The 4-Point Inspection Form is a document used to assess the condition of key systems in a property, specifically the roof, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems. This inspection is typically required for homeowners seeking insurance coverage, especially in Florida. A licensed inspector must complete the form, ensuring that all relevant details and photographs are included to support the evaluation of the property's insurability.
The 4 Point Inspection Form plays a crucial role in the insurance application process for properties, particularly in Florida. This form assesses four key systems: the roof, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing. Each section requires detailed documentation, including the condition of these systems, any visible hazards, and their respective ages. For example, the electrical section not only checks for the type and age of the panels but also identifies potential risks such as aluminum wiring or improper grounding. The HVAC system evaluation focuses on whether heating and cooling systems are functioning properly, while the plumbing section examines for leaks and the condition of fixtures. Additionally, the roof assessment includes an overview of its material, age, and any signs of damage. To support these evaluations, the form mandates specific photo requirements, ensuring that each aspect is thoroughly documented. Importantly, a licensed Florida inspector must complete and sign the form, providing a level of assurance to underwriters regarding the property's insurability. This comprehensive approach helps in determining whether a property meets the necessary criteria for insurance coverage, while also highlighting any areas that may require attention or repair.
When filling out the 4 Point Inspection form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are four things you should do and four things you shouldn't do:
Filling out the 4 Point Inspection form is a crucial step for property insurance applications. Here are some key takeaways to ensure proper completion and usage:
By following these takeaways, you can effectively navigate the 4 Point Inspection process, ensuring a smoother experience when applying for property insurance.
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4-Point Inspection Form
Insured/Applicant Name:_________________________________________________ Application / Policy #:__________________________
Address Inspected:___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Actual Year Built:________________________
Date Inspected: ______________________________________________
Minimum Photo Requirements:
Dwelling: Each side
Roof: Each slope
Plumbing: Water heater, under cabinet plumbing/drains, exposed valves
Main electrical service panel with interior door label
Electrical box with panel off
All hazards or deficiencies noted in this report
A Florida-licensed inspector must complete, sign and date this form.
Be advised that Underwriting will rely on the information in this sample form, or a similar form, that is obtained from the Florida licensed professional of your choice. This information only is used to determine insurability and is not a warranty or assurance of the suitability, fitness or longevity of any of the systems inspected.
Electrical System
Separate documentation of any aluminum wiring remediation must be provided and certified by a licensed electrician.
Main Panel
Second Panel
Type:
Circuit breaker
Fuse
Circuit breaker Fuse
Total Amps: __________
Is amperage sufficient for current usage?
Yes No (explain)
Indicate presence of any of the following:
Cloth wiring
Active knob and tube
Branch circuit aluminum wiring (If present, describe the usage of all aluminum wiring):
* If single strand (aluminum branch) wiring, provide details of all remediation. Separate documentation of all work must be provided.
Connections repaired via COPALUM crimp Connections repaired via AlumiConn
Hazards Present
Double taps
Blowing fuses
Exposed wiring
Tripping breakers
Unsafe wiring
Empty sockets
Improper breaker size
Loose wiring
Scorching
Improper grounding
Other (explain)
Corrosion
Over fusing
General condition of the electrical system:
Satisfactory
Unsatisfactory (explain)
Supplemental information
Wiring Type
Panel age: __________
Copper
Year last updated: __________
Year last updated:__________
NM, BX or Conduit
Brand/Model: __________
Sample Form Insp4pt 01 18
HVAC System
Central AC:
Yes
No
Central heat:
If not central heat, indicate primary heat source and fuel type: _________________________________
Are the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in good working order?
No (explain)
Date of last HVAC servicing/inspection: ______________
Wood-burning stove or central gas fireplace not professionally installed?
Space heater used as primary heat source?
Is the source portable?
Does the air handler/condensate line or drain pan show any signs of blockage or leakage, including water damage to the surrounding area?
Yes No
Supplemental Information
Age of system: _____________
Year last updated: _____________
(Please attach photo(s) of HVAC equipment, including dated manufacturer’s plate)
Plumbing System
Is there a temperature pressure relief valve on the water heater?
Is there any indication of an active leak?
Is there any indication of a prior leak?
Water heater location: _______________________________________________
General condition of the following plumbing fixtures and connections to appliances:
Satisfactory Unsatisfactory
N/A
Dishwasher
Toilets
Refrigerator
Sinks
Washing machine
Sump pump
Water heater
Main shut off valve
Showers/Tubs
All other visible
If unsatisfactory, please provide comments/details (leaks, wet/soft spots, mold, corrosion, grout/caulk, etc.).
Age of Piping System:
Type of pipes (check all that apply)
_____
Original to home
Completely re-piped
PVC/CPVC
Partially re-piped
Galvanized
(Provide year and extent of renovation in the comments below)
PEX
Polybutylene
Other (specify)
Roof (With photos of each roof slope, this section can take the place of the Roof Inspection Form.)
