When purchasing a home, your homeowners insurance company may require you to have a 4 point inspection before they’ll insure your home. These requests are common, especially if you’re buying a house that was built over 40 years ago. A 4 point inspection isn’t as thorough as a full home inspection, but it includes some of the most important components.
The HVAC System is Included in a 4 Point Inspection
A new HVAC system can cost tens of thousands of dollars, so a company writing an insurance policy for your home wants a report on its condition. Also, the conditioned air and ventilation that this system provides help prevent mold growth in the home. For this reason, some companies won’t insure a home without a working HVAC system.
Roof
The roof’s condition is critical because it affects everything beneath it. If the roof leaks, it will cause water damage to the attic, ceilings, walls, and support beams. Excess water and moisture also lead to mold growth. Because the roof protects so many other materials and systems, the insurance provider wants to verify that the roof is sound and without significant issues.
Plumbing
A faulty plumbing system is one of the most common causes of flooding and water damage. The insurance company wants to know what type of plumbing pipes are in the home and what condition they are in. For instance, polybutylene piping that was commonly used throughout the 80s and 90s is susceptible to bursting. Insurance companies may deny coverage or omit water damage coverage upon finding out that the pipes are made from this material.
A 4 Point Inspection Inspects the Electrical System
Electrical problems pose a hazard to the home and its inhabitants. The electrical system should be in good shape for your own personal safety and the insurance company wants to know that the house is not a risk for an electrical fire. A total loss from a house fire means a big payout from the insurance company, and the goal is to mitigate this possibility.
Inspect it Like a Woman, LLC offers home inspection services, including 4 point inspections, in Central Florida. Contact us to request an appointment.