The 4 Point Inspection form is a crucial document designed to assess the condition of a property's major systems: roofing, electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), and plumbing. It outlines specific details such as the inspector's name, inspection date, and the conditions of each system, supplemented by required photographic evidence. Used primarily in Florida, this form helps underwriters determine a property's insurability, emphasizing that it must be completed by a Florida-licensed inspector and does not guarantee the longevity or suitability of the inspected systems.
When homeowners and potential buyers look towards insuring or purchasing a home, a 4-Point Inspection Form often becomes a crucial document in the process. This detailed form, following strict guidelines particularly in states like Florida, is crafted to evaluate and report on the major systems of a home—electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and roofing. Inspectors, who must be licensed in Florida, delve into the condition of these systems, noting their age, current condition, and any visible signs of deficiencies or hazards. The form requires minimum photo documentation, ensuring a thorough visual and technical assessment. It emphasizes the importance of transparency and accuracy, as underwriting decisions about the insurability of a property hinge on this evaluation. Moreover, it addresses any specific renovations or repairs, particularly focusing on areas such as electrical wiring, to highlight any remediation work. Special instructions underline the need for detailed reporting and photographic evidence to support the inspection findings, knowing these insights significantly impact the determination of a property's suitability for insurance. This meticulous approach not only facilitates informed decision-making by insurance underwriters but also serves as a valuable tool for homeowners to understand the state of their home's critical infrastructures.
4-Point Inspection Form
Insured/Applicant Name:_________________________________________________ Application / Policy #:__________________________
Address Inspected:___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Actual Year Built:________________________
Date Inspected: ______________________________________________
Minimum Photo Requirements:
Dwelling: Each side
Roof: Each slope
Plumbing: Water heater, under cabinet plumbing/drains, exposed valves
Main electrical service panel with interior door label
Electrical box with panel off
All hazards or deficiencies noted in this report
A Florida-licensed inspector must complete, sign and date this form.
Be advised that Underwriting will rely on the information in this sample form, or a similar form, that is obtained from the Florida licensed professional of your choice. This information only is used to determine insurability and is not a warranty or assurance of the suitability, fitness or longevity of any of the systems inspected.
Electrical System
Separate documentation of any aluminum wiring remediation must be provided and certified by a licensed electrician.
Main Panel
Second Panel
Type:
Circuit breaker
Fuse
Circuit breaker Fuse
Total Amps: __________
Is amperage sufficient for current usage?
Yes No (explain)
Indicate presence of any of the following:
Cloth wiring
Active knob and tube
Branch circuit aluminum wiring (If present, describe the usage of all aluminum wiring):
* If single strand (aluminum branch) wiring, provide details of all remediation. Separate documentation of all work must be provided.
Connections repaired via COPALUM crimp Connections repaired via AlumiConn
Hazards Present
Double taps
Blowing fuses
Exposed wiring
Tripping breakers
Unsafe wiring
Empty sockets
Improper breaker size
Loose wiring
Scorching
Improper grounding
Other (explain)
Corrosion
Over fusing
General condition of the electrical system:
Satisfactory
Unsatisfactory (explain)
Supplemental information
Wiring Type
Panel age: __________
Copper
Year last updated: __________
Year last updated:__________
NM, BX or Conduit
Brand/Model: __________
Sample Form Insp4pt 01 18
HVAC System
Central AC:
Yes
No
Central heat:
If not central heat, indicate primary heat source and fuel type: _________________________________
Are the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in good working order?
No (explain)
Date of last HVAC servicing/inspection: ______________
Wood-burning stove or central gas fireplace not professionally installed?
Space heater used as primary heat source?
Is the source portable?
Does the air handler/condensate line or drain pan show any signs of blockage or leakage, including water damage to the surrounding area?
Yes No
Supplemental Information
Age of system: _____________
Year last updated: _____________
(Please attach photo(s) of HVAC equipment, including dated manufacturer’s plate)
Plumbing System
Is there a temperature pressure relief valve on the water heater?
Is there any indication of an active leak?
Is there any indication of a prior leak?
Water heater location: _______________________________________________
General condition of the following plumbing fixtures and connections to appliances:
Satisfactory Unsatisfactory
N/A
Dishwasher
Toilets
Refrigerator
Sinks
Washing machine
Sump pump
Water heater
Main shut off valve
Showers/Tubs
All other visible
If unsatisfactory, please provide comments/details (leaks, wet/soft spots, mold, corrosion, grout/caulk, etc.).
