Whether you buy or already own a house, certain tests aren’t just useful – they may be necessary. A 4-point test is one of the necessary check-in checks if you are applying for homeowner insurance or renewing your insurance policy. But what is a 4-point test?
Unlike standard home inspections, four-point inspections are zero for four key systems: roof, electricity, plumbing, and HVAC. Insurers use a 4-point inspection to establish potential risks before issuing or renewing a homeowner’s insurance.
Older homes are usually at risk to insurance companies, but even newer homes can go through a 4-point inspection process at some point. Whether your home is in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, or Kansas City, Missouri, there are what you can expect from this type of test.
What is a 4-point test?
What exactly does a 4-point test sound like? We take a closer look at the four important parts of the house: the roof, electricity, plumbing and HVAC. Instead of going through the house thoroughly, like a regular home inspection, the inspector will look at these core home systems temporarily to see how old they are, whether they are in good condition, and whether there are obvious safety issues.
Why do insurance companies require a 4-point test?
Insurance companies use 4-point testing to protect themselves from underwriting risky real estate.
Homes at least 20-30 years old require a 4-point test in most cases, as important household functions are due to age. However, as major system issues can lead to expensive billing, even new homes ages 4-5 may need to be inspected before the policy is issued.
Florida is a state where, regardless of the age of the home, usually requires a four-point test. Severe weather conditions such as heat, hurricanes and flooding can be challenging in homes and condominiums in the area, making regular inspections important.
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By requesting buyers and homeowners for a 4-point inspection, the insurer can decide whether to provide a policy, refuse coverage, or seek repairs before initiating or continuing coverage.
What is the 4-point inspection cover?
Once a licensed inspector performs a 4-point inspection, they take a closer look at these important parts of your home.
Roof: Inspectors look at age, materials, condition and visible damage. Roof leaks and deteriorating roofs are one of the biggest red flags for insurance companies. Electricity: Outdated or unsafe wiring, such as knobs and tubes and aluminum wiring, can be flagged as a fire hazard. Piping: Leaks, corrosion, pipe materials are all evaluated during a 4-point inspection. High-risk materials such as polybutylene (PB) pipes can be denied coverage. HVAC: Heating, ventilation and air conditioning must function properly. In some areas, a lack of central heating could result in disqualification.
The cosmetics issue here is not a concern. This inspection is to ensure that your home is safe and there is no major risk of liability.
4-point test vs. home test
Both a 4-point inspection and a standard home inspection allow you to view the home using a licensed inspector, but each inspection serves a clear purpose. The test is not necessarily replaceable.
From the cost range to who completes it, these are the key differences between each type of inspection.
Due diligence for 4-point testing home inspection Eligibility Evaluation Assessment Officer is usually hardworking during the purchase of an older home or home in a high-risk area. Highly recommended for home buyers, but scopefocuses primarily in four areas of the home: roof, roof, hygiene extel, hygiene analysis. Concerns etc. Size and complexity of a home range, typically from 30-60 minutes to 30-4 hours or more, from 50-4 hours or more, $50-$175 (paid by the buyer or homeowner) $300-$500+ (usually paid by the seller) Report Usehelps determines insurance approval or identifies standard terms where potential coverage or conditions are. Form detail and multi-page documents with photos and recommendations
How to prepare for a 4-point test
If your insurance company requests a 4-point inspection, there are various ways to either buy a home or prepare based on whether the homeowner’s insurance is renewed.
If you’re buying a house
As a buyer, a 4-point inspection is usually performed if the insurance provider requests it after the offer is accepted. Though it’s not as thorough as a complete home inspection you might already be schedule, a four-point inspection is still important if you need insurance to fund and close your home.
Please check the seller’s disclosures and home inspection reports in advance. If the roof is old, the electrical system is outdated, or if the HVAC doesn’t function properly, these items could raise the insurance company’s red flag. Knowing these potential issues in advance will allow you to have time to negotiate repairs and consider other options before applying for insurance.
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If you already own your home
Maybe your current insurance company asked for a 4-point test before updating your policy, or you’ll shop at a better price. In any case, roaming the insurance company and looking at the key areas you see ahead can help you ensure there are no surprises that could affect your policy.
Inspect and repair the roof
Insurance companies will want to know that your roof is free of risk of leaks or structural failures. Replace missing or cracked shingles, check for sagging and soft spots, clean the grooves and prevent drainage issues. If your roof has been replaced in the last 10-15 years, provide a copy of your receipt or contractor’s invoice to show proof.
Update or document your electrical system
Open the circuit breaker panel and make sure it’s easy to access. If your home still has old aluminum or knob and tube wiring, this can be a problem with your insurance company. If you upgrade the panel or rewire parts of your home, collect a permit or electrician’s bill to indicate that the electricity is safe and up to the cord.
Check your plumbing for leaks or outdated materials
Look around the sink, water heater, and under the crawl space for signs of leaks or corrosion. Insurance companies can be noisy about pipe materials, so it’s helpful to know what kind of pipes your home uses. If you have upgraded your plumbing, prepare the documentation.
Provides services to HVAC systems
Make sure your heating and cooling system is working and is well maintained. Change the filter, make debris clear from vents or external units, or keep your service record handy if your HVAC has been recently repaired or replaced.
What happens if you don’t pass the 4-point test?
There are no clear passes/failures for the 4-point inspection, but issues found during inspections can affect your ability to obtain or maintain coverage. While the inspection report may not be completely defeated by the homeowner’s insurance, the insurance company may respond below.
Completely negate coverage: This is more likely when multiple issues exist, or when the problem comes with high risk factors such as old roofs or knob and tube wiring. Limited coverage provision: Some insurers may exclude certain systems, such as roofs and plumbing, until repairs are made. Request repairs before approval: Insurers may offer conditional offers that are dependent on addressing certain issues within a set time frame. We recommend another type of policy: In some cases, you may be piloted towards a surplus line insurer or risky plan with higher premiums and less protection.
Even if you are denied coverage or present conditions that you cannot meet, you still have options. Get a second opinion from another inspector, complete repairs, or try shopping for a more flexible insurance provider.
You don’t always need to have a test to get insurance
Not all home buyers or homeowners are required to undergo a 4-point inspection before securing homeowner insurance, but it is becoming an increasingly common requirement, especially for older homes and homes in high-risk areas.
The need for testing often depends on:
Age of House: Homes over 20-30 are more likely to require a 4-point test. Location of the home: Insurers in states like Florida, Louisiana, Texas and California, where weather damage is more common, almost always seek testing. Insurance Company Policy: Some companies require inspection of all new policies in their old homes. Others only ask if a particular issue is found during underwriting. Home Condition: Even new homes can cause inspection requirements if there are visible wear, previous claims, or incomplete maintenance.
Whether you’re buying a home or renewing your homeowner’s insurance, it’s wise to prepare for a 4-point inspection. Understanding what it covers (and why insurance companies want it) will help you make informed decisions about your coverage and make your home run smoothly and safely.
