Blank 4 Point Inspection Form

1. What is a 4-Point Inspection Form?

   The 4-Point Inspection Form is a document used primarily by insurance companies to evaluate the condition of a property. It focuses on four key systems: electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and the roof. This assessment helps determine the insurability of the property.

2. Who is required to complete the 4-Point Inspection Form?

   A licensed inspector in Florida must complete, sign, and date the form. This ensures that the inspection is conducted by a qualified professional who can accurately assess the condition of the property’s systems.

3. What are the minimum photo requirements for the inspection?

   The form requires photos to accompany the inspection report. The minimum requirements include:

   • Each side of the dwelling
   • Each slope of the roof
   • Water heater and under-cabinet plumbing/drains
   • Open main electrical panel with the interior door label
   • Electrical box with the panel off
   • Any noted hazards or deficiencies
4. What systems are evaluated in the 4-Point Inspection?

   The inspection evaluates four main systems:

   • Electrical System: This includes checking the main panel, wiring type, and any potential hazards.
   • HVAC System: The inspector assesses whether the heating and cooling systems are functioning properly.
   • Plumbing System: This involves checking for leaks, the condition of fixtures, and the overall plumbing setup.
   • Roof: The inspector evaluates the roof's condition, age, and any visible signs of damage.
5. What happens if a system is found to be unsatisfactory?

   If any system is deemed unsatisfactory, the inspector must provide details in the comments section. This may include specific issues like leaks, corrosion, or any hazards that could affect the property’s safety and insurability.

6. Can any licensed professional complete the form?

   No, only Florida-licensed inspectors can complete the form. Examples include general contractors, building inspectors, or home inspectors. However, trade-specific professionals can only sign off on the section related to their expertise.

7. What is the significance of the 4-Point Inspection for insurance?

   Insurance companies use the information from the 4-Point Inspection to assess risk and determine whether to provide coverage. It helps them identify potential hazards and the overall condition of the property, which can affect premiums and policy terms.

8. How often should a 4-Point Inspection be conducted?

   A 4-Point Inspection is typically required when a property is being insured for the first time or when there are significant changes to the property. Regular inspections are recommended to ensure that the systems remain in good working order and to maintain insurance coverage.

9. What should property owners do after receiving the inspection results?

   Property owners should review the inspection results carefully. If any systems are flagged as unsatisfactory, it’s essential to address these issues promptly. This may involve repairs or updates to ensure the property meets insurance requirements and remains safe.

Completing the 4-Point Inspection form accurately is crucial for ensuring proper evaluation of a property application. However, several common mistakes can occur during this process. First, individuals often neglect to provide complete information in the Insured/Applicant Name and Application/Policy # fields. Missing or incorrect data in these sections can lead to delays in processing and potential issues with coverage.

Second, failing to include the Date Inspected can hinder the assessment of the property's current condition. This date is essential for determining whether the inspection is recent enough to be relevant for underwriting purposes. Similarly, many overlook the Minimum Photo Requirements. Each side of the dwelling and various aspects of the roof and plumbing must be documented with clear photographs. Inadequate visual evidence can result in the rejection of the form.

Another frequent error is not indicating the presence of specific hazards in the Electrical System section. Items such as double taps, exposed wiring, and improper grounding must be noted. Ignoring these details can mislead underwriters about the safety of the electrical systems in place. Additionally, the general condition of the electrical system should be assessed accurately. Describing it as Satisfactory when it is not can have serious implications.

Moreover, some inspectors fail to provide detailed explanations when marking Unsatisfactory conditions. This lack of commentary can leave underwriters without crucial context for understanding the issues present. In the HVAC System section, indicating whether systems are in good working order without supporting explanations can also lead to misunderstandings about their condition.

In the plumbing section, not specifying the Type of pipes can be problematic. It is important to identify whether the plumbing is original, re-piped, or made of specific materials like PVC or PEX. This information is vital for assessing potential risks. Furthermore, failing to document the Age of Piping System can lead to assumptions about the plumbing’s reliability.

Another common mistake occurs in the Roof section. Individuals may forget to provide information about the Predominant Roof Covering material and the Roof age. Such omissions can prevent a thorough evaluation of the roof's condition and its expected lifespan. Additionally, neglecting to check for visible signs of damage or leaks can result in an incomplete assessment.

Lastly, the section for Additional Comments/Observations is often underutilized. This area allows for important insights regarding updates, hazards, or deficiencies that may not fit neatly into the structured sections of the form. Failing to use this section effectively can lead to a lack of important context for underwriters.

In conclusion, attention to detail is paramount when completing the 4-Point Inspection form. By avoiding these common mistakes, individuals can ensure that their submissions are complete and accurate, facilitating a smoother underwriting process.

The 4-Point Inspection Form is a critical document used in the assessment of a property's insurability. However, several other forms and documents are often required alongside it to provide a comprehensive evaluation. Below is a list of these additional documents, each serving a specific purpose in the inspection and underwriting process.