Age of Piping System:
Type of pipes (check all that apply)
_____
Original to home
Completely re-piped
PVC/CPVC
Partially re-piped
Galvanized
(Provide year and extent of renovation in the comments below)
PEX
Polybutylene
Other (specify)
Roof (With photos of each roof slope, this section can take the place of the Roof Inspection Form.)
Predominant Roof
Covering material: __________
Roof age (years): __________
Remaining useful life (years): __________
Date of last roofing permit: __________
Date of last update: __________
If updated (check one):
Full replacement Partial replacement
%of replacement: __________
Overall condition:
Unsatisfactory (explain below)
Any visible signs of damage / deterioration?
(check all that apply and explain below)
Cracking
Cupping/curling
Excessive granule loss
Exposed asphalt
Exposed felt
Missing/loose/cracked tabs or tiles
Soft spots in decking Visible hail damage
Any visible signs of leaks? Yes No
Attic/underside of decking Yes No
Interior ceilings Yes No
Secondary Roof
Additional Comments/Observations (use additional pages if needed):
All 4-Point Inspection Forms must be completed and signed by a verifiable Florida-licensed inspector. I certify that the above statements are true and correct.
Inspector Signature
Title
License Number
Date
Company Name
License Type
Work Phone
Special Instructions: This sample 4-Point Inspection Form includes the minimum data needed for Underwriting to properly evaluate a property application. While this specific form is not required, any other inspection report submitted for consideration must include at least this level of detail to be acceptable.
Photo Requirements
Photos must accompany each 4-Point Inspection Form. The minimum photo requirements include:
•Dwelling: Each side
•Roof: Each slope
•Plumbing: Water heater, under cabinet plumbing/drains, exposed valves
•Open main electrical panel and interior door
•Electrical box with the panel off
•All hazards or deficiencies
Inspector Requirements
To be accepted, all inspection forms must be completed, signed and dated by a verifiable Florida-licensed professional. Examples include:
•A general, residential, or building contractor
•A building code inspector
•A home inspector
Note: A trade-specific, licensed professional may sign off only on the inspection form section for their trade. (e.g., an electrician may sign off only on the electrical section of the form.)
Documenting the Condition of Each System
The Florida-licensed inspector is required to certify the condition of the roof, electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems. Acceptable Condition means that each system is working as intended and there are no visible hazards or deficiencies.
Additional Comments or Observations
This section of the 4-Point Inspection Form must be completed with full details/descriptions if any of the following are noted on the inspection:
•Updates: Identify the types of updates, dates completed and by whom
•Any visible hazards or deficiencies
•Any system determined not to be in good working order
Note to All Agents
The writing agent must review each 4-Point Inspection Form before it is submitted with an application for coverage. It is the agent’s responsibility to ensure that all rules and requirements are met before the application is bound. Agents may not submit applications for properties with electrical, heating or plumbing systems not in good working order or with existing hazards/deficiencies.
Filling out a 4 Point Inspection form is a straightforward process but requires attention to detail to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete. This form is used to document the condition of a property's key systems: electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and roofing. Each section must be filled out by a licensed Florida inspector, who certifies the condition of these systems. Accurate and thorough completion of this form is vital as it plays a crucial role in the underwriting process for insurance applications. Here are the steps to fill out the form correctly:
Once finished, review the entire form to ensure nothing has been missed and all information is accurate. This careful attention to detail can help ensure a smooth underwriting process for the property in question.
What is a 4-Point Inspection Form?
A 4-Point Inspection Form is a report that examines the four major systems in a home: the roof, electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and plumbing systems. It is typically required by insurance companies for homes over a certain age to ensure these systems are in good working condition and to determine the home's insurability.
Who can complete a 4-Point Inspection Form?
The inspection must be completed, signed, and dated by a Florida-licensed professional, such as a general, residential, or building contractor, a building code inspector, or a home inspector. Electricians, plumbers, or HVAC professionals may also sign off on their respective sections of the form.
Why do insurance companies require a 4-Point Inspection?
Insurance companies use the 4-Point Inspection to assess the risk associated with insuring an older home. The inspection identifies the condition of the home's major systems, which can affect the home's insurability and help the insurance company decide if they will provide coverage and at what cost.
What are the minimum photo requirements for a 4-Point Inspection?
Photos are required for each side of the dwelling, each roof slope, the water heater, under-cabinet plumbing/drains and exposed valves, the main electrical service panel with the door open, and the electrical box with the panel off. Photos of all noted hazards or deficiencies are also required.
What if a system is found to be in unsatisfactory condition during the inspection?
If a system is not in good condition, the inspector must provide detailed comments or observations explaining the deficiencies or hazards. It is the responsibility of the homeowner or the insurance agent to address these issues before coverage can be bound.
