What Is a 4-Point Inspection?

A 4-point home inspection is an analysis of the well-being of your home. It’s known as a 4-point inspection because it examines four major systems: roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.

Many insurance companies require it before you can get or maintain home insurance coverage. The inspection is a chance for the insurer to get an opinion from an unbiased professional on a house’s condition. It helps the insurer to understand the risks of the real estate they’re insuring. 

Certain conditions in the home could be a future liability, and a 4-point inspection can alert the insurance company to potential problems. Many newer homes don’t require it. However, it can be necessary in older homes because they’re more likely to be in disrepair or have had repairs that may not meet building codes.

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What Does a 4-Point Inspection Cover?

A 4-point inspection covers the major components found in most homes:

• HVAC system: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning

• Electrical system: Electrical wiring and electrical panels

• Plumbing system: Hot water heater and existing water damage

• Roofing: Roof covering and roof shingles

A home inspector will visually examine your home’s structure and components to look for current or future problems and complete a 4-point inspection form. The report should include pictures of each system and the interior and exterior of your home.

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4-Point Inspection vs. Home Inspection

Keep in mind that a 4-point inspection is not the same as a full home inspection. Insurance underwriters and insurance companies use the information in a 4-point inspection when putting together an insurance policy, but it can leave out critical areas of the home. 

If you’re considering a home purchase, a full inspection can reveal potential concerns important to new homeowners:

• Appliances

• Structural integrity

• Site conditions

• Outlets

• Plumbing fixtures

• Toilet and sink operation

• Doors and windows 

• Insulation

A home inspection can help you decide whether to buy a particular house. But your insurance company doesn’t generally require all the extra information a home inspection includes.

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Do All Homes Require a 4-Point Inspection?

Not all homes require a 4-point insurance inspection. If you’re looking to buy an older home, you’re much more likely to need a 4-point inspection done before obtaining homeowners insurance.

Home inspection requirements vary from state to state. For instance, to get homeowners insurance in Florida, you need to have a 4-point inspection done. And some insurance companies can require an inspection before issuing an insurance policy regardless of your state. This is much more common in homes over 10 years old.

Call today to schedule your inspections.

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