• Roof Inspection Form: This form details the condition of the roof, including materials used, age, and any visible damage. It may be required if the 4-Point Inspection does not sufficiently cover roof specifics.
• Electrical Inspection Report: This report focuses solely on the electrical system. It includes details about wiring, panel condition, and any hazards present, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• HVAC Inspection Report: This document evaluates the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. It provides insights into the system's age, maintenance history, and overall functionality.
• Plumbing Inspection Report: This report assesses the plumbing system, including pipes, fixtures, and appliances. It identifies any leaks or deficiencies that could impact insurability.
• Insurance Application Form: This form collects essential information about the applicant and the property. It is necessary for underwriting and determining coverage eligibility.
• Homeowner’s Insurance Policy: This document outlines the coverage terms and conditions for the property. It is critical for understanding the protections available to the homeowner.
• Disclosure Statement: This statement is provided by the seller and includes information about the property’s condition, history, and any known issues. It helps in assessing risk factors.
• Contractor's Certification: A licensed contractor may need to certify any repairs or renovations made to the property, especially if they pertain to electrical, plumbing, or structural systems.

Gathering these documents is essential for a thorough evaluation of the property. Each one plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with insurance requirements and protecting both the homeowner and the insurer.

• Home Inspection Report: Similar to the 4 Point Inspection form, a home inspection report evaluates the overall condition of a property. It covers various systems, including roofing, plumbing, and electrical, and provides detailed observations about the home’s condition. Both documents require a licensed inspector to complete them and rely on visual assessments.
• Roof Inspection Report: This document focuses specifically on the roof's condition, detailing materials, age, and any visible damage. Like the 4 Point Inspection form, it includes photo documentation and requires a licensed professional to verify the findings, ensuring that the roof is safe and functional.
• Electrical Inspection Report: This report assesses the electrical systems within a property. It identifies potential hazards, such as outdated wiring or inadequate amperage, similar to the electrical section of the 4 Point Inspection form. Both documents aim to ensure the electrical systems are safe and compliant with regulations.
• HVAC Inspection Report: An HVAC inspection report evaluates the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. It shares similarities with the HVAC section of the 4 Point Inspection form by documenting the system's condition, age, and any maintenance issues. Both reports require licensed professionals to provide accurate assessments.
• Plumbing Inspection Report: This document examines the plumbing systems in a property, identifying leaks, corrosion, and overall functionality. Like the plumbing section of the 4 Point Inspection form, it requires a thorough evaluation by a licensed inspector, ensuring that all plumbing systems are in good working order.
• Insurance Underwriting Inspection Report: This report is used by insurance companies to assess the risk associated with insuring a property. It shares the same purpose as the 4 Point Inspection form by providing detailed information about the condition of major systems. Both documents are critical in determining insurability and require licensed professionals for completion.

When filling out the 4 Point Inspection form, it’s essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here’s a helpful list of what to do and what to avoid:

• Do provide complete and accurate information for the insured/applicant name and address.
• Do include the actual year built and the date of inspection.
• Do attach all required photos for each section as specified in the form.
• Do ensure that a Florida-licensed inspector completes, signs, and dates the form.
• Do describe any hazards or deficiencies in detail.
• Don’t leave any sections blank; fill out all required fields to avoid delays.
• Don’t submit the form without verifying that all information is correct.
• Don’t overlook the need for separate documentation for any aluminum wiring remediation.
• Don’t forget to review the form thoroughly before submission to ensure compliance with underwriting requirements.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth inspection process and facilitate the underwriting evaluation.

• Misconception 1: The 4-Point Inspection form guarantees insurability.

  This form does not provide a warranty or assurance of the property's systems. It merely helps assess insurability based on the inspector's findings.

• Misconception 2: Any inspector can complete the form.

  Only a Florida-licensed inspector can fill out and sign the 4-Point Inspection form. This requirement ensures that the inspection meets state standards.

• Misconception 3: The form is only for older homes.

  While many older homes require a 4-Point Inspection for insurance, newer homes may also need one, especially if they have specific issues or updates.

• Misconception 4: The inspection is comprehensive and covers all potential issues.

  The 4-Point Inspection focuses on four main systems: roof, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing. It does not cover every aspect of the property.

• Misconception 5: Photos are optional for the inspection.

  Photos are a mandatory part of the 4-Point Inspection. They must document each system and any visible issues to support the inspector's findings.

• Ensure all required information is filled out completely, including the insured/applicant name, application/policy number, and address inspected.

• Document the actual year built and the date of inspection accurately to provide context for the inspection results.

• Include the minimum required photos: each side of the dwelling, each slope of the roof, and key plumbing and electrical components.

• Utilize a Florida-licensed inspector to complete, sign, and date the form, as underwriting relies heavily on their expertise.

• Understand that the information gathered is crucial for determining insurability, but does not guarantee the systems' long-term performance.

• When assessing the electrical system, indicate any presence of hazards such as double taps or exposed wiring, and provide details on any aluminum wiring remediation.

• For the HVAC system, confirm whether it is in good working order and note the date of the last servicing or inspection.

• Evaluate the plumbing system carefully, noting any leaks or concerns, and document the type and age of pipes used in the property.

• Complete the roof section thoroughly, detailing the condition and any visible damage, and provide photos of each slope as required.