Key Differences between 4 Point and Full Home Inspections

What’s the difference between a 4-point inspection and a full home inspection?

This is a common question we receive, often surrounded by misinformation that can lead to buyer remorse and overlooked major issues.

To be clear, a 4-point inspection serves a single purpose: to help insurance underwriters decide if a home is insurable. It is not intended to replace a comprehensive home inspection for buyers. Relying on a 4-point inspection alone when purchasing a property can lead to significant regret.

This is a common question we receive, often surrounded by misinformation that can lead to buyer remorse and overlooked major issues.

Schedule

FOUR POINT INSPECTION

A state-mandated form intended to provide insurance underwriters with the essential information required to issue an insurance policy.

FULL HOME INSPECTION

A comprehensive report crafted to equip home buyers and their agents with the necessary tools to fully understand the home’s condition, enabling them to make an informed decision about purchasing the property.

Report Content

📝 A challenging-to-read, state-mandated, 4-page report🚨 Covers only limited aspects: electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and roof
💰 Created for insurance underwriters to assess insurance eligibility and pricing
📸 Contains a limited number of photos (typically 15-20)

Report Content

📝 User-friendly, web-based, interactive report with over 50 pages
🚦 Clearly defined issue severity levels (DIY vs. professional help)
🦺 Suggested contractors
📸 Abundant photos (typically 400+)

Electrical

✅ Confirm the brand of the electrical panel and determine its age and wiring type
🚫 Do not test all outlets and switches
🚫 Do not test interior and exterior electrical fixtures
🚫 Do not inspect for issues beyond the electrical panel

Electrical

✅ Inspection of electrical panel and breakers
✅ Testing of all outlets and switches
✅ Examination of visible wiring in the attic and panel for hazardous types
✅ Testing of interior and exterior electrical fixtures
✅ And much more!

Roof

✅ Confirm the roof’s age and lifespan, and determine if it is nearing the end of its life
🚫 Do not inspect for minor damages that could escalate into larger issues
🚫 Do not inspect flashings, gutters, and other roof-related systems

Roof

✅ Assess the lifespan of roof coverings
✅ Check for leaks, past damage, and potential future leaks
✅ Inspect all flashing and gutters
✅ And much more!

Plumbing

✅ Ensure there are no active leaks at sinks, toilets, or the water heater
🚫 Do not stress-test the plumbing system for proper drainage
🚫 Do not inspect all water fixtures inside and outside the home
🚫 Do not inspect gas appliances (if applicable)

Plumbing

✅ Testing of all interior and exterior water fixtures
✅ Inspection and testing of the water heater for age, lifespan, and other issues
✅ Examination and testing of all water-fed appliances
✅ Checking for both active and potential leaks
✅ And much more!

HVAC

✅ Confirm the age of the HVAC system and ensure it powers on, regardless of condition
🚫 Do not test for proper airflow to all rooms or check temperature differentials
🚫 Do not inspect for signs that the system may be nearing the end of its life or requires servicing
🚫 Do not examine ductwork in the attic or crawlspace for signs of damage

HVAC

✅ Test the proper functioning of heating and air conditioning systems
✅ Confirm the age and lifespan of installed systems
✅ Check for microbial growth on visible components
✅ Verify temperature differentials
✅ And much more!

Exterior

✅ Examine siding material for damage or deferred maintenance that could result in leaks
✅ Assess landscaping for potential hazards that might cause home damage
✅ Check all decks, porches, and railings for safety
✅ Inspect all exterior doors and windows for potential air or moisture intrusion
✅ Evaluate pools, if present, for damage, leaks at the pump, electrical connections, etc.
✅ And much more!

Interior

✅ Examine the flooring, walls, and ceilings in each room
✅ Check all outlets, switches, and lights in each room
✅ Test for moisture under and around every window
✅ Verify airflow from the HVAC system in each room
✅ And much more!

Kitchen

✅ Inspect-Check sinks, dishwasher, and fridge for leaks or damage
✅ Verify proper function of the range and microwave
✅ Examine all countertops and cabinets for damage and functionality
✅ And much more!

Bathrooms

✅ Check sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers for leaks or damage
✅ Assess ventilation to prevent future humidity and mold issues
✅ Examine drainage for signs of larger waste system problems
✅ And much more!

Testimonials

NORTH Home Inspections Reviews

Rave Review from our Clients

Claudia Castro
Client
This is the 3rd time I use this company and it never disappoints. Very satisfied with the service and they are very fast too posting the results on the website.
Marina Antony
Client
Very professional and knowledgeable inspector! The inspector was very accommodating and set up appointment on a short notice. They were on time, very friendly and courteous. I would highly recommend. Very happy with the experience.
Alberto Diaz
Client
Super agradecidos del buen trabajo del inspector super.profecional muchas gracias
Shophia Lee
Client
Quick response time as well as report turnaround for a fair price.
Arlis Hernandez
Client
Very professional and knowledgeable, he answers all our questions
Daniel
Client
The Inspector performance was outstanding. During the inspection he kindly answered the numerous questions we had and showed high levels of technical knowledge and professionalism.