Predominant Roof
Covering material: __________
Roof age (years): __________
Remaining useful life (years): __________
Date of last roofing permit: __________
Date of last update: __________
If updated (check one):
Full replacement Partial replacement
%of replacement: __________
Overall condition:
Unsatisfactory (explain below)
Any visible signs of damage / deterioration?
(check all that apply and explain below)
Cracking
Cupping/curling
Excessive granule loss
Exposed asphalt
Exposed felt
Missing/loose/cracked tabs or tiles
Soft spots in decking Visible hail damage
Any visible signs of leaks? Yes No
Attic/underside of decking Yes No
Interior ceilings Yes No
Secondary Roof
Additional Comments/Observations (use additional pages if needed):
All 4-Point Inspection Forms must be completed and signed by a verifiable Florida-licensed inspector. I certify that the above statements are true and correct.
Inspector Signature
Title
License Number
Date
Company Name
License Type
Work Phone
Special Instructions: This sample 4-Point Inspection Form includes the minimum data needed for Underwriting to properly evaluate a property application. While this specific form is not required, any other inspection report submitted for consideration must include at least this level of detail to be acceptable.
Photo Requirements
Photos must accompany each 4-Point Inspection Form. The minimum photo requirements include:
•Dwelling: Each side
•Roof: Each slope
•Plumbing: Water heater, under cabinet plumbing/drains, exposed valves
•Open main electrical panel and interior door
•Electrical box with the panel off
•All hazards or deficiencies
Inspector Requirements
To be accepted, all inspection forms must be completed, signed and dated by a verifiable Florida-licensed professional. Examples include:
•A general, residential, or building contractor
•A building code inspector
•A home inspector
Note: A trade-specific, licensed professional may sign off only on the inspection form section for their trade. (e.g., an electrician may sign off only on the electrical section of the form.)
Documenting the Condition of Each System
The Florida-licensed inspector is required to certify the condition of the roof, electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems. Acceptable Condition means that each system is working as intended and there are no visible hazards or deficiencies.
Additional Comments or Observations
This section of the 4-Point Inspection Form must be completed with full details/descriptions if any of the following are noted on the inspection:
•Updates: Identify the types of updates, dates completed and by whom
•Any visible hazards or deficiencies
•Any system determined not to be in good working order
Note to All Agents
The writing agent must review each 4-Point Inspection Form before it is submitted with an application for coverage. It is the agent’s responsibility to ensure that all rules and requirements are met before the application is bound. Agents may not submit applications for properties with electrical, heating or plumbing systems not in good working order or with existing hazards/deficiencies.
Understanding the 4-Point Inspection Form can be challenging, and several misconceptions often arise. Here are some common misunderstandings, along with clarifications to help you navigate the process more effectively.
This is not entirely true. While many insurance companies require this inspection for homes over 30 years old, newer homes may also need it if certain conditions apply, such as specific insurance requirements.
The 4-Point Inspection does not serve as a warranty. It simply assesses the current state of the roof, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems. The inspector notes any visible hazards, but unforeseen issues may still arise.
Only Florida-licensed inspectors can fill out and sign the 4-Point Inspection Form. It’s crucial to ensure that the inspector is qualified and meets the specific requirements outlined by insurance companies.
Photos are not optional. The form requires specific photos of each system and side of the dwelling. This visual documentation is essential for underwriting decisions.
The 4-Point Inspection focuses only on four key systems: roof, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing. It does not cover other aspects of the home, such as structural integrity or pest infestations.
Inspectors are there to evaluate and report on the condition of the systems, not to make repairs. Homeowners must address any issues independently after receiving the inspection report.
A 4-Point Inspection is not the same as an appraisal. An appraisal determines the market value of a property, while the 4-Point Inspection assesses the condition of specific systems for insurance purposes.
While it’s ideal to address known issues beforehand, the inspection will note existing deficiencies. Underwriting will consider these when determining insurability, but they do not necessarily need to be resolved prior to the inspection.
While primarily used for insurance, a 4-Point Inspection can also provide valuable insights for homeowners. It can highlight areas needing attention and help in planning future repairs or upgrades.
Home Inspection Report: Similar to the 4-Point Inspection Form, a home inspection report evaluates the overall condition of a property. It typically covers the roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, providing a comprehensive overview of any issues that may affect the property's safety and functionality.
Roof Inspection Report: This document focuses specifically on the condition of the roof. Like the 4-Point Inspection Form, it includes details about the roof covering material, age, and any visible damage or deterioration, ensuring that potential problems are documented.
Electrical Inspection Report: This report assesses the electrical systems of a property. It shares similarities with the 4-Point Inspection Form in that it details the condition of the main electrical panel, wiring type, and any hazards present, helping to determine the safety and functionality of the electrical system.
HVAC Inspection Report: An HVAC inspection report evaluates heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. It is akin to the 4-Point Inspection Form as it examines the condition and functionality of these systems, including age and maintenance history, ensuring that they are safe and effective.
Plumbing Inspection Report: This document focuses on the plumbing systems within a property. It is similar to the 4-Point Inspection Form in that it assesses the condition of pipes, fixtures, and any signs of leaks or damage, which are crucial for maintaining a safe living environment.