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
Insurance companies have become increasingly reluctant to issue Homeowner Insurance Policies on older homes (usually 20 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 and thru Citizens Insurance which meets the requirements of most insurance companies, which also needs 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(4point is not considered a home inspection)
A 4 point only focuses on the 4 elements and not as comprehensive as a home inspection report.
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 on a approved signed document. Before you pay for a home inspection you should research with your insurance company if they will need a four point inspection. Don't worry if you don't get a answer and or unsure we can always complete it for you.
Residential Inspection LLC can package a home inspection, 4point, wind mitigation and if needed a roof certification inspection to maximize your deductions towards the insurance premium.
We can also. do the Citizens 4 point inspection by itself.
