How To Pass A 4-Point Home Inspection?
When owning or buying a home there are a variety of inspections that will need to be done. For the most part, a full home inspection is conducted when you buy and sell a home. This ensures that the buyer is aware of any repairs that are needed on any of the major systems in the home. Also, a full home inspection ensures that both buyer and seller are good to proceed with the transaction. Keep in mind, that in some cases a 4-point home inspection can be conducted to save time and money. Typically, an insurance company will require a 4-point home inspection to verify any liabilities that exist with the home. How to pass a 4-point home inspection? The inspection will show what is and is not in the home. Each insurance company determines a pass.
Let’s take a look below at what is involved with a 4-point home inspection.
What Is A 4-Point Home Inspection?
A 4-point home inspection is as it sounds. The inspection focuses on the 4 main systems of the home to determine that all is in great working order. These inspections include your HVAC (air conditioning), plumbing, roof, and electrical systems. The 4-point home inspection allows the insurance company to determine that all is in working order before it initiates an insurance policy for the homeowner. When the inspection is conducted, the inspector is checking for the age of the systems, general functionality, and if there are any safety concerns. Typically, these are used when a buyer will purchase an older home.
What Is Included In The 4-Point Home Inspection?
As stated above, the 4-point home inspection will include the following:
- HVAC (Heating and Cooling System) – The underwriter is looking to see if the system is working and does the home have central heat and air. Additionally, they are checking for leaks in the condensation lines, and the age of the system. Also, the overall condition of the system.
- Plumbing System – The underwriter is looking to determine the type of supply and drain lines that are installed in the home. For example, are the pipes copper, galvanized, lead, PVC, CPVC, or polybutylene to name a few? Also, they are checking for any water damage.
- Electrical System – The underwriter is looking to see what type of electrical wiring was used in the home. Additionally, the brand of electrical panel that was used. The wiring in the electrical system could range from copper wiring, aluminum wiring, cloth or knob, and tube. Also, they are looking to see if there are any double-tapped breakers in the electrical panel or fire hazards.
- Roofing System – The underwriter is looking to determine the age and condition of the roof. Also, are there any needed repairs due to missing shingles, roofing tiles, or other damage that is allowing the roof to leak?
Preparing your home for a 4-point home inspection will require you to check the hot water heater, and your heating ventilation system, as they are associated with the point inspections listed above. The purpose of the home inspector and insurance underwriter is to take the information from the inspection to determine if the home insurance is applicable to the structures of the home.
How Much Does It Cost?
Spending money on a 4-point home inspection is not a bad idea. This will save you time and money down the road. Most 4-point home inspection cost between $100 and $200. If you opt to get a full home inspection you will be spending between $400 and $600. Consequently, depending on where you live will determine how much you will end up spending on a full home inspection.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you are aware of what is included with a 4-point home inspection, you can read up on how to pass the 4-point inspection. One way to keep up with the maintenance of the roof is to use a roof inspection checklist. Keeping a maintenance checklist on your roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems will allow you to maintain their functionalities.
Next, if it comes up that your HVAC unit needs to be replaced, you will want to determine if a permit is required for your HVAC replacement to occur. Doing it the right way will save you time and money when you go to list your home for sale.
Lastly, if you prefer to hire your local home inspection team for a full home inspection, it is important to understand what to expect before, during, and after a full home inspection occurs. Read up on the company that you hire so that you are familiar with their services.
When Do I Call A Professional?
Before you decide to get a 4-point home inspection to appease the insurance company, reach out to your local home inspection team to conduct a full home inspection. Not only will the 4 main systems be inspected, but all of the little details regarding the home will be looked at. Having a full home inspection report will provide you with the knowledge of what will or will not pass the 4-point home inspection. Consequently, you can get all of the repairs completed before calling for a 4-point home inspection.
Conclusion
Anytime you are looking to purchase a home there should be a full home inspection. The information from this home inspection will be used by the home buyer. They will negotiate any changes to the asking price of the seller. Any price changes are warranted if there are substantial costs in repairs. Keep in mind, the older the home the more likely you will need a 4-point home inspection. Get one in addition to a full home inspection. Reach out to Advantage Inspections to have your 4-point home inspection done here in West Central, Florida.
