This is a great question and one worth knowing the difference. I am sure you can find articles explaining this in depth using technical jargon but to make this simple, a 4-Point Inspection is normally required for homeowners’ insurance policies. Insurance companies want to know the age and condition of the 4 major point of the home. What are the 4 points you ask? Another good question. The 4 points on the report include the roof, cooling and heating, electrical and plumbing components, that’s all the insurance agents need and want to know.
A “regular” or “full inspection” consists of much more. As a potential buyer, you would need to know all the same information that’s on a 4-Point. But with a full inspection, you will get that same information as well as inform you the condition of the windows, doors, appliances, etc. Not all inspectors will offer the same services. It’s important you feel comfortable and ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable with the inspector you choose.