Four-Point Inspections

Get Your Four-Point Inspection In Florida

A Four Point Inspection is typically required by your insurance company based on the age of your home.

What is a four-point inspection?

A Four Point Inspection is a visual inspection of the Four Major Components of your home:

  • Roof

  • Electrical

  • HVAC

  • Plumbing

Your insurance carrier wants to know the age and condition of the Four major and most costly components of your home before they offer your coverage.

Some insurance carriers require the Four Point Inspection on homes 10 years old so it’s always best to check with your insurance agent to see if one is needed when purchasing a home or obtaining homeowners insurance from a new carrier.

When Is A Four-Point Inspection Required?

A Four Point Inspection is typically required by insurance companies when providing coverage for an older home or for specific types of policies. It focuses on four main areas of the home that are considered crucial for insurance underwriting.

A Four-Point Inspection provides insurance companies with a snapshot of the home's condition in these critical areas. It helps them assess the risk associated with providing coverage for the property, especially in older homes where these components may be more prone to wear and tear.

What Is Included In The Four Point Inspection?

As mentioned, the four-point inspection looks at the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Let’s look into each section a little bit more to see how you can better prepare for the inspection and pass the four-point inspection.

PLUMBING

The plumbing system, including the supply lines, drains, and fixtures, is inspected for any leaks, corrosion, or signs of plumbing issues. Insurance companies are concerned about potential water damage and want to ensure that the plumbing is in good working order.

Here are some common issues that appear on the plumbing section:

  • Polybutylene Piping

  • Improper TPR Discharge Tube

  • Water Heater Age

  • Improper Traps

  • Any Water Leaks

Electrical

For the electrical system, the inspector will note any repairs, the type of wiring/panel, the age, the condition, and any safety hazards.

We have blogged about a few different electrical-specific issues that could arise. If you have any of the following you can expect to have to complete repairs:

  • Federal Pacific Electrical Panels

  • Challenger Electrical Panels

  • Sylvania Zinsco Electrical Panels

  • Cloth Wiring

  • Double Tapped Breakers

  • Knob & Tube Wiring

  • Two-Prong Outlets

  • Fuse Boxes

  • Aluminum Wiring

  • Neutrals & Grounds On The Same Bar in Subpanels

HVAC

The inspection evaluates the heating and cooling systems, including the furnace, air conditioning units, and ventilation. The age, condition, and functionality of these systems are considered important factors for insurance coverage.

ROOF

The condition and age of the roof are assessed, including the type of roofing material, any visible damage, and the estimated remaining lifespan. Insurance companies want to ensure that the roof is in good condition to prevent potential water damage and other issues.

The insurance underwriters typically want 5 years of life left on your roof.

If you have any of the following, it could affect your home insurance. So you might need to perform repairs before you can obtain insurance.

  • Excessive granule loss

  • Loose Shingles

  • Lifting Shingles

  • Cracked Tiles

  • Missing Tiles/Shingles

  • Damaged Tiles/Shingles

  • Missing fasteners

  • Roof Leaks

  • Previous unprofessional repairs

How To Pass A Four-Point Inspection

A four-point inspection is not a pass/fail. The inspection only notes what is at the home. Then, it is up to the individual underwriters to say what is and what is not allowed.

Some insurance underwriters can provide home insurance for 30 days while some items are fixed. Additionally, some underwriters will be okay with items in your home for a higher premium.

Ultimately, passing a four-point inspection is case by case and depends on the insurance company, not the home inspector.