4 Point Inspection
A “Four Point Inspection” focuses only on four main areas of interest in a home:
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)
- Electrical wiring and panels
- Plumbing connections and fixtures
- Roof
Why do I need a four point inspection? Insurance companies have become increasingly reluctant to issue Homeowner Insurance Policies on older homes (usually 25 years old or more).
Their common concern is that there may be conditions in an older home that could become a liability to them. For instance; a home with a roof nearing the end of its reliable service life may fail while under the policy and the homeowner may seek reimbursement from their insurance company for damages to the home or its contents. Similar concerns extend to the condition of the HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems in an older home. If these elements are in poor condition, in need of being updated or replaced, or were improperly installed, they may fail and cause fire or water damage to a home.
Newer homes are assumed (by the insurance companies) to not have these problems as frequently as older homes.
Is there a standard form to fill out? There is no industry wide standard form for a Four Point Inspection. Some insurance companies provide their own forms; however, most insurance companies will accept forms from companies that perform home inspections provided that they are filled out by qualified individuals. Residential Inspection uses a form approved by the insurance companies through InterNachi which meets the requirements of most insurance companies, which need to be signed by a licensed insured professional qualified to complete the 4 point form.
A 4 point inspection should not be done instead of a thorough home inspection from Residential Inspection. A 4 point only focuses on the 4 elements and not as comprehensive as a home inspection report.
Questions/Answers;
Can I fill out the form myself? Insurance companies want these forms filled out by certain qualified individuals such as a licensed Professional Engineer, Electrician, General or Roofing Contractor, and a licensed qualified Home Inspector.
I had a home inspection before I purchased the home. Can I use that report instead of getting a Four Point Inspection Report? The insurance companies do not want large reports that contain other information. They want only specific information about the HVAC, plumbing, electrical system and roof in a short one or two page signed document. Before you pay for a home inspection you should research with your insurance company if they will require a Four Point Inspection Report. You can end up paying twice for much of the same service and information gathering. Residential Inspection can package a home inspection,4point, wind mitigation and pools and spa inspection to maximize your deductions towards the insurance premium.
You can also purchase a 4 point inspection by itself.
If you are dealing with a insurance company ask them if they have a specific form for the 4 point inspection we will be happy to use there form to perform the inspection .Our software will create and complete the 4 point inspection which can be used to give to your insurance company should they not accept it we will complete there form based on the inspection performed.
4 POINT Inspection what is Inspected;
ROOF - Materials, Condition of the Roof Coverings, Flashing's, Chimneys, Gutters, Downspouts, Vents, Trim, Skylight, Chimney & other Roof Penetrations.
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING - General Condition and Operation of the Visible Portion of the Furnace and Air Conditioning Units, Duct Work, Thermostat, Air Filter and Fireplace Damper Door & Hearth.
ELECTRICAL - General Condition of the Electrical Service, Electrical Panels, Breakers & Fuses, Grounding & Bonding, GFCIs, Electrical Service Line, Meter Box, Main Disconnect, Service Amperage, Random Testing of Switches & Outlets, Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans.
PLUMBING - General Condition and Operation of the Plumbing System, All Visible Supply Piping and Drains, Main Water Shut Off Valves, Water Heating System, Interior Plumbing Fixtures & Faucets, and Drainage Sump Pumps with Accessible Floats.