4-Point Inspections
A 4-point inspection is a limited-scope inspection commonly required by insurance companies for older homes. At Green Valley Inspections, we provide accurate, insurance-ready 4-point inspections that help homeowners secure or renew coverage without unnecessary delays.
Our inspections focus on the four major systems insurers care about most: roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, delivering clear documentation and professional reporting that meets insurance carrier requirements throughout Southern California.
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
Our 4-point inspections follow commonly accepted insurance guidelines and focus on visible and accessible components only.
Roofing System
The roof inspection evaluates:
- Roof covering material
- Estimated remaining useful life
- Signs of leaks, damage, or deterioration
- Flashing and visible penetrations
Insurers want to know whether the roof is in serviceable condition and poses a risk of water intrusion.
Electrical System
We inspect the electrical system for safety concerns and outdated components, including:
- Main electrical panel and subpanels
- Wiring methods
- Visible hazards such as double taps or improper breakers
- Grounding and bonding (where accessible)
Electrical issues are one of the most common reasons insurance coverage is delayed or denied.
Plumbing System
The plumbing inspection includes:
- Water supply piping materials
- Drain and waste piping (visible areas only)
- Water heater condition and age
- Signs of active leaks or corrosion
Outdated or deteriorating plumbing materials can increase the risk of water damage claims.
HVAC System
The HVAC inspection evaluates:
- Heating and cooling equipment
- Approximate system age
- Operational status at the time of inspection
- Visible signs of damage or improper installation
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?
- InterNACHI Certified Inspectors
- Experience with insurance-required inspections
- Fast turnaround times
- Clear, insurer-friendly reports
- Honest and accurate evaluations
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
Is a 4-point inspection the same as a home inspection?
No. A 4-point inspection is limited in scope and focuses only on four systems for insurance purposes.
Can a 4-point inspection fail?
There is no pass or fail. The inspection simply reports the condition of the four systems.
Do all insurance companies accept the same form?
Requirements vary. Our reports meet widely accepted insurance standards, but your insurer may have specific preferences.
Will you submit the report to my insurance company?
We provide the report directly to you so you can submit it to your insurer or agent.
Should I get a full home inspection too?
Yes, especially if you are buying the home. A full inspection provides a much more complete evaluation.
