Insurance 4 Point Inspections are done when an insurance company contacts an insured and
requires information about older homes. The 4 Point Inspection includes a visual inspection
of age, remaining life and observations of the roof, heat and air conditioning, plumbing and
electricity. These reports are provided directly to the insured. Reinspections are also available for
these inspections. Digital pictures and detailed descriptions are included.
ROOF
They want an inspection of the roof with an estimate of its age and expected life.
They also want a general description of the type of roof and observation of problems. We include
pictures of problems. Some possible problems could be worn, damaged, missing shingles, roof
leaks, improper installation. Attic inspections are limited due to clearance and ducts.
ELECTRICITY
They are interested in the type and age of the wiring which includes a description of the wiring in
general including type of wiring, safety features such as fuses or breakers, GFI OR GFCIs, whether
the wiring is up to code, whether the box and outlets are properly grounded. Some companies
want an estimate of the remaining life of the wiring. Some general problems could be exposed
wiring, unsealed exterior light fixtures, two prong ungrounded outlets (meet code but not satisfactory to some insurance companies), undersized wiring, doubled up circuitry and a
multitude of other possible problems.
PLUMBING
Types of water lines are important to insurance companies. Problems have surfaced with some
types of waterlines. Polybutylene pipe was used in the 60's up until the early 90's.
There are any number of horror stories about bursting pipes after they have aged and begun to
break down from the inside out limiting the effectiveness of a visual inspection. Also Type M
plumbing is a thin wall copper water line which is sensitive to reverse osmosis water treatment
used in some municipalities. This type of line is subject to corrosion pin holes which develop
over time causing numerous leaks throughout the area of installation including attics and under slabs.
Hot water lines should be rated for heat or they can become brittle and burst. Tress with roots
around the house can invade drain pipes and cause damage.
HVAC
Type and age of air compressor and air handler or both in the event of a package unit are of
interest to the insurance company. The average life expectancy of these units are approximately
15 years. These systems are tested for function as are the ducts and air vents. Air conditioners
must test within a 14 to 22 degree range of high (supply) and low (return). Heat must be tested
and be appropriate for the size of breaker installed. An emergency breaker should be installed at the air handler with 6 feet of the unit. Areas of concern are open electrical splices, water in pan,
corrosion damage to the compressor or air handler, conditioned and return air leaks.
It should be noted that these inspections do not include the remainder of the house. It is a visual 4
point inspection only, no underground wiring or plumbing is inspected. No warrantee or
guarantee is either given or implied. We only provide a description of the problems for further
review/repair by a licensed contractor. |
