Many Florida homeowners and buyers encounter the term 4-point inspection when working with insurance companies. The name leads some to believe this inspection is a scaled-down, budget-friendly version of a complete home inspection. That assumption is incorrect. The two inspections serve different purposes, are structured differently, and are intended for completely different audiences.
Purpose of a Full Home Inspection
A full home inspection evaluates the entire property for the benefit of a buyer or homeowner. It examines all accessible systems and components, documents current conditions, and identifies defects, safety hazards, and maintenance concerns. This process provides a detailed view of the property’s strengths and weaknesses.
Areas typically covered include:
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Structural components such as the foundation, framing, and roof framing
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Roofing materials and drainage
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Plumbing fixtures, supply lines, and waste lines
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Electrical systems, outlets, breakers, and visible wiring
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HVAC systems, ductwork, and ventilation
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Interior and exterior finishes
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Insulation and ventilation in attics and crawlspaces
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Appliances included in the sale
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Site grading, drainage, and retaining walls
The findings from this type of inspection help buyers make informed purchasing decisions, plan for repairs, and negotiate with sellers. Homeowners use them to maintain their property and address issues before they become costly.
Purpose of a 4-Point Inspection
A 4-point inspection is entirely different. It is not designed to uncover all deficiencies in the home. Its purpose is to meet the documentation needs of insurance underwriters. Many insurance companies require this type of inspection before issuing or renewing a homeowner’s policy for an older property.
The focus is limited to four systems:
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Roof – Age, condition, and remaining useful life
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Electrical system – Type of wiring, age of panel, safety hazards
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Plumbing system – Pipe materials, visible leaks, functional concerns
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HVAC system – Age, type, operational status
The 4-point inspection report is written for insurance carriers, not for buyers. Insurance companies review it to decide whether the property presents an acceptable risk. For example, they may want to confirm that the electrical system is updated and safe, the plumbing is free from active leaks, and the roof is not near the end of its life.
Why They Are Not Interchangeable
Because the scope of a 4-point inspection is so narrow, it does not address many critical areas a buyer would want reviewed in a purchase decision. Important components such as the foundation, attic insulation, interior finishes, appliances, grading and drainage, or general structural soundness are outside its scope.
Relying on a 4-point inspection instead of a full home inspection when buying a property leaves large gaps in knowledge. The insurance company’s needs are not the same as the buyer’s needs.
Chart: Scope Comparison – Full Home Inspection vs. 4-Point Inspection
| System / Component | Full Home Inspection | 4-Point Inspection |
|---|---|---|
| Roof covering condition | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Roof framing | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Electrical wiring & outlets | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Plumbing fixtures & supply | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Drainage and grading | ✔️ | ❌ |
| HVAC operation | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Insulation | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Appliances | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Structural components | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Interior & exterior finishes | ✔️ | ❌ |
How Insurance Companies Use 4-Point Results
Insurance carriers use the report to determine if the home’s major systems meet their underwriting standards. If a system is outdated or unsafe, the insurer may require repairs or upgrades before issuing coverage. In some cases, the insurer may decline to insure the property until certain conditions are corrected.
How Buyers Should Approach Inspections
When purchasing a home, a full home inspection should be the primary tool for evaluating property condition. A 4-point inspection may still be necessary if the insurance company requests it, but it should be treated as a separate step that serves the insurer, not the buyer.
Buyers who skip a full inspection risk missing costly issues that would have been identified in a more comprehensive evaluation.
Additional Services
By Builder Home Inspections provides both full home inspections and insurance-required 4-point inspections. Costs for services are clearly outlined on the home inspection cost page, allowing homeowners and buyers to plan accordingly.
Booking an Inspection
Scheduling can be done through the contact page. This page provides options for phone, email, and online request forms, making it straightforward to arrange either a full home inspection or a 4-point inspection.
