The diode is not likely for inrush, but for freewheeling current on the COIL. Any switched current into an inductor needs some sort of snubber to limit high voltage spikes when the current is switched off.
A precharge resistor or similar circuit is usually needed when switching the CONTACTS, i.e. turning ON into a capacitive load.
A precharge resistor or similar circuit is usually needed when switching the CONTACTS, i.e. turning ON into a capacitive load.