Breaking Down the Four-Point Home Review

When it comes to buying or selling a home in Oklahoma, understanding the inspection process is crucial. One inspection that often comes up, especially for older homes, is the four-point home review. This inspection focuses on four key areas of a property to help insurance companies and buyers assess the home's condition quickly and efficiently. Today, I want to break down this process for you, so you know exactly what to expect and how it can benefit you.

What Is a Four-Point Home Review?

A four-point home review is a targeted inspection that looks at four major components of a house: the roof, electrical system, plumbing, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). Unlike a full home inspection, which covers every nook and cranny, this review zeroes in on these critical systems to determine if the home is insurable or if there are any immediate concerns.

Think of it like a quick health check-up for your home. Instead of a full physical, the doctor checks your heart, lungs, blood pressure, and reflexes to get a snapshot of your health. Similarly, the four-point home review gives a snapshot of the home's overall condition in these four areas.

This inspection is especially important in Oklahoma, where weather conditions like hailstorms and tornadoes can impact a home's roof and structure. Insurance companies often require this review before issuing or renewing policies on homes over a certain age.

Home inspector checking roof condition during four-point home review

Why the Four-Point Home Review Matters for Oklahoma Buyers and Agents

If you’re buying a home in Oklahoma, especially an older one, the four-point home review can save you from unexpected surprises. For example, imagine you fall in love with a charming 1970s bungalow, but the roof is nearing the end of its life. Without this inspection, you might not know about the potential for leaks or damage until after you move in.

For real estate agents, understanding this process helps you guide your clients better. You can advise sellers to get the review done early, which can speed up the insurance approval process and prevent last-minute delays. It also helps buyers negotiate repairs or price adjustments based on the findings.

Here’s what you can expect from each component of the review:

• Roof: Inspectors check the age, condition, and type of roofing material. They look for signs of damage, leaks, or wear that could lead to problems.

• Electrical System: This includes the main panel, wiring, and outlets. Inspectors look for outdated or unsafe wiring, which is common in older homes.

• Plumbing: The focus is on the type of pipes, water heater, and visible leaks or corrosion.

• HVAC: Inspectors assess the heating and cooling systems to ensure they are functioning properly and safely.

  
  

This focused approach helps insurance companies decide if the home meets their guidelines or if repairs are needed before coverage can be approved.

What is done in a 4 point inspection in Florida?

While my focus is on Oklahoma, it’s worth noting that the four-point inspection process is similar in other states like Florida, but with some regional differences. In Florida, inspectors pay extra attention to hurricane-resistant features and the condition of the roof due to the high risk of storms. They also check for signs of water damage from heavy rains and flooding.

The inspection still covers the same four areas - roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC - but the criteria might be stricter because of the climate. For example, Florida homes often require impact-resistant windows or reinforced roofing materials, which are part of the inspection checklist.

Understanding these regional nuances helps buyers and agents in Oklahoma appreciate why the four-point home review is tailored to local conditions and risks.

Electrical panel inspection as part of four-point home review

How to Prepare for a Four-Point Home Review

Preparation is key to a smooth inspection. Here are some practical tips to get your home ready:

1. Gather Documentation: Have records of any recent repairs or upgrades to the roof, electrical system, plumbing, or HVAC. This can help the inspector and insurance company understand the home’s history.

2. Clear Access: Make sure the inspector can easily access the attic, electrical panel, water heater, and HVAC units. Remove any clutter or obstacles.

3. Fix Minor Issues: If you know of small leaks or outdated outlets, consider addressing them before the inspection. This can improve the report and potentially save on insurance costs.

4. Be Present: If possible, be there during the inspection. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and get a firsthand look at any concerns.

   
   

By taking these steps, you show that you care about the home’s condition and are proactive about maintenance. This builds trust with insurers and buyers alike.

What Happens After the Four-Point Home Review?

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the condition of each of the four areas. This report is often required by insurance companies before they issue or renew a policy.

If the report highlights issues, don’t panic. Many problems can be fixed with straightforward repairs. For example, replacing an old water heater or updating electrical wiring can make a big difference. Sometimes, the insurer might require a licensed contractor to verify that repairs were done properly.

For buyers, this report is a powerful negotiation tool. If the inspection reveals significant issues, you can ask the seller to make repairs or adjust the sale price accordingly. For sellers, having a clean four-point home review report can speed up the sale and make your home more attractive to buyers.

Remember, this inspection is not about finding every tiny flaw but about ensuring the home’s major systems are safe and functional.

Why Choose D1 for Your Four-Point Home Review?

At D1, we go beyond the basic checklist. We understand that every home is unique, especially here in Oklahoma. Our inspectors don’t just tick boxes - they provide clear explanations, practical advice, and personalized recommendations.

We know that buying or selling a home can be stressful. That’s why we focus on building trust and making the inspection process straightforward and transparent. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned agent, partnering with D1 means you get more than just a report. You get a trusted advisor who cares about your home’s future.

If you want to learn more about the four point inspection and how it applies to your Oklahoma home, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you every step of the way.