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What is a 4-Point Inspection?

What is a 4-point inspection?  Great question! A 4-point inspection is a type of home inspection that focuses on four major components of a home: the roof, the electrical system, the plumbing, and the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Before issuing a homeowner's insurance policy for a property, insurance companies frequently require this inspection.

A 4-point inspection evaluates the overall condition and safety of a property's critical systems. The inspector will inspect the roof for signs of damage or wear, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or animal damage. They will also inspect the electrical system to ensure it is code compliant and free of hazards such as outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.

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Your Dream Home inspector will also inspect the plumbing system to ensure that it is in good working order and that there are no leaks or other problems that could cause property damage. Finally, they will inspect the HVAC system to ensure it is in good working order and appropriately sized for the property.

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Understanding that a 4-point inspection is not a comprehensive property inspection is critical. It only addresses the four areas mentioned above. Do I need a complete home inspection?  If you are looking to buy a home, it is always a good idea to have a complete home inspection in addition to a 4-point inspection. This will provide you with a complete picture of the property's condition and assist you in deciding whether or not to purchase it.

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Overall, a 4-point inspection is a valuable tool for homeowners and potential buyers to understand the condition of a property's critical systems. It can help identify potential issues before they become major issues and provide peace of mind when buying a home.

Why Do I Need a 4 Point Inspection?

If you want to buy a new home or get homeowner's insurance, you may need a 4-point inspection. Before issuing a policy for a property, many insurance companies require a 4-point inspection. This is because the inspection provides them with vital information about the condition of the roof, electrical system, plumbing, and HVAC system, all of which are critical factors in determining a property's overall safety and risk.

A 4-point inspection can also help homeowners looking to sell their homes. A 4-point inspection before listing the property allows homeowners to identify and address any issues with the roof, electrical system, plumbing, and HVAC system, making the property more appealing to potential buyers and avoiding delays or complications during the sale process.

In conclusion, a 4-point inspection is a valuable tool that can assist homeowners, and potential buyers in understanding the condition of critical systems in a property, and insurance companies may also require it. It can help identify potential issues before they become major issues, giving you peace of mind when buying or insuring a home.

How Long Does a 4-Point Inspection Take?

A 4-point inspection usually takes about an hour to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the property. The inspector will need to thoroughly examine the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC system, which can take some time.

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The inspector will usually start by inspecting the property's exterior and checking the roof for signs of damage or wear, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or animal damage. They will inspect the electrical system for hazards like outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.

The inspector will then proceed inside the property to inspect the plumbing system for leaks or other issues that could cause property damage. They will also inspect the HVAC system to ensure it is in good working order and adequately sized for the property.

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Following the home inspection, the Dream Home inspector will provide a detailed report of their findings, including any identified issues and recommendations for repairs or upgrades. The home inspector will also include photos of any problems discovered.

It is important to note that the inspection time can vary depending on the complexity of the property, its age, and the condition of the systems. The inspection process may take longer if the property is in poor condition or has not been recently updated.​ A typical 4-point inspection takes about an hour, but this can vary depending on the property being inspected.

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