Unlike a typical home inspection where a home inspector evaluates all home component systems, a four-point inspection covers only HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and roofing. The purpose of a four-point inspection is to make sure that those four systems are operating properly so that a homeowner can obtain a homeowner’s insurance policy.
Inspectors who complete our four-point inspection certification course will be certified to perform four-point inspections and will be qualified to deliver a report to their clients in a format that is accepted by insurance companies.
Four Point Inspection Certification Course Demo Video
Examples of subtopics included in our four point inspection training class are plumbing connections and fixtures, electrical wiring and panels, roofing, as well as all things related to heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
What is a Four-Point Home Inspection?
A four-point inspection examines the current condition of a property’s four major systems: HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and electrical. It’s an inspection often requested by homeowners insurance companies before someone initiates a new coverage plan. Insurance companies are often hesitant to provide coverage to homes older than 20 years, due to their increased liability.
New homeowners can take advantage of four-point inspections to gauge whether a prospective home is actually worth their investment before committing to a mortgage. Major issues found in the four main systems of a property can be indicative of future repair headaches.
Who Can Perform a 4-Point Inspection?
Insurance companies dictate who can perform a 4-point inspection. Typically, they require a licensed electrician, residential contractor, roofing contractor, or certified home inspector to conduct such inspections. As long as the person performing the inspection is licensed, the insurance company will likely accept their insight. Home-buyers will be eager to connect with licensed home inspectors experienced in 4-point inspections. It’s an excellent option to add to your list of service offerings.
How Long is a 4-Point Inspection Good for in Florida?
4-point inspection requirements in Florida state that the findings are valid for up to one year. Beyond that point, a follow-up 4-point inspection may be necessary. The reality is that a lot of wear and tear can occur over one year. What might have passed inspection 12 months ago may have deteriorated significantly over the course of one year. While the information in a year-old inspection may provide some insight into the condition of a property, you’ll want to pursue the most updated inspection report available.
What is Included in a 4-Point Inspection?
A four-point inspection starts with a thorough look into a property’s HVAC system. Inspectors should check if the home has air conditioning and central heating. Reports should indicate the condition of these units and whether there are any obvious signs of leaks, damage, or aging.
Next comes a thorough inspection of the electrical system. Inspectors should determine exactly what type of wiring is run throughout the home. Those with aluminum, knob-and-tube, and copper wiring may present an increased risk of fire. Such homes are often unable to be insured, which is why it pays to have a 4-point inspection conducted before purchasing a property.
Home inspectors also look into a home’s plumbing when conducting a four-point inspection. They’ll examine pipes to see if there are any signs of leaks that could lead to water damage in the home. The water heater is also under close observation during such an inspection. So long as it adequately distributes hot water throughout the home, the water heater should pass inspection.
Finally, roofing is the last component of a four-point inspection. Inspectors should look to determine if there is any shingle damage or cracked tiling on the roof. The age, material, and life expectancy of the roof can be incredibly revealing.
Do All Insurance Companies Require a 4-Point Inspection in Florida?
While you might expect 4-point inspections to be standard in the state of Florida, the opposite is actually true. Most homes do not need a four-point inspection before being sold. Instead, these inspections are typically reserved for older homes. Home insurance companies will often dictate whether such an inspection is necessary. The results will determine whether or not the insurance company opts to insure the property.
Who Can Complete a 4-Point Inspection in Florida?
Only professionals licensed in the state of Florida may complete a 4-point inspection. According to InterNACHI, this professional may be a building code inspector, an architect, an engineer, a building contractor, or a home inspector.
Become a Florida Certified Inspector Today
The majority of students who train with ICA will enroll in the Florida Home Inspection Master Package to get all required 120 hours, Four Point Inspection Certification, Wind Mitigation Certification, and access to all other bonus courses.
| Course Name | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Home Inspection Master Package with Bonus Courses | Best Value (Includes 120 Course hours plus Wind Mitigation and 4 Point Inspection Courses) | $895.00Add to cart | |
| FL 120 hour Online course only | (Does not include Wind Mitigation and 4-Point Inspection) | $695.00Add to cart | |
| FL Wind Mitigation Course | $200.00Add to cart | ||
| FL 4-Point Inspection Course | $200.00Add to cart | ||
The four point inspection certification course is included free of charge for students who enroll in our online home inspection course or any of our classroom home inspection training courses. Individuals not enrolled in our home inspection course can enroll in the four point inspection certification course separately for $200 by calling us at (888)374-4096.