Four-Point Inspection
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A four-point Inspection is often required when obtaining a new homeowners insurance policy or renewing an existing policy. This 4-point insurance inspection includes a limited scope evaluation of the following four systems:
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The inspection and report describes the condition and age of these elements.
The focus of the inspection is to determine the approximate age, components, and general condition of these systems. Note: this type of insurance inspection should not be confused with a "standard home inspection" which is more comprehensive in regards to both detail and scope.
The Insurance company will typically require that the inspections be performed by suitably licensed and qualified persons. All of our 4-point inspections are performed by a Florida State licensed and ICC (International Code Council) Certified Residential Building, Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical Code Inspector, therefore we are able to provide the various insurance required inspections.
Of course, there are many insurance companies and inspection requirements can vary and change at any time. You should consult with your insurance provider concerning any specific requirements. See inspector licenses and qualifications below.
Note: sometimes all that is required by the insurance company is the evaluation of a specific system of the house, such as the roof, electrical system, or a limited combination of systems. Partial inspection services are available. Setup your Inspection Appointment Online Now
4 Point Insurance inspections Q&A
Why do I need a four point inspection?
Insurance companies have become increasingly reluctant to issue Homeowner Insurance Policies on older homes (usually 25 years old or more).
Their common concern is that there may be conditions in an older home that could become a liability to them. For instance; a home with a roof nearing the end of its reliable service life may fail while under the policy and the homeowner may seek reimbursement from their insurance company for damages to the home or its contents. Similar concerns extend to the condition of the HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems in an older home. If these elements are in poor condition, in need of being updated or replaced or were improperly installed, they may fail and cause fire or water damage to a home.
Newer homes are assumed (by the insurance companies) to not have these problems as frequently as older homes.
My insurance company requested a 4 Point Inspection. What is Four Point Inspection?
After Hurricane Andrew, Insurance companies in Florida have been trying to encourage home owners to make their homes safer and reduce claims. Many insurance companies and JUA (Joint Underwriting Association) now Citizens request 4 point inspections, which often include, but not limited to: (1) Roof inspection, (2) Electrical Inspection, (3) HVAC (Heat, Ventilation & Air Conditioning ), (4) Plumbing.
What are they looking for in these reports?
As much as we really don't know what any insurance company needs or wants, this is our interpretation through experience only. They are generally looking for most systems in the 4 points to have been updated to current standards and are in good condition.
Is there a standard form to fill out?
There is no industry wide standard form for a Four Point Inspection. Some insurance companies provide their own forms; however, most insurance companies will accept forms from companies that perform home inspections provided that they are filled out by qualified individuals. Miami-Dade Home Inspections has developed a form that meets the requirements of most insurance companies in South Florida. They are signed by a licensed Professional Engineer.
Some insurance companies like Citizens and others have forms that may be used for at least one of the four points (Electrical). In this particular form they have asked about the age, type and certain elements of the electrical system, which may have high claim ratios.
To see a sample of our four point inspection report click here: http://www.miaminspect.com/files/four_point_report.pdf
You can copy this sample report and email it to your insurance company to see if it will satisfy their requirements. All inspection reports from Miami-Dade Home Inspections are PDF files that can be easily distributed over the internet.
Who can perform this type of inspection? Can I fill out the form myself?
Insurance companies want these forms filled out by certain qualified individuals such as a licensed Professional Engineer, Electrician, General or Roofing Contractor.
Costs. Coordinating all these Trades Professionals for a 4 point inspection sounds costly and lengthy.
Miami-Dade Home Inspections has developed relationships with trades people who are in tune with these systems. We have also streamlined forms to satisfy most interests of insurance companies quickly and cost effectively.
I am buying a home. Can I use this as a less expensive pre-purchase inspection?
No. This type of inspection is not intended for use as a pre-sale or pre-purchase comprehensive inspection. As it is geared for your insurance needs, It will not contain the type of information you may need to make an informed decision for purchase.
Guarantees. Who can Guarantee the forms enable me to be approved for insurance?
NONE! Please be clear that Miami-Dade Home Inspections is not employed by Insurance companies, and cannot guarantee any aspect of the inspection, including but not limited to: INSURABILITY, UNDERWRITING, NEED FOR ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATION OR INSPECTIONS SUBSEQUENT TO INITIAL INSPECTION, WORK TO BE PERFORMED FOLLOWING INSPECTION, etc.
More info about inspector qualifications and our services.
Call 1-866-312-2359 or set online.
