Buying a house is nothing if not riddled with processes that seem never-ending. From marking out your top picks and visiting the open houses to getting a home inspection and negotiating repairs before closing the sale, the entire process is long. However, the relief you feel after all the steps are completed is otherworldly. But this is where your insurance carrier comes in, requesting an inspection of their own before insuring your new house. Most insurance companies ask for a 4 point inspection in Jacksonville FL, before they can protect your house. Here’s what you need to know about this type of inspection.

What is a four-point inspection?

A four-point inspection is something many insurers insist on getting before you get them to ensure your place or to maintain the existing policy. The name comes from the way the process is conducted. It essentially covers four major parts of the house, which can easily determine the condition and health of the house. The four points covered are:

  • HVAC system (air conditioning, air ventilation, and heating)
  • Plumbing system (water heater and water-related damages)
  • Electrical system (wiring and panels)
  • Roofing (shingles and roof covering)
  • The structural integrity of the property is also checked during the inspection. Afterward, the inspector fills a 4-point inspection form, which can be given to the insurer.

Why get a four-point inspection?

Insurance companies essentially wish to save on the claims they have to give out. Therefore, they are reluctant to insure houses older than 25 years with components nearing their reliable service time. Conducting a four-point inspection and passing it can assure the insurer that they are not insuring a house that is bound to fail during the insured time. So, if your house needs insurance and it is quite old, you need this type of inspection.

The difference from a home inspection

A four-point inspection has obvious differences from a regular home inspection. For one, the area covered in the latter is more than the former. A regular check looks for issues like structural integrity, fixtures, appliances, insulation, outlets, etc., aside from the four major systems. Therefore, it is much more comprehensive than a four-point inspection and a required one for those looking to purchase a house. Moreover, while a regular inspection is a necessity for all homes, even new ones, a four-point check is only necessary when the house is older.

Conclusion

Buying a house and getting it insured can be a long process. A buying process usually requires a home inspection and then you can move in with peace after closing the deal. However, when your new house is older, you may need a four-point inspection to get your property insured by an insurer.