From filling out forms to providing inspection reports, there can be so much paperwork involved when hunting for insurance! In a previous article, we discussed what 4 Point Inspections are and why you may need one. Here, let’s get into the minds of an inspector and discuss exactly what they will be looking for when performing a 4 Point Inspection on your home!
Electrical System:
The inspector will state the type of panel - circuit breaker or fuse - including the total amperage used to service for the entire house and if this is sufficient for the current usage. They will also advise the type of wiring throughout the home including copper, aluminum (single or multi-strand), cloth, or knob & tube. If there is single strand aluminum wiring present, most insurance carriers will require it be remediated to add COPALUM or Alumiconn connections in order to bring it up to code. The inspector will state if there are any hazards present in the panel or located throughout the home including, but not limited to: empty sockets, double taps, exposed wiring, unsafe wiring, scotching, corrosion, loose wiring, and improper grounding or breaker size. At the end of the electrical section, the inspector notes the age of the panel, year last updated, the brand/model and if the electrical system is in satisfactory or unsatisfactory condition.
HVAC(Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) System:
When the inspector evaluates the HVAC system, they will advise if the home has central AC and Heat or not, as well as if the system is in good working condition or if there are any signs of blockage, leakage, or any present water damage. Additional hazards to note are if the primary heat source is a space heater or a wood-burning stove or portable. The inspector will also note the age of the system, the year last updated and the date of the last servicing/inspection.
Plumbing System:
The plumbing section indicates the general condition of the dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine, water heater, showers/tubs, toilets, sinks, sump pump, main shut off valve, and all other visible plumbing. The inspector will mark satisfactory, unsatisfactory, or not applicable. If unsatisfactory is marked, the inspector will provide additional comments/details regarding this item in the plumbing section. Things like wet/soft spots, active leaks, mold, corrosion, etc are common in unsatisfactory conditions. The inspector will also note the type of plumbing present in the home and if there have been any updates, either partially or completely re-piped.
Roof System:
The inspector will advise the type of roof installed, age of the roof, date of the last roofing permit, remaining life expectancy of the roof, if the roof was a full or partial replacement and overall condition (satisfactory or unsatisfactory). They will note any signs of damage/deterioration preset including: cracking, cupping/curling, excessive granule loss, exposed asphalt, exposed felt, missing/loose/cracked tabs or tiles, soft spots in decking, visible hail damage, and any signs of leaks. This will be noted for both the primary and if a secondary roof is present.
These four areas of your home most commonly result in claims, so it is important for these areas to be evaluated every few years. Have questions about these inspections, or anything insurance related? Contact us today!