We’re Here to Help You Understand What to Expect
Worried about your upcoming 4-point inspection? You’re not alone.
Many homeowners feel anxious about what might be flagged and how it could affect their next steps. This page breaks down the most common concerns so you know what to expect.
"Only a licensed pro can confirm aluminum wiring; outlet markings aren’t enough."
Polybutylene Plumbing: A Known Problem
What You're Looking At: Polybutylene Supply Lines
The flexible gray supply lines running from the shutoff valve to the faucet are made of polybutylene — a material widely used in the 1990s for fixture hookups and repipes. While they may look fine externally, polybutylene is known to deteriorate from the inside out, often without visible signs before failure.
🔎Polybutylene Plumbing: What to Look For and What to Do
Polybutylene pipes can often be identified without opening walls. Look for solid gray “battleship gray” piping — usually flexible with plastic or metal fittings — in visible areas like under sinks, behind toilets, or near the water heater. ⚠️ Keep in mind, spotting it in one place doesn't guarantee the entire system uses it, but it should raise a red flag worth investigating.
If your home has polybutylene plumbing — even in just a few exposed areas — you should contact your insurance agent. Some insurance carriers may require full replacement to renew or maintain coverage, while others may limit your policy or add exclusions. It’s best to understand your options before issues arise.
Some insurance carriers prefer steel braided supply lines
especially for washing machines, under sinks, and behind toilets — due to their durability and reduced risk of leaks. Ask your agent if upgrading to braided lines is required for coverage or renewal.
🔥 WATER HEATERS:
We check for age, corrosion, and any signs of leakage — even if the water heater looks fine at first glance.
Rust at the base, moisture stains, or early corrosion are all common triggers for insurance denial or forced replacement.
We document the serial number from the data label to help determine the unit’s true age — but we also look at condition.
Beyond just age, signs of rust, poor maintenance, or missing components can raise concerns.
📌 Good maintenance matters:
✔️ Annual TPR valve check
✔️ Flush sediment from the tank
✔️ Inspect for corrosion and leaks
✔️ R
We document the serial number from the data label to help determine the unit’s true age — but we also look at condition.
Beyond just age, signs of rust, poor maintenance, or missing components can raise concerns.
📌 Good maintenance matters:
✔️ Annual TPR valve check
✔️ Flush sediment from the tank
✔️ Inspect for corrosion and leaks
✔️ Replace the anode rod every few years
These small steps can help extend the life of the unit — and avoid early replacement.
Most insurance carriers require water heater replacement at 15 years, even if the unit still works.
If your heater is getting close to that age, it's smart to plan ahead — especially before renewing insurance or selling your home.
❄️ HVAC Concerns
During a 4-Point Inspection, we check your HVAC system for age, corrosion, and drain issues — common insurance concerns.
This photo shows standing water and rust in the pan, a sign of a clogged or poorly maintained condensate line.
🏠 Roofing Concerns
broken shingle tabs
We inspect for visible damage like broken or lifted shingle tabs, which can allow water intrusion or wind uplift.
📸 This photo shows a shingle with broken adhesive strips and torn tabs — a common issue that affects roof integrity and may disqualify a home for insurance coverage.
Most carriers require the roof to be in serviceable condition with no active damage and several years of useful life remaining.
Missing or Dislodged Tiles
We document missing, cracked, or displaced roof tiles — issues that can allow water intrusion and often go unnoticed from the ground.
📸 In this photo, several dislodged tiles expose the underlayment, increasing the risk of leaks and insurance complications.
Even small openings like these can disqualify the roof from coverage if not addressed.
🌳 Overhanging Branches
Trees touching or hanging over the roof can cause shingle damage, moisture buildup, and pest access.
We document these issues when visible, as they can reduce roof life and lead to insurance concerns if left unaddressed.