Difference Between 4 Point and Home Inspection

     This is the common question that is being asked by buyers when they learned what 4 Point Inspection covers. Both of these inspections have the same objective, which is to inform potential buyers of any problems or damage to the property. But what's their difference and is it worth spending additional dollar?

What is a 4 Point Inspection?

• ​A four point is NOT a pre-purchase/pre-sale home inspection, which is much more comprehensive in nature. 
• This only satisfies insurance carrier requirements of 4 particular home systems:

        * Plumbing
        * Electrical
        * HVAC
        * Roof

• A 4 point report ONLY reports on specific items for these systems that the insurance companies need to verify if the home is insurable. ​

​      Only these important areas are the focus of this visual examination. This is so because the home's HVAC system, electrical wiring, and related systems pose the greatest hazards. Especially in more aged structures.

What is a Home Inspection?

• The home inspection looks at the physical structure and primary systems of the home to report on whether the components and systems are working as intended to on the day of the inspection.

• This also reports defects that could negatively affect the value of the property and/or pose danger to someone.

• It covers more ground than a 4-point checklist and will find most significant issues with a house. A thorough assessment looks at the following areas:
  

• Exterior
• Interior
• Appliances
• Grading and drainage
• Plumbing
• Electrical system
• Doors and windows

​     In conclusion, both the comprehensive home inspection and the four point inspection have their uses. A thorough home inspection is always advised in addition to the four-point inspection that your home insurance company mandates. There is some similarity between the two, but their functions are completely different:
​

• The comprehensive home inspection provides you information you may use to decide whether to buy a home
• While the 4 point inspection gives you critical information on insurability of the home.