4-Point Inspections

What Is a 4-Point Inspection?

A 4-point inspection is designed specifically for insurance purposes. Unlike a full home inspection, it evaluates only four key systems that insurers consider the highest risk factors in a home:

• Roof
• Electrical system
• Plumbing system
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

Insurance companies use this information to assess the condition, safety, and remaining lifespan of these systems before issuing or renewing a policy.

When Is a 4-Point Inspection Required?

Most insurance carriers request a 4-point inspection for homes that are typically:

• 25–40 years old or older
• Recently purchased
• Changing insurance providers
• Undergoing policy renewal

If your insurer has requested a 4-point inspection, Green Valley Inspections can help you meet their requirements quickly and accurately.

What Our 4-Point Inspections Include

Roofing System

• Roof covering material: As part of a 4-point insurance inspection, we document the visible roof covering material and its general condition. This helps insurers understand what type of roof is present and whether visible damage or wear may affect insurability.
• Estimated remaining useful life: A four-point home inspection may include an estimate of the roof’s remaining useful life based on visible condition, age, and overall wear. This is important because many insurance providers want to know whether the roof appears serviceable.
• Signs of leaks, damage, or deterioration: During a 4-point inspection, we look for visible signs of water intrusion, damaged materials, missing sections, staining, or roof deterioration. These findings help identify concerns that may increase the risk of future water damage.
• Flashing and visible penetrations: Flashing and roof penetrations are reviewed because they are common sources of leaks. We check visible areas around vents, chimneys, skylights, and other openings for damage, gaps, or poor sealing.

Insurers want to know whether the roof is in serviceable condition and poses a risk of water intrusion.

Electrical System

• Main electrical panel and subpanels: In a 4-point home inspection, we review the main panel and subpanels for visible safety concerns, condition, and accessibility. We look for issues such as missing covers, damaged components, signs of overheating, or outdated equipment.
• Wiring methods: A 4pt inspection includes a review of visible wiring methods where accessible. The goal is to identify outdated, damaged, unsupported, or improper wiring conditions that may require further evaluation by a licensed electrician.
• Visible hazards such as double taps or improper breakers: A 4-point house inspection helps document visible electrical hazards that may affect safety or insurance review. Clearly report concerns such as double taps, improper breakers, exposed wiring, or unsafe panel conditions.
• Grounding and bonding where accessible: We review grounding and bonding where visible and accessible because they support electrical safety. If we observe concerns, the report may recommend further review by a qualified electrical professional.

Electrical issues are one of the most common reasons insurance coverage is delayed or denied.

Plumbing System

• Water supply piping materials: We review visible water supply piping materials to help identify the type and condition of accessible plumbing lines. Insurance providers may look closely at older or deteriorating materials because they can increase leak risk.
• Drain and waste piping (visible areas only): We review drain and waste piping in accessible areas only, since some plumbing may be hidden behind walls, floors, or cabinets. We look for visible leaks, corrosion, damage, poor support, or signs of past moisture problems.
• Water heater condition and age: We review the water heater for visible condition, approximate age, leaks, corrosion, safety concerns, and installation issues. This helps document whether the unit appears functional and whether visible concerns may need repair or further review.
• Signs of active leaks or corrosion: Active leaks, corrosion, water staining, or moisture around plumbing components can point to current or developing problems. These findings are important because plumbing issues can lead to water damage if not addressed.

Outdated or deteriorating plumbing materials can increase the risk of water damage claims.

HVAC System

• Heating and cooling equipment: We review heating and cooling equipment for visible condition and basic operation during the inspection. We look for damage, missing components, poor maintenance, or conditions that may affect system reliability.
• Approximate system age: The approximate system age helps insurers determine whether the HVAC equipment is older or nearing the end of its typical service life. Age alone does not confirm failure, but it can help guide insurance review and future maintenance planning.
• Operational status at the time of inspection: We check whether the system responds to normal controls and appears to operate during the inspection. If the system does not turn on, has limited function, or shows visible concerns, we document those findings.
• Visible signs of damage or improper installation: Visible damage, loose components, poor support, rust, blocked airflow, or improper installation can affect system safety and performance. These conditions may require service or review by a licensed HVAC professional.

Insurers use this information to assess fire risk and system reliability.

What a 4-Point Inspection Does Not Include

It’s important to understand the limitations of a 4-point inspection. This inspection does not:

• Replace a full home inspection
• Evaluate structural components
• Assess cosmetic defects
• Inspect appliances or interiors in detail

If you are purchasing a home, a full home inspection is strongly recommended in addition to a 4-point inspection.

Insurance-Ready Reporting

Our 4-point inspection reports are designed to meet insurance company expectations. Reports include:

• Clear descriptions of each system
• High-quality photos
• Estimated system ages and conditions
• Professional documentation insurers can rely on

We understand what insurance carriers are looking for and deliver reports that reduce back-and-forth requests.

Common Issues Found During 4-Point Inspections

Some of the most common issues that impact insurance eligibility include:

• Roofs near the end of their service life
• Outdated electrical panels or wiring
• Aging water heaters or plumbing materials
• Non-operational HVAC systems

Identifying these concerns early helps homeowners address them before submitting their inspection to an insurer.

How to Prepare for a 4-Point Inspection

To help ensure a smooth inspection:

• Provide clear access to the electrical panel, attic, and HVAC unit
• Replace missing electrical panel covers
• Ensure utilities are turned on
• Have documentation available for recent upgrades, if applicable

Preparation can help avoid delays and follow-up requests.n.

Why Choose Green Valley Inspections?

• Certified Master Inspectors: Green Valley Inspections is led by Certified Master Inspectors with advanced training and hands-on field experience. This level of expertise helps homeowners receive a more detailed 4-point inspection focused on visible insurance-related concerns.
• Over 18 Years of Hands-On Inspection Work: Green Valley Inspections brings more than 18 years of hands-on experience inspecting homes and properties. Our background helps us provide detailed, practical reports that support better buying, selling, and maintenance decisions. 
• InterNACHI Certified Inspectors: Our inspectors are InterNACHI certified and follow recognized industry Standards of Practice. This helps keep every inspection organized, consistent, and focused on the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
• Experience with insurance-required inspections: We understand what insurance companies commonly look for during a four-point home inspection. Our team carefully reviews the required systems and explains any visible findings clearly and practically.
• Fast turnaround times: Insurance timelines can move quickly, so report delivery matters. We work efficiently to complete the inspection and provide the report promptly without rushing the review itself.
• 400+ Google Reviews: Green Valley Inspections has earned more than 400 Google reviews from clients who trusted our team with their inspection needs. This strong review history reflects our focus on professionalism, communication, and dependable service.
• Honest and accurate evaluations: We do not exaggerate findings or overlook important visible concerns. Our goal is to provide clear information about the home’s condition so homeowners can move forward with confidence.
• Clear, insurer-friendly reports: Our reports are easy to read, organized, and useful for insurance submission. Each 4-point insurance inspection report includes clear system details, visible findings, and photos when needed.

We know time matters when dealing with insurance requirements, and we work efficiently without sacrificing accuracy.

How Long Does a 4-Point Inspection Take?

Most 4-point inspections take between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the property size and accessibility. Reports are typically delivered within 24 hours, often the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

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