Can updates or renovations affect the outcome of a 4-Point Inspection?
Yes, updates or renovations, especially to the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and roofing systems, can positively impact the inspection outcome. The inspector should include detailed descriptions of the updates, including the types of updates, dates completed, and who performed the work.
What happens if the inspector notes hazards or deficiencies on the 4-Point Inspection Form?
The inspector will detail all observed hazards or deficiencies in the Additional Comments or Observations section. This information is crucial for underwriting decisions and must be addressed by the homeowner to improve the home’s insurability.
Are there specific requirements for the electrical system in the 4-Point Inspection?
Yes, the electrical system section includes checking for sufficient amperage, the presence of cloth wiring, active knob and tube wiring, branch circuit aluminum wiring, and any hazards like double taps, exposed wiring, or unsafe wiring. Remediation for aluminum wiring must be documented and certified by a licensed electrician.
What does an "Acceptable Condition" mean on a 4-Point Inspection Form?
An "Acceptable Condition" means that the inspected system is functioning as intended, with no visible hazards or deficiencies. It indicates that the system should not pose a significant risk to the home or its occupants.
What is the role of the agent in the 4-Point Inspection process?
The agent must review each 4-Point Inspection Form before it is submitted with an application for coverage. It is the agent's responsibility to ensure that the form is completed correctly and that all systems are in good working order, with no existing hazards or deficiencies, before the application is bound.
Not providing sufficient detail on updates or repairs: Many people make the mistake of not thoroughly documenting recent updates or repairs. This oversight can lead to misunderstandings about the property’s condition or underestimation of the property’s value. For example, if the roof or electrical system has been updated, it is crucial to include detailed information such as the date of completion and the professional who performed the work. Failing to provide this information can impact the underwriting process and the insurability of the property.
Skipping sections that are applicable: Some individuals may overlook or intentionally skip sections that are relevant to their property's current state. This can occur particularly in sections where the property may not meet the expected standards, such as in the presence of knob and tube wiring or polybutylene plumbing. Ignoring these sections doesn't make the problem disappear; instead, it obscures vital information that can affect the property’s insurance eligibility and risk assessment.
Omitting photos or providing poor-quality images: The requirements for photos are clear, yet often misunderstood or underappreciated. Photos serve as visual proof of the property’s condition and are especially important for the dwelling, roof, plumbing, and electrical systems. Some people fail to include these photos altogether, or they submit photos of poor quality that don’t clearly show the condition of the property. This can lead to delays in the inspection process or inaccuracies in the assessment of the property’s condition.
Ignoring the need for a Florida-licensed professional’s signature: It’s a common oversight to submit the form without the proper certification from a Florida-licensed inspector. This validation is a critical component of the form, signifying that a qualified professional has assessed the property's systems. Submissions without this verification are often rejected or require re-inspection, causing delays in the insurance application process.
Providing inaccurate information about the systems: There may be instances where the information provided about the HVAC, electrical, plumbing, or roofing systems is inaccurate, either inadvertently or intentionally. Misrepresentation of the systems’ age, condition, or updates can result in incorrect underwriting decisions. This mistake not only affects the immediate insurability but can also lead to future claims being denied if the inaccuracies come to light after a policy is issued.
Failing to offer explanations for “No” responses or observed hazards: Simply marking “No” on questions regarding system functionality or noting hazards without further explanation leaves too much room for interpretation. Detailed explanations help underwriters understand the context and extent of any issues, guiding more accurate risk assessment and policy decisions. Lack of detail can result in unnecessary back-and-forth communication, delaying the underwriting process.
When conducting a property inspection, especially in the context of real estate transactions or insurance applications, the 4-Point Inspection form is a crucial document. However, it is often not the only piece of documentation required to fully evaluate a property's condition and insurability. Several other forms and documents are commonly used alongside the 4-Point Inspection form to provide a comprehensive overview of a property's state. These documents help to ensure that all aspects of the property are thoroughly examined and any potential risks are identified. Below is a list of such documents, each serving its unique purpose in the inspection process.
Together, these documents paint a comprehensive picture of a property's condition, supplementing the information provided by the 4-Point Inspection form. They are instrumental in helping homeowners, buyers, and insurers make informed decisions based on the detailed assessment of each critical component of the property. Understanding the purpose and content of each can significantly impact the evaluation process, ensuring a thorough and accurate representation of a property's condition. Each document plays a crucial role in the broader context of property inspection, complementing the insights provided by the 4-Point Inspection form.
