What is a 4-Point Inspection?
A 4-point inspection is sometimes necessary when purchasing a home. It is an assessment of your property and its major systems. An inspection is important when you’re buying a house or if you’re applying for a homeowners insurance policy. Many insurers require a 4-point inspection before they provide insurance coverage, especially on older homes.
Aspects of a 4-Point Inspection
Your 4-point inspection will cover the four main systems of the home. The inspector will look at the following:
- HVAC. Your inspection will include a review of the heating and air conditioning system. The HVAC system will be inspected to make sure it is fully functional and safe to use.
- Electrical System. The 4-point inspection includes checking the electrical wiring and circuit panels around the home. The electrical features are inspected to verify they are safe and functioning as expected. The inspector may also note the age and type of wiring.
- Plumbing System. Your home’s water heater, plumbing connections, and fixtures will be inspected to ensure they are functional and safe to use. The inspector will determine the type of plumbing pipes and estimate the age of the system.
- Roof. The review also includes checking your roof, its underlying structure, the covering, and other components like flashing. The inspection will note if your roof is in good condition or if it is failing and reaching the end of its lifespan.
What Can You Do if You Fail the Inspection?
If your property fails the review, the insurance company will often give you one to two months to fix the problems with the home. The inspector will explain the inspection report and the issues he or she discovered. When a home has faulty or dated systems, an insurance provider will likely charge more for coverage if they choose to move ahead with a policy.
What Isn’t Inspected During a 4-Point Inspection?
A 4-point inspection will not assess every aspect of a building. Order a full inspection when purchasing a home or if you have concerns about other features of the property, including:
- the property’s structural integrity
- insulation in your home
- doors and windows
- grading and drainage concerns on the property
Request a 4-point inspection if it’s required by your homeowners insurance company. The inspection report will document the condition of systems and components and note any needed updates or repairs.
Jamie Schaefer Professional Home Inspector offers inspections to the New York Metropolitan area and Ocala, Florida. Contact us to request our services.