4-Point Inspection
A 4-point home inspection in Florida is a specialized inspection that focuses on four critical areas of a residential property. It’s commonly required by insurance companies before they will issue or renew a homeowner's insurance policy, especially for older homes (typically 20+ years old).
The Four Key Components Inspected Are:
1. Roof
- Age, type, condition
- Any signs of leaks or damage
- Remaining useful life
2. Electrical System
- Panel brand/type (e.g., some like Federal Pacific are red flags)
- Wiring type (aluminum wiring is a concern)
- Overall condition and safety of the system
3. Plumbing System
- Pipe materials (e.g., copper, PVC, polybutylene)
- Any signs of leaks or corrosion
- Water heater age and condition
4. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)
- Type and age of the system
- Operational status
- Evidence of leaks or rust
What is the Purpose of a 4-Point Inspection?
Insurance companies want to minimize risk. These four systems are most likely to cause major damage if they fail (e.g., fires, floods, mold).
How is it different than a Full Home Inspection?
A 4-point inspection is not as comprehensive as a full home inspection. It doesn't assess the foundation, windows, doors, appliances, or insulation unless related to one of the four categories.