The Home Inspection Report shares several similarities with the 4-Point Inspection form, primarily in its comprehensive evaluation of a property. Both documents assess major systems within the home, including electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), plumbing, and in the case of the Home Inspection Report, many additional areas such as the foundation, interior, and exterior of the property. Where the 4-Point Inspection is condensed, focusing on the core systems for insurance purposes, the Home Inspection Report provides a broader, more detailed view of the home's condition, often used by buyers or homeowners to understand the state of their property.
The Wind Mitigation Inspection form, while focused on a specific aspect of property inspection, shares a key similarity with the 4-Point Inspection form in its requirement for certification by a licensed professional and its role in the insurance underwriting process. This form evaluates features that protect a property against wind damage, such as the roof shape and construction methods. Both forms are used by insurance companies to determine insurability and potential premium adjustments based on the assessed risk, although the Wind Mitigation Inspection specifically affects the calculation of discounts for windstorm insurance.
The Roof Certification form is another document that demonstrates a focused similarity with the 4-Point Inspection. While the 4-Point Inspection includes an assessment of the roofing system among other elements, the Roof Certification exclusively examines the roof's condition, age, expected lifespan, and any repairs that may be necessary. Both are critical to insurance providers who rely on these evaluations to gauge the risk of insuring the property. The roof's condition, as certified in these reports, can significantly influence insurance policy terms and premiums due to the high cost of roof damage and replacement.
The Electrical Inspection Certificate narrows its focus compared to the 4-Point Inspection, concentrating solely on the electrical system's condition, safety, and compliance with local codes and standards. Similar to the electrical section of the 4-Point Inspection, this certificate requires completion by a licensed electrician and includes details about the wiring, electrical panels, outlet operation, and any potential hazards. Both forms are integral to ensuring the electrical system poses no risk to the property or its occupants and meets insurance underwriting criteria for coverage eligibility and premium determination.
When filling out the 4 Point Inspection form, there are several dos and don'ts that should be followed to ensure the process is done accurately and effectively.
This guidance aims to streamline the inspection process, enhance the accuracy of the information provided, and ensure compliance with the insurance underwriting requirements.
Only Older Homes Need a 4-Point Inspection: Many believe that only properties built over a certain number of years require a 4-point inspection. This is not accurate. While it's more common for older homes, any home may need this inspection based on insurance company requirements, not just the age of the property.
A 4-Point Inspection is the Same as a Home Inspection: This misconception confuses many. A home inspection is a comprehensive review of the entire property, whereas a 4-point inspection focuses specifically on four main areas: HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), electrical systems, plumbing, and the roof.
Only a Home Inspector Can Perform a 4-Point Inspection: The truth is that various Florida-licensed professionals can carry out this inspection. This includes general, residential, or building contractors, building code inspectors, and home inspectors. Trade-specific, licensed professionals can sign off on their specific trade section of the form.
4-Point Inspections Guarantee the Condition of the Home: While this inspection provides a snapshot of the four main systems' condition at the inspection time, it does not guarantee their overall suitability, fitness, or longevity. It is a tool for insurability assessment rather than a warranty of condition.
The Form Is Only Valid If It's This Specific Sample Form: Although the provided sample form spells out minimum data requirements, it's not the only form that can be submitted. Any inspection report covering at least as much detail regarding the four specific areas is generally acceptable for underwriting purposes.
Photos Are Not Necessary for the Inspection Report: Contrary to this belief, photos are a crucial part of the 4-point inspection report. The requirement clearly states that photos of each side of the dwelling, each roof slope, specific plumbing areas, and electrical components are needed. These visuals are essential for underwriting decisions.
Filling Out the Form Partially Is Acceptable: This is a dangerous misconception. The entire form, including all pertinent sections and additional comments or observations, must be fully completed for the inspection to be considered valid. It must also be signed and dated by a Florida-licensed inspector.
The Inspection is Only Concerned with Insurability: While determining insurability is a key reason for the 4-point inspection, the form also serves to identify any visible hazards or deficiencies in the four areas inspected. This information can be critical for homeowners beyond insurance purposes, aiding in understanding the property's condition and any necessary maintenance or updates.
Understanding the 4-Point Inspection form is crucial for homeowners, insurance professionals, and inspectors alike. This form plays a vital role in the insurance underwriting process, assessing the condition of a home's major systems. Here are key takeaways about filling out and using the 4-Point Inspection form effectively:
Effectively filling out the 4-Point Inspection form requires attention to detail and a comprehensive evaluation of the property. Completing this form accurately and thoroughly is essential for homeowners seeking to understand their home's condition and for insurance professionals determining the property's insurability.
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