessible path for him to get to the area related to the claim. If it is necessary, make emergency repairs immediately after the damage is found, and save your receipts. Materials and labor for emergency repairs can be claimed along with the actual repairs, and the adjuster may be able to reimburse you on the spot if you have the appropriate documentation.