Hurricane Helene has swept throughout the Southeast, leaving a trail of damage and prompting the need for disaster inspections. For property inspectors, this situation presents a significant opportunity to earn $25 per inspection by evaluating affected properties and documenting the state of homeowners’ insurance coverage, structural condition, and overall property integrity. These inspections are provided to insurance adjusters in order to provide accurate claims filings. For those wishing to develop their own pools of addresses, it is first come, first served. Later this month there will be targeted address lists available.
For Hurricane Helene inspections, there are specific requirements that must be followed to ensure compliance and thoroughness. The inspection involves documenting the homeowner’s insurance information, taking detailed interior and exterior photos, and ensuring that all visual data is complete and properly labeled.
Here’s what’s expected:
Homeowner’s Insurance Declaration Page
You will need to photograph the homeowner’s declaration page of their insurance policy. Ensure the photo clearly shows all policy details, including the insurance company’s name, the policyholder’s information, and coverage limits. This step is essential to verify that the homeowner has active insurance and to confirm coverage details related to storm damage.
Exterior Photos
Take comprehensive photos of the entire property exterior, including the front, sides, and rear of the house. Make sure to get clear shots of the roof from different angles to document any potential damage such as missing shingles, leaks, or holes. Capture images of the mailbox with the property address visible and/or any other address markers to confirm the location.
Interior Photos
Each room inside the property needs to be documented. This includes living areas, bedrooms, dining rooms, and hallways. Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms, as these areas often contain plumbing elements susceptible to hidden damage. Make sure to get close-up photos under sinks, around baseboards, and in corners where water damage may be less obvious.
Mechanical Systems and Utilities
Photograph HVAC systems, water heaters, fuse boxes, and other mechanical components to show their condition, post-storm. Include utility meters (gas, electric, and water) to capture whether services are still active and to document any visible damage.
Additional Points of Interest
If there are outbuildings, fences, pools, or garages, be sure to photograph these as well. Take note of any downed trees, broken fences, or other major exterior issues that could be relevant for insurance purposes.
Roof and Attic Documentation
If accessible, photograph the attic and any roofing structure damage visible from inside. Ensure that roof inspections capture the entire surface area, looking for signs of uplift, punctures, or water entry points.
Payment and Reporting
Each completed inspection pays $25. Payment is typically processed within 15 days of report submission, assuming that all required documentation and images are complete and meet quality standards. All reports should be submitted through the specified platform, with clear file labeling and organization for ease of review.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re interested in taking on these inspections, ensure that you’re registered with the appropriate inspection platform, have your gear ready, and are prepared to be contacted on short notice. Hurricane recovery is a fast-moving field, and the sooner you can get started, the more opportunities you’ll have to complete inspections and help homeowners navigate their next steps.