Felipe Guifarro
Client
Great job!, I came from Miami to represent my clients and have less knowledge in Brandon than Miami. The Inspector did his job in a way that I felt like I was in my own area. I can really recommend North Home Inspections.
Marilin Martinez
Client
Mi hijo quedó muy satisfecho el inspector es todo un profesional paciente y sabio supo contestar todas sus preguntas e inquietudes y lo recomendariamos 100% a todos nuestros conocidos, gracias por su eficiencia y rapidez muchos éxitos 🙌 🙌 🙌
Adameli Valladares
Client
AN EXCELLENT SERVICE I RECOMMEND IT 100%
Miriam Perez
Client
Excellent inspector! Very professional and good communication. Explain the problems encountered and give the buyers some recommendations.
Maria Silvia
Client
I've been working with North Home Inspections for a few years now, He's always on time, the reports are ready the instantly after the inspection or later the same day. Love the reports technology!!
Sandra Diaz
Client
On time! Called to confirm the inspection needed. Very clear, Very professional! Highly recommend him. The inspection report issued was very detailed, with pictures and videos. I am extremely satisfied. Thank you!

Testimonials

NORTH Home Inspections Reviews

Rave Review from our Clients

Claudia Castro
Client
This is the 3rd time I use this company and it never disappoints. Very satisfied with the service and they are very fast too posting the results on the website.
Marina Antony
Client
Very professional and knowledgeable inspector! The inspector was very accommodating and set up appointment on a short notice. They were on time, very friendly and courteous. I would highly recommend. Very happy with the experience.
Alberto Diaz
Client
Super agradecidos del buen trabajo del inspector super.profecional muchas gracias
Shophia Lee
Client
Quick response time as well as report turnaround for a fair price.
Arlis Hernandez
Client
Very professional and knowledgeable, he answers all our questions
Daniel
Client
The Inspector performance was outstanding. During the inspection he kindly answered the numerous questions we had and showed high levels of technical knowledge and professionalism.

Who We Serve

Home Buyers

Home Sellers

Home Owners

Quick Links

About NORTH

Services

Reviews

FAQs

Resources

Sample Report

Resource Center

Follow NORTH

License Hi17601

CONTACT US

Schedule an Inspection

656-201-0201

2025

Made by

NORTH GND LLC

with

Framer

Who We Serve

Home Buyers

Home Sellers

Home Owners

Quick Links

About NORTH

Services

Reviews

FAQs

Resources

Sample Report

Resource Center

Follow NORTH

License Hi17601

CONTACT US

Schedule an Inspection

656-201-0201

2025

Made by

NORTH GND LLC

with

Framer

Who We Serve

Home Buyers

Home Sellers

Home Owners

Quick Links

About NORTH

Services

Reviews

FAQs

Resources

Sample Report

Resource Center

Follow NORTH

License Hi17601

CONTACT US

Schedule an Inspection

656-201-0201

2025

Made by

NORTH GND LLC

with

Framer

Who We Serve

Home Buyers

Home Sellers

Home Owners

Quick Links

About NORTH

Services

Reviews

FAQs

Resources

Sample Report

Resource Center

Follow NORTH

License Hi17601

CONTACT US

Schedule an Inspection

656-201-0201

2025

Made by

NORTH GND LLC

with

Framer

What’s the difference between a 4-point inspection and a full home inspection?

What’s the difference between a 4-point inspection and a full home inspection?

FOUR POINT INSPECTION

FOUR POINT INSPECTION

FOUR POINT INSPECTION

FOUR POINT INSPECTION

A state-mandated form intended to provide insurance underwriters with the essential information required to issue an insurance policy.

FULL HOME INSPECTION

FULL HOME INSPECTION

FULL HOME INSPECTION

FULL HOME INSPECTION

A comprehensive report crafted to equip home buyers and their agents with the necessary tools to fully understand the home’s condition, enabling them to make an informed decision about purchasing the property.

Report Content

Report Content

Report Content

Report Content

📝 A challenging-to-read, state-mandated, 4-page report🚨 Covers only limited aspects: electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and roof💰 Created for insurance underwriters to assess insurance eligibility and pricing📸 Contains a limited number of photos (typically 15-20)

Report Content

Report Content

Report Content

Report Content

📝 User-friendly, web-based, interactive report with over 50 pages🚦 Clearly defined issue severity levels (DIY vs. professional help)🦺 Suggested contractors📸 Abundant photos (typically 400+)

Electrical

Electrical

Electrical

Electrical

✅ Confirm the brand of the electrical panel and determine its age and wiring type🚫 Do not test all outlets and switches🚫 Do not test interior and exterior electrical fixtures🚫 Do not inspect for issues beyond the electrical panel

Electrical

Electrical

Electrical

Electrical

✅ Inspection of electrical panel and breakers✅ Testing of all outlets and switches✅ Examination of visible wiring in the attic and panel for hazardous types✅ Testing of interior and exterior electrical fixtures✅ And much more!

