How is a 4-point inspection different from a complete home inspection?

A 4-point inspection is narrowly focused on four systems and generates a concise report for your insurance company. A complete home inspection follows InterNACHI Standards of Practice and thoroughly evaluates every system and component of the home, delivering a detailed report for the homeowner's decision-making. They serve different audiences with different purposes — and should not be interchanged.

4-Point Insurance Inspection in Missouri

A targeted, professional inspection of your home's four critical systems — formatted for your insurance company's requirements and delivered promptly.

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What Is a 4-Point Insurance Inspection?

A Four-Point Insurance Inspection is a limited, visual survey of a home's four primary systems, performed when required by an insurance company. It is typically requested to obtain a new homeowner's insurance policy or to renew an existing one — particularly when a home reaches a certain age or a policy change occurs.

The inspection focuses exclusively on: Roof, HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing — plus a minor foundation review. Unlike a complete home inspection, it does not evaluate the entire property. The resulting report is formatted specifically for the insurance carrier.

When Insurance Companies Require
a 4-Point Inspection

Each system receives a limited visual evaluation. The inspector documents condition, estimated age, materials, and any observable concerns relevant to insurance coverage.

Your home has reached a certain age (commonly 25–40+ years, varying by insurer)
You are obtaining a new homeowner's insurance policy
You are switching insurance carriers or renewing an existing policy
A policy change occurs that triggers your insurer's review requirements
Your insurer requires documentation before binding or continuing coverage

About the Report

The 4-point inspection report is specifically designed to satisfy insurance requirements. It documents system condition, age, and material type in the concise format insurers expect — not the comprehensive narrative of a full home inspection.

The report is intended to be shared directly with your insurance company and is formatted accordingly. Reports are delivered promptly after the inspection.

Formatted for insurance company submission
Delivered promptly after inspection
Priced to reflect limited, targeted scope

4-Point Inspection vs. Complete Home Inspection

These are two distinct services with very different purposes. Understanding the difference will help you order the right inspection — and avoid sharing the wrong report with your insurance company.

Feature

4-Point Inspection (Insurance)

Complete Home Inspection (InterNACHI SOP)

Primary Purpose

Satisfy insurance company requirements for coverage

Evaluate the full condition of a home for buyers, sellers, or owners

Scope

Roof, HVAC, Electrical & Plumbing + minor foundation review only

All systems and components per InterNACHI Standards of Practice — entire home

Intended Audience

Insurance carrier — report is meant to be submitted to your insurer

Homeowner, buyer, or seller — report is your personal decision-making tool

Report Detail

Limited and targeted — documents types, ages, and visible conditions

Comprehensive — detailed findings, photos, videos, and maintenance recommendations

Share with Insurer?

Yes — this is the intended use

No — not formatted for insurance & should not be shared

Covers Appliances

Yes — dishwasher, range, exhaust fans, garage door operator, and more

Interior Rooms

Yes — kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and common areas

Attics & Crawlspace?

Limited — only as visible/accessible to the four systems

Yes — full inspection of attic, basement, and crawlspace

Pricing

Lower — priced to reflect the limited, targeted scope

Flat-rate based on home size — comprehensive inspection value

Standards Followed

Insurance industry 4-point format requirements

InterNACHI Standards of Practice

Client Protections

Not Included

Included at no charge — Buy-Back Guarantee & Warranty Program (T&C's)

Do Not Share Your Full Home Inspection Report with Your Insurance Company

A complete home inspection report is detailed, comprehensive, and not formatted for insurance review. It may be misinterpreted by underwriters and is not designed for that purpose. If your insurance company requests an inspection report, you need a 4-point inspection — a separate, dedicated service distinct from a general home inspection.

The right inspection for where you are

Delivered in a concise, professional format that meets your insurance company's requirements. The report is focused on the four systems that determine your coverage eligibility.

Roof System

Covering type and material, estimated age, visible condition, and any concerns noted at the time of inspection.

HVAC System

Heating and cooling equipment type, fuel source, estimated age, and observable operating condition.

Electrical System

Main panel brand, service amperage, wiring type (copper, aluminum, knob-and-tube), and visible safety concerns.

Plumbing System

Supply and drain pipe materials, water heater age and condition, and any visible leaks or notable plumbing concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions About 4-Point

What is a 4-point inspection and what does it cover?

A 4-point inspection is a limited, visual survey of four primary home systems: (1) Roof, (2) HVAC (heating and cooling), (3) Electrical, and (4) Plumbing — plus a minor foundation review. It is requested by insurance companies to evaluate risk before issuing or renewing a homeowner's policy. It does not cover appliances, interior rooms, attic, crawlspace, or any systems outside the four primary ones.

When do I need a 4-point inspection in Missouri?

You typically need a 4-point inspection when your home reaches a certain age (commonly 25–40+ years, depending on your insurer), when applying for a new homeowner's insurance policy, switching carriers, or renewing a policy where the insurer requires documentation. Requirements vary by carrier — check with your insurance company or agent if you're unsure.

Can I give my full home inspection report to my insurance company?

No — and this is an important distinction. A complete home inspection report is comprehensive, detailed, and not formatted for insurance review. It contains findings and commentary that may be misinterpreted by an underwriter. If your insurance company requests an inspection report, you need a dedicated 4-point inspection — not your general home inspection report.

How long does a 4-point inspection take?

A 4-point insurance inspection typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the home's size and the accessibility of its systems. Because the scope is limited to four specific systems, it is significantly faster than a full home inspection.

How much does a 4-point inspection cost in O'Fallon or St. Charles County?

A 4-point inspection is priced lower than a full home inspection because of its limited scope — you pay for exactly what you need. Tech Inspect Home Services LLC provides transparent, flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees. View our pricing page to get your exact price without a phone call.

Who orders the 4-point inspection - my or my insurance agent?

The homeowner typically orders and pays for the 4-point inspection directly with a licensed home inspector. Your insurance company or agent will notify you that one is required, but the scheduling and payment is handled between you and the inspector. The completed report is then shared with your insurer as part of the policy application or renewal process.

Transparent, Targeted Pricing

Because a 4-point inspection focuses only on four systems, it is priced significantly lower than a complete home inspection. You pay for exactly what you need — with no hidden fees added at checkout.

Use our instant quote tool to see your exact price in seconds — no phone call required, no guesswork.

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