A four-point home inspection is a limited assessment typically required by insurance companies for older homes, usually those 20 years or older. It focuses on four key areas of the house: the roof, electrical system, plumbing system, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. Roof: The inspector will assess the roof's condition, looking for signs of damage, such as missing or broken shingles, leaks, or any areas prone to potential issues. They might also inspect the condition of the chimney, if applicable. ​ Electrical System: This inspection involves checking the electrical panel, looking for outdated or unsafe wiring, verifying that circuits are properly labeled, and ensuring that the electrical system meets current safety standards. They may also check for any signs of electrical hazards. ​ Plumbing System: The inspector will examine the plumbing system, including pipes, fixtures, and drains. They'll look for leaks, corrosion, water pressure issues, and ensure that the plumbing meets current codes. ​ HVAC System: This part of the inspection involves evaluating the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Inspectors will check for proper functioning, potential leaks, age of the system, and ensure it's in good working condition. ​ The goal of a four-point inspection is to provide insurance companies with a concise evaluation of these crucial systems in the home. It's important to note that this inspection is not as comprehensive as a full home inspection and is often requested by insurance companies to assess the insurability of the property based on the condition of these major components. & A residential wind mitigation inspection is an assessment specifically aimed at determining the preparedness and resistance of a home to damage from strong winds, such as those that occur during hurricanes or severe storms. This inspection is typically performed by a qualified inspector or a licensed contractor who specializes in wind mitigation. ​ Here are the key aspects covered in a residential wind mitigation inspection: ​ Roof Covering: The inspector will assess the type, age, and condition of the roof covering material (such as shingles, tiles, or metal sheets). The aim is to determine its ability to resist wind uplift and damage during strong storms. ​ Roof Deck Attachment: This involves examining how the roof deck (the layer beneath the roofing material) is connected to the underlying structure. The inspector checks for the strength and type of fasteners used, like nails or screws, to ensure they meet or exceed local building codes for wind resistance. ​ Roof-to-Wall Connections: Inspectors examine how the roof is attached to the walls of the house. They check for the strength and type of connectors used, like hurricane straps or clips, to determine the home's ability to withstand wind forces. ​ Roof Geometry: The shape and structure of the roof can impact its resistance to wind damage. Hip roofs (with slopes on all sides) tend to fare better than gable roofs (with two slopes meeting at a ridge) during high winds. The inspector notes the roof's geometry as it relates to wind resistance. ​ Secondary Water Resistance: This involves inspecting additional protective measures like special sealants, membranes, or materials installed to prevent water intrusion in case the primary roof covering is damaged during a storm. ​ Opening Protection: Inspectors check the strength and integrity of windows, doors, and other openings (such as garage doors) to determine if they are impact-resistant, have storm shutters, or meet local building code standards for wind protection. ​ The results of a wind mitigation inspection can sometimes lead to insurance discounts or credits if the home is found to have features that enhance its wind resistance. This inspection helps homeowners understand their home's vulnerability to wind damage and allows them to take necessary measures to strengthen their property against potential wind-related risks.