AndyWeiser.com

4 Point Inspection Basics

October 1, 2013
To insure your new home you will be most likely be required to have what is called a 4 Point inspection. This is required on most properties. The 4 point inspection is specifically for insurance purposes and is in addition to the general and WDO inspection that your contract to purchase will probably specify. The 4 point inspection covers the following:

ROOF: *Depending on the company you will need a roof certificate on all roofs over 15 years old, showing that there is a minimum of 5 years life expectancy remaining, with no active or visible leaks. *No missing, cracked or lifting tiles or shingle. They are difficult or impossible to insure unless repairs are made prior to binding insurance. * Rotted fascia board or other area need to be repaired.

ELECTRIC: * Except for Citizens Insurance, the following electric panels are unacceptable to most carriers: Challenger, Federal Pacific and Zinsco (subject to change). * Exposed wiring is unacceptable. * Depending on the type used, most aluminum wiring is inacceptable. * At least 100 amps of electrical service is required (subject to underwriting changes). * Some carriers do not accept fuses. Circuit breakers are required and must be grounded.

PLUMBING: * Polybutylene pipes are not acceptable to most companies with the exception of Lloyds of London and and other surplus line carriers. * No leaks are acceptable.

HEAT AND AIR CONDITIONING: * Central Air conditioning or wall units are required by most companies. * The unit(s) must be in good condition with a minimum of 3-5 years of life expectancy remaining depending on the carrier.

There are general guidelines. Some companies have different underwriting requirements.

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