Here are some answers to common questions about 4 point inspections and their purpose.
What is a 4 Point Inspection & Who is it For?
4 point inspections focus on key home structures and systems: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and roofing. These areas are the primary source of expensive home damage and insurance claims.
While they are informative, 4 point inspections are not the same as a whole home inspection, which is the type recommended before finalizing a home purchase.
Can’t I Just Get a Full Home Inspection Instead?
Due to the comprehensive nature of home inspection reports, most insurance companies do not want to sift through the details of a full home inspection report because much of the information is irrelevant for their purposes. However, the good news is that if you prefer to schedule a whole home inspection, we can generate a separate, 4 point inspection report for you to pass along to insurance representatives.
Otherwise, you can bypass the full inspection and schedule a shorter, 4 point inspection instead.
PRO TIP: Always ask an inspector if you have any questions about the final inspection report or if there are things you don’t understand. We’re here to help, and these reports are an invaluable asset for homeowners – helping you prioritize repair, replacement, and home maintenance needs.
Do I Have to Get One?
The only time you’re required to get a 4 point inspection is if a homeowner’s insurance carrier requests one to provide coverage – which is necessary for almost anyone using a lender to finance their purchase.
In most cases, if you’re interested in purchasing a home built 25 years ago or more, reputable insurance carriers want to see an inspection report before providing coverage. And, due to tightening insurance regulations here in Central Florida, you may need to schedule one if the home was built more than 15 years ago to determine the age of the roof (insurance companies won’t insure Florida roofs more than 15 years old).
However, there are times when it makes sense for homeowners to request a 4 point inspection, like when they’re shopping for a new insurance carrier or interested in reducing their homeowner’s insurance premiums.
Will it Save Me Money?
A 4 Point inspection can save you money in several ways, but that varies from insurer to insurer. That said, insurance companies are becoming increasingly reluctant to issue homeowner’s insurance without an inspection. This is especially true of older houses because they want to minimize risk.
There are a couple ways a 4 point inspection can save you money.
- It’s Paired with a Wind Mitigation Inspection
Insurance companies provide credits for homes in good shape and with wind/storm-specific protections in place. If you move forward with a full home inspection, we can provide both a 4 point and a wind mitigation inspection report from a single inspection. If your house “passes” both, you may save more on premiums. Over time, these savings pay for the inspection and then some. - To Guide Necessary Repairs/Maintneance
Scheduling a 4 point or wind mitigation inspection provides professional information about whether your home meets or exceeds the insurance carrier’s standards. If not, our inspection reports can serve as your “to-do” list. Once the repairs, replacements, or improvements are carried out by licensed construction professionals, proof of those repairs may lower premiums or allow you to shop around for more competitive rates.
Schedule a 4 Point Inspection With Super Inspection Pros
Is your insurance carrier asking for a 4 point inspection before they issue a policy? Schedule your inspection with Super Inspection Pros. We guarantee you’ll have an inspection date within three days of contacting us, and our accurate inspection report will be in your inbox within 24 hours of the inspection.