Roof

Roof

Roof

Roof

✅ Confirm the roof’s age and lifespan, and determine if it is nearing the end of its life🚫 Do not inspect for minor damages that could escalate into larger issues🚫 Do not inspect flashings, gutters, and other roof-related systems

Roof

Roof

Roof

Roof

✅ Assess the lifespan of roof coverings✅ Check for leaks, past damage, and potential future leaks✅ Inspect all flashing and gutters✅ And much more!

Plumbing

Plumbing

Plumbing

Plumbing

✅ Ensure there are no active leaks at sinks, toilets, or the water heater🚫 Do not stress-test the plumbing system for proper drainage🚫 Do not inspect all water fixtures inside and outside the home🚫 Do not inspect gas appliances (if applicable)

Plumbing

Plumbing

Plumbing

Plumbing

✅ Testing of all interior and exterior water fixtures✅ Inspection and testing of the water heater for age, lifespan, and other issues✅ Examination and testing of all water-fed appliances✅ Checking for both active and potential leaks✅ And much more!

HVAC

HVAC

HVAC

HVAC

HVAC

HVAC

HVAC

HVAC

✅ Test the proper functioning of heating and air conditioning systems✅ Confirm the age and lifespan of installed systems✅ Check for microbial growth on visible components✅ Verify temperature differentials✅ And much more!

Exterior

Exterior

Exterior

Exterior

Interior

Interior

Interior

Interior

✅ Examine the flooring, walls, and ceilings in each room✅ Check all outlets, switches, and lights in each room✅ Test for moisture under and around every window✅ Verify airflow from the HVAC system in each room✅ And much more!

Kitchen

Kitchen

Kitchen

Kitchen

✅ Inspect-Check sinks, dishwasher, and fridge for leaks or damage✅ Verify proper function of the range and microwave✅ Examine all countertops and cabinets for damage and functionality✅ And much more!

Bathrooms

Bathrooms

Bathrooms

Bathrooms

✅ Check sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers for leaks or damage✅ Assess ventilation to prevent future humidity and mold issues✅ Examine drainage for signs of larger waste system problems✅ And much more!

📝 A challenging-to-read, state-mandated, 4-page report🚨 Covers only limited aspects: electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and roof
💰 Created for insurance underwriters to assess insurance eligibility and pricing
📸 Contains a limited number of photos (typically 15-20)

📝 User-friendly, web-based, interactive report with over 50 pages
🚦 Clearly defined issue severity levels (DIY vs. professional help)
🦺 Suggested contractors
📸 Abundant photos (typically 400+)

✅ Confirm the brand of the electrical panel and determine its age and wiring type
🚫 Do not test all outlets and switches
🚫 Do not test interior and exterior electrical fixtures
🚫 Do not inspect for issues beyond the electrical panel

✅ Inspection of electrical panel and breakers
✅ Testing of all outlets and switches
✅ Examination of visible wiring in the attic and panel for hazardous types
✅ Testing of interior and exterior electrical fixtures
✅ And much more!

✅ Confirm the roof’s age and lifespan, and determine if it is nearing the end of its life
🚫 Do not inspect for minor damages that could escalate into larger issues
🚫 Do not inspect flashings, gutters, and other roof-related systems

✅ Assess the lifespan of roof coverings
✅ Check for leaks, past damage, and potential future leaks
✅ Inspect all flashing and gutters
✅ And much more!

✅ Ensure there are no active leaks at sinks, toilets, or the water heater
🚫 Do not stress-test the plumbing system for proper drainage
🚫 Do not inspect all water fixtures inside and outside the home
🚫 Do not inspect gas appliances (if applicable)

✅ Testing of all interior and exterior water fixtures
✅ Inspection and testing of the water heater for age, lifespan, and other issues
✅ Examination and testing of all water-fed appliances
✅ Checking for both active and potential leaks
✅ And much more!

✅ Test the proper functioning of heating and air conditioning systems
✅ Confirm the age and lifespan of installed systems
✅ Check for microbial growth on visible components
✅ Verify temperature differentials
✅ And much more!

✅ Examine the flooring, walls, and ceilings in each room
✅ Check all outlets, switches, and lights in each room
✅ Test for moisture under and around every window
✅ Verify airflow from the HVAC system in each room
✅ And much more!

✅ Inspect-Check sinks, dishwasher, and fridge for leaks or damage
✅ Verify proper function of the range and microwave
✅ Examine all countertops and cabinets for damage and functionality
✅ And much more!

✅ Check sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers for leaks or damage
✅ Assess ventilation to prevent future humidity and mold issues
✅ Examine drainage for signs of larger waste system problems
✅ And much more!