What is a 4-Point Inspection?
A 4-point inspection is a specialized assessment conducted by a professional inspector to evaluate the condition of four critical systems in a home:
Electrical system
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system
Plumbing system
Roof
The primary goal of the inspection is to assess the safety, functionality, and any potential risks associated with these key areas to determine the property’s eligibility for homeowners insurance. Insurers use this information to make informed decisions about coverage options and premium rates. Homeowners’ insurance companies often require a 4-point inspection before allowing policy renewal or eligibility for certain coverage plans.
Note: A 4-point inspection is typically valid for one year.
Electrical System Assessment 💡🔌
The electrical system is a crucial part of the 4-point inspection, as it ensures that the property’s wiring and electrical components are safe and up to modern standards.
Electrical System Review:
Circuit Breakers: Preferred over fuses. Flag any presence of fuses.
Total Amps: Ensure the main panel provides 100 amps or more.
Hazard Identification:
Cloth Wiring or Knob and Tube Wiring: These should be flagged if present.
Branch Circuit Aluminum Wiring: This is not acceptable unless the connections are properly repaired and marked. Flag all such instances.
Any electrical hazards, regardless of whether they are marked as satisfactory, should be flagged to ensure the property meets safety standards.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) System Assessment 🌬❄️
The HVAC system is another critical component of the 4-point inspection, ensuring that the heating and cooling systems are functioning properly.
HVAC System Review:
Central AC: The presence of central air conditioning must be marked as YES.
Heating: Does not need to be marked as YES but should be reviewed.
Good Working Order: Ensure that the system is in "Good Working Order," marked as YES.
Hazard Identification:
Flag any hazards present in the HVAC system, such as malfunctioning parts or signs of damage.
A well-functioning HVAC system is essential for maintaining a comfortable and safe living environment.
Plumbing System Assessment 🪠👨🔧
The plumbing system inspection focuses on identifying any issues that could lead to water damage or other significant problems for the property.
Plumbing System Review:
Temperature Pressure Relief Valve: Must be marked as YES to ensure it is properly installed.
Water Heater Location: If the water heater is located inside the house and the pressure relief valve is not in place, flag this as a concern. If the water heater is located in the garage or outside the house, this may not be an issue.
Leak Indicators:
Flag any active or prior leaks that are marked YES during the inspection.
Unsatisfactory Marks:
Anything marked as unsatisfactory for further attention and review.
Types of Pipes:
Polybutylene Pipes: These are not accepted and should be flagged if present.
Identifying potential plumbing issues is essential for preventing costly water damage and ensuring the property is insurable.
Roof Assessment 🪜🏠
The roof is one of the most important components of the 4-point inspection, as its condition directly impacts the home’s ability to withstand weather and protect the interior.
Roof Review:
Covering Material and Age: Verify the type of material used for the roof and its current age. The roof must have a remaining useful life of at least 5 years to pass the inspection.
Date of Last Roofing Permit:
Ensure this section is filled out. If no date is provided for the last roofing permit, flag it as incomplete.
Overall Condition:
The roof must be in satisfactory condition to be eligible for coverage. Visible signs of damage, leaks, issues with the attic or decking, and interior ceiling problems will disqualify the roof from coverage.
Picture Requirements:
Check that the roof pictures provided are in color. If they are not, request color images from the client. If that’s not possible, reach out to the inspector for additional documentation.
Conclusion
A 4-point inspection is an essential part of determining a property’s eligibility for homeowners insurance, focusing on the key areas of the electrical system, HVAC, plumbing, and roof. Ensuring these systems are in good condition helps homeowners avoid potential risks and ensures the property qualifies for coverage. Remember, the inspection is typically valid for one year, and any flagged issues should be addressed promptly to maintain eligibility.
By understanding the requirements of the 4-point inspection, both agents and homeowners can better prepare for the process and ensure a smoother experience when applying for insurance.