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What is a 4-Point Inspection?
What is a 4-Point Inspection?
In South West Florida, a 4-point inspection involves evaluating the four major systems in a home: Roof, HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical. This inspection is typically required by most Florida insurance companies for homes older than 25 years. It provides insurance underwriters with the necessary information to assess the potential risk of insuring your home.
Why Do Insurance Companies Require a 4-Point Inspection?
Why Do Insurance Companies Require a 4-Point Inspection?
Florida home insurance companies want to ensure that homes are well-maintained and that all major systems are in good working condition. They are concerned about pre-existing issues that could lead to system failures in the future, which might result in claims for damage to the home or its contents. By assessing these systems, insurance companies can better gauge the risk involved in providing coverage.
Each insurance carrier may have specific requirements for the 4-point inspection, so it’s important to check with your insurance agent before proceeding.
What Issues Can Cuase My Home to Fail a 4-Point Inseption?
What to Expect During a 4-Point Inspection
What to Expect During a 4-Point Inspection
A 4-point inspection evaluates the four major systems in a home. A licensed home inspector will examine these systems and complete a detailed form with photos to send to your insurance company. It is crucial that the inspector has access to all areas to perform a thorough inspection. Here’s an overview of the systems we will inspect and what you can expect:
Roof: The inspector will check the condition, age, and integrity of the roofing materials.
HVAC: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system will be assessed for functionality and maintenance.
Plumbing: The plumbing system will be inspected for leaks, materials used, and overall condition.
Electrical: The electrical system will be evaluated for safety, including the condition of the wiring, panels, and other components.
Roof
Roof
The roof is a crucial line of defense for the home. If the roof is in poor condition or has any issues, it increases the risk of failure during a storm, which can lead to severe damage to the home and its contents. The inspector will evaluate the roof for any signs of deterioration or damage, considering the average lifespan of the roofing material, its current condition, and age. A Roof Condition Certification Form (RCF) will be completed with photos for the insurance company.
HVAC System
HVAC System
Insurance carriers are concerned with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. They want to know the age and condition of the air handler and condensing unit to ensure there are no visible hazards and that the system is not near the end of its expected lifespan. The primary concern is the heat source; underwriters want to ensure the home has a built-in heat source and that no portable heaters are present.
Plumbing System
Plumbing System
Insurance carriers need to know the type, age, and current condition of the plumbing system to ensure there is a low risk of severe damage. Major water damage can occur if the plumbing system fails. The inspector will evaluate the type of plumbing and look for evidence of leaks or damage. Any issues found will need to be addressed by the homeowner to obtain insurance. The inspection will cover visible plumbing under sinks, behind the washer, and the water heater, with findings documented in the 4-point inspection report and necessary photos attached.
Electrical System
Electrical System
The electrical system is a primary concern for insurance companies because any hazards can pose significant risks to both the home and its occupants. During the inspection, the inspector will remove the electrical panel covering to examine the wiring, checking for issues like improper wiring, aluminum branch wiring, and double taps. They may also test outlets. It's important to note that certain electrical panel brands, such as Federal Pacific Electric (FPE), are not accepted by insurance companies.
Wind Watch
Inspections
FL License #
HI17413
HI17496
Location
1320 Rail Head Blvd Ste 5
Naples FL 34110
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