A 4-point inspection is a limited evaluation of four major systems in a home:
- Roofing
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Heating and cooling
An insurance company may request this inspection when someone applies for homeowners insurance or renews coverage on an existing property. The inspection provides information about the visible condition of these systems and helps the insurance company evaluate the property.
What Does a 4-Point Inspection Cover?
During a 4-point inspection, the inspector examines the visible and readily accessible components of the home’s four major systems.
Roofing
The inspector may document the roof-covering material, approximate age, general condition, and visible evidence of damage or leakage.
Electrical
The inspection may include the electrical service, main panel, visible wiring, overcurrent protection, and other readily accessible electrical components.
Plumbing
The inspector may document visible water-supply and drain piping, the water heater, active leakage, and evidence of previous water damage.
Heating and Cooling
The inspection may identify the type and approximate age of the installed equipment and document its general condition at the time of the inspection.
The exact requirements can vary by insurance company. If your carrier has a required form, provide it to your inspection company before the appointment.
Is a 4-Point Inspection the Same as a Home Inspection?
No. A 4-point inspection is not the same as a general home inspection conducted under the ASHI Standard of Practice.
A general home inspection is a visual inspection of the home’s readily accessible systems and components. It provides a much broader evaluation of the property, including areas such as the structure, exterior, roof, plumbing, electrical system, heating and cooling systems, interior, insulation, and ventilation.
A 4-point inspection is limited to the four systems requested by the insurance company. It should not replace a general home inspection when purchasing a home.
Do Insurance Companies Require a 4-Point Inspection?
Not every insurance company requires one. Requirements may depend on:
- The insurance carrier
- The age and condition of the home
- The age of the roof and major systems
- The type of coverage requested
- The carrier’s underwriting guidelines
Before scheduling, ask your insurance agent whether an inspection is required and whether the carrier uses a specific form.
Can You Fail a 4-Point Inspection?
A home inspector does not pass or fail a property. The inspector documents the visible conditions observed at the time of the inspection.
The insurance company reviews the report and decides whether to:
- Approve coverage
- Request additional information
- Require repairs or further evaluation
- Modify the available coverage
- Decline coverage
The final insurance decision belongs to the insurance carrier—not the home inspector.
Can a General Home Inspection Report Be Used Instead?
Not necessarily. Even though a general home inspection is more comprehensive, the insurance company may require its own form, photographs, or specific documentation.
Ask your insurance agent exactly what is required before submitting a general home inspection report.
Schedule the Right Inspection
If your insurance company requests a 4-point inspection, obtain a copy of its required form before scheduling. This helps ensure that the inspector can provide the information requested by the carrier.
Inspecta-Homes has served homeowners, homebuyers, and real estate professionals throughout the Twin Cities since 1981. Call us at 651-641-0641 if you have questions about which inspection service is right for your property.
