Four Point Inspection

A 4 Point Inspection just like a wind mitigation inspection is an evaluation for insurance purposes. The 4-point inspection is an inspection of four major systems of a home. Roof, Electrical System, HVAC & Plumbing. We use a specific insurance form and attach photos for the insurance companies so they can review and determine cost of premiums and risk. The photos we need are a photo of the dwelling from each side, Photos of all the roof slopes, Photos of plumbing, here are some examples of the photos needed, water heater, under cabinets, plumbing and drains, exposed valves, toilet plumbing etc. The other photos we would need is main electrical panel interior door label and breakers and then with the panel cover removed. The next thing we have to photograph for a four-point inspection is all hazards and deficiencies that have been found. One example is a double tap in a electrical panel when Two or more wires were connected to one breaker in the panel. This condition can add to the load of the affected electrical circuit(s) causing a possible overload, tripping, or arcing at the breaker(s). Current standards require circuits to be independently protected.

1: Electrical Panel

You know an electrical panel when you see one. It is the metal box with breakers inside that controls power flow to the circuits originating from its distribution center (service panel). It usually has an Inspection Date sticker for the first page of breakers plus an Amperage Rating label that lists the maximum load per circuit- usually 15 or 20 amp based on wire gauge and components. A typical electrical panel will have a main circuit breaker that is the first breaker in the panel. It is usually located at the bottom or top of the panel and is often called a “main breaker”. The main circuit breaker protects all other breakers and circuits in the panel. If it trips, it means there is an overload or short circuit somewhere in the system. There may be other breakers in an electrical panel that are not part of the main circuit breaker. These are called “auxiliary” or “feeder” breakers and they protect specific circuits or outlets throughout your home.

Panel Cover

It’s important to know how to remove a panel cover safely to inspect your electrical system for hazards and deficiencies. To remove a cover, you need to turn off power at every circuit breaker first by flipping them all to off positions (some panels have switches on them). Then you can remove each individual cover by unscrewing it from its hinges (or removing screws) and lifting it up and out or just strait out. It is always best to have a professional to examine and remove electrical panel covers as this can be dangerous if you do not know what you are doing.

2: Roof Inspection on a 4-point inspection in Florida.

After we take detailed photos for the insurance company like Citizens insurance a state-owned insurance company. We look for cracking, coupling, curling of shingles excessive granule loss, exposed asphalt or felt, missing loose cracked tabs or tiles soft spots on decking and any visible hail damage. We look for missing or broken fasteners and any visible signs of water damage. We also check for any visible signs of insect or animal damage and the presence of any mold.

3: Plumbing:

We look for certain pipes in your home are that could be made of polybutylene, which is known to cause leakage problems, then it’s important that they get inspected. We will look at several things during an inspection including how likely the pipe is to burst and if there are signs of leakage near any water lines. Make sure the water heater is working correctly and effectively distributes hot water throughout the house.

4: HVAC

HVAC systems, which stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, are one of the most integral parts of a home. If an HVAC system is improperly installed or outdated, it can lead to poor air quality and dust accumulation. It’s important as a homeowner that you make sure you’re heating, and cooling unit is appropriately sized with no safety concerns. The condition and age of your HVAC unit will also be reviewed during the 4 point inspection visit; this information doesn’t require passing criteria, but it’s recommended as to determine the remaining life expectancy of the current HVAC system.