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What's A Four-Point Home Inspection?

14 June 2023 by Roy Morris

Is it time to renew your home insurance? Depending on where you live and the age of your home, you may be required to get a four-point home inspection before you re-up your coverage. Four-point inspections are also useful when a homeowner is thinking of selling. Passing the inspection and having that report at hand can make a property infinitely more attractive to would-be buyers who are worried about your property's age. 

A four-point home inspection focuses on the following four main areas of your home:

1. The roof
2. The electrical system
3. The plumbing
4. The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system 

This is much more limited (and less expensive) than a full home inspection because it hones in on just these critical areas.

What's the Point of a Four-Point Home Inspection?

The purpose of a four-point home inspection is to assess the condition and functionality of these critical systems, as they are areas that can pose significant risks or result in costly insurance claims if they are outdated or in disrepair. Insurance companies often request this inspection for homes that are 30 years or older, as older homes are considered to have a higher likelihood of issues in these key areas.

Here's a breakdown of what is typically examined in a four-point home inspection:

1. Roof: The inspector will assess the roof's age, condition, and any signs of damage or leaks. They will check for missing or damaged shingles, signs of sagging, or structural issues, and evaluate the overall integrity of the roofing system.

2. Electrical System: The electrical inspection focuses on the main electrical panel, wiring, and electrical fixtures within the home. The inspector will check for outdated or unsafe electrical components, such as old wiring, inadequate grounding, faulty breakers, or overloaded circuits.

3. Plumbing System: The plumbing inspection involves evaluating the condition of the plumbing pipes, fixtures, and water supply systems. The inspector will check for leaks, corrosion, and outdated piping materials (such as galvanized steel), and assess its overall functionality.

4. HVAC System: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system inspection includes examining the age, condition, and proper functioning of the HVAC equipment. The inspector will check the heating and cooling systems, inspect ductwork, and ensure that the system is adequately sized for the home. 

It's important to note that a four-point home inspection is more limited in scope compared to a comprehensive home inspection — but they can clue you in on potential problems before they lead to a disaster and show you where repairs or replacements are needed. That makes them well worth the price. 

Contact an inspector today to learn more about home inspection services.

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