Protect your home and your wallet—ensure your key systems are in top shape for insurance coverage.
Four Point Inspection
Insurance providers often require a Four-Point Inspection to assess the overall condition of four key systems in your home: roof, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing. This inspection helps insurers confirm that these systems are in safe, functional condition or have been properly updated before issuing or renewing a policy.
In addition to the standard state inspection form, many insurance underwriters have their own reporting requirements. If your agent has requested a Four-Point Inspection, it’s important to confirm any specific details they need, this helps avoid delays or report revisions that can cost you extra time and money.
If you have recently upgraded your roof, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems, an updated Four-Point Inspection may even help you qualify for lower insurance premiums.
At Top Tier Inspectors, LLC, we take care of the details for you. With your permission, we will coordinate directly with your insurance agent to ensure every requirement is met and all necessary photos and documentation are included, saving you time, effort, and stress.
Get peace of mind knowing the key systems of your home are properly documented and insurance ready.
Book Your Inspection and Let Us Handle the Rest!
Four Point Inspection Criteria
Roof
Home insurance companies typically require the roof to have a minimum of 3-5 years of life expectancy remaining. Any signs of water intrusion (active or past), deterioration of materials and repairs are also noted.
HVAC
The heating, ventilation and air conditioning system should be in good working condition, routinely maintained and have no signs of damage or deterioration to be insurable and receive the best premium.
Electrical
Outdated electrical panels, wiring, receptacles and any other potential safety hazards or improperly installed components can make your home more susceptible to fires.
Plumbing
Home insurance companies want to know if there are any signs of (active or past) leaks. Certain types of plumbing materials, such as corroded cast iron, polybutylene and clay may be considered red flags for insurers.
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Ensure that the inspector has access to the areas that will be examined. All utility panels and equipment should be clear of stored personal items.
Ensure that all the utilities servicing the home are turned on. The inspector will not manipulate shut-off valves.
Have deteriorated or damaged electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and roof components repaired or replaced prior to the inspector’s arrival.
Note specific existing conditions that you want to disclose to the inspector.
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Roofing: The roof covering, sheathing and framing are essential to your home’s safety, structural integrity, and energy efficiency. Elements that are commonly evaluated are the estimated remaining lifespan of the roof covering, visible damage or deterioration, present or past leaks, and any previous repairs and their condition.
HVAC System: Full functionality of the heating, cooling, and ventilation is accessed including inspection of devices along with temperature and humidity readings. The existing condition of the units, proper maintenance, signs of leaks, water damage, etc. will be noted. The age and life expectancy of the HVAC units will be reported.
Electrical System: The entire electrical system from the main service entrance outside the home to all service branches inside the home are evaluated to determine functionality, age, and note any safety concerns. Safety items the inspector will look for include aluminum branch wiring, fuse boxes, cloth and sheath wiring, double-tapped circuit breakers, and knob-and-tube wiring.
Plumbing System: The inspector will examine the plumbing system with focus on the pipe materials, age of the drainage and supply lines, signs of past or present water leaks, and the condition of the water heater. Common issues the inspectors report include are leaks, rusted fixtures and drains, cracked or loose toilets, and faulty or improperly installed sinks, tubs, and showers.
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A four-point inspection does not result in a pass or fail outcome. However, insurance companies may require certain repairs to be completed based on findings of the inspection in order to qualify for coverage. In some cases, insurers may allow a grace period, often around 30 days after the home purchase, to address items noted in the four-point inspection.
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A four-point inspection is typically valid for the life of the insurance policy issued by the insurance company unless the insurance underwriter requests an updated inspection, which is uncommon. However, if the home is sold, the insurance company may require a new four-point inspection, even if the seller has a previous report available.
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The duration can vary depending on the home’s age, size, and overall complexity. In most cases, a four-point inspection is completed within approximately one to one and a half hours.
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The inspection report will be sent to you within 24 hours of the completed inspection.
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In many cases, insurance companies require a “clean” four-point inspection report before issuing coverage. If the initial report identifies deficiencies and the seller completes the necessary repairs, an inspector must return to the property to confirm the repairs were properly completed. An updated four-point inspection report is then provided for submission to the insurance company.
*Please note that a trip charge applies for return visits to verify completion of repairs.