Inspections are a crucial part of owning real estate. Regardless of your property type, you’ll want to get periodic inspections to ensure everything is running smoothly. That said, there are several different types of inspections, whether you’re looking at the roof, HVAC system, plumbing, or electrical work. Each aspect is important and necessary to ensure a safe and legally compliant rental property. Today, we’re going over 4-point inspections, why they’re important, when to get one, and more.
Contents of This Article:
- What Is a 4-Point Inspection?
- Why Are 4-Point Inspections Important?
- Do You Need a 4-Point Inspection?
- 4-Point Inspection vs. Full Home Inspection
- Stay Legally Compliant With BMG
What Is a 4-Point Inspection?
Landlords and property managers in Baltimore know that inspections are non-negotiable. Each rental property should be inspected periodically, whether it’s a seasonal or move-in inspection.
A 4-point inspection is an in-depth evaluation of a home’s four major systems: roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. During an inspection, a professional home inspector tests and reviews each system to ensure they work properly and determine when they need to be repaired or replaced.
Here’s a deeper look at what inspectors examine during a 4-point inspection.
Roofing
This is generally the most thorough part of a 4-point inspection. After all, the roof is crucial to the building’s entire structure and impacts a home’s energy efficiency and overall safety. During this part of the inspection, inspectors identify leaks, mold, or structural issues, which helps them determine the roof’s age, material, and life expectancy. After around 20 years, it’s typically time for a roof replacement.
Electrical Systems
During an electrical inspection, the inspector checks to see that everything meets code regulations. They identify faulty or outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or fire hazard risks. That said, depending on the seriousness of the violation, you can still pass the inspection. A few components that may result in an inspection failure include aluminum branch wiring, double-tapped breaker, or cloth and sheath wiring, which are all outdated or unsafe practices.
Plumbing Systems
An inspector examines the pipes to determine leaks, corrosion, damaged fittings, and other issues. They evaluate the material and age of the pipes throughout the home, including the toilets and sinks. Additionally, they check the water heater to ensure it effectively distributes water throughout the home.
HVAC
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. This is one of the most crucial systems, as it controls a home’s climate. During an inspection, a licensed professional looks to see that the home has a fully functioning heating and cooling unit. They evaluate an HVAC unit’s condition and age and can establish its life expectancy and how well-maintained it is. Typically, if the unit is 20 years or older, it’s time for a replacement.
Why Are 4-Point Inspections Important?
Four-point inspections are important for several reasons. Before purchasing a home, whether for yourself or as a rental, you’ll want to identify any issues or required maintenance before it becomes livable. Here are some of the main reasons you should get a four-point inspection.
- Safety- Identifying roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC system issues can prevent safety hazards like electrical fires, plumbing leaks, or heating failures.
- Maintenance- Four-point inspections help rental owners understand the current condition of these key systems. This allows rental owners to address any maintenance needs before they become more significant problems.
- Property Value- For both buyers and sellers, a four-point inspection can provide insight into the property’s condition and potential repair costs, which can impact the final purchase price.
Do You Need a 4-Point Inspection?
If you plan on buying an older property, you’ll need to get a 4-point inspection. After all, older homes are more likely to have structural issues or damage due to aging. However, if you buy a new home, you may be able to skip this inspection, especially if you’re already getting a full inspection.
Another instance where you might need a 4-point inspection is when getting or renewing home insurance. Most insurers want this inspection done to assess potential liabilities. With that, you may have to fix any major issues that an inspector identifies within your property.
Here are a few instances where you may need or want a 4-point inspection for your property.
- Home Insurance Requirement– Many insurance companies require an inspection when insuring and older home, usually 25-30 years or older. A 4-point inspection helps assess the condition and risks of the major systems in the home.
- When Buying an Older Home- If you’re buying an older home, a four-point inspection can help you better understand its overall condition. This can help you negotiate repairs or determine whether or not it’s a good investment.
- Selling Your Home- If you’re selling your home, you may find that some buyers or real estate agents may request an inspection as part of the sale process.
- Preventative Maintenace– Even if it’s not required, a 4-point inspection is helpful in spotting potential issues early on. That way, you can plan repairs before they escalate and become more significant.
4-Point Inspection vs. Full Home Inspection
Although a 4-point inspection looks at some of the home’s major systems, it’s not the same as a complete home inspection. Here are a few of the differences between the two.
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Stay Legally Compliant With BMG
Inspections are a crucial part of investing in real estate and keeping your rental properties legally compliant. Depending on the age and type of property you buy, you may need to get a 4-point inspection before getting insurance. However, when it comes to rental properties, this isn’t the only important inspection. You’ll also need seasonal inspections, move-in and move-out inspections, and more if there are issues with your rental.
Bay Property Management Group can help! Our team of experienced property management professionals can help ensure your properties are always well-maintained and up-to-date. Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive rental management services throughout Baltimore, Philadelphia, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC.
