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There are a few key differences between wind mitigation and four-point inspections. Wind mitigation inspections focus on a single aspect of your home (its ability to withstand high winds). In contrast, four-point inspections assess multiple parts of your house (roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC). Despite this, wind mitigation and four-point inspections cost about the same amount.

Technically, you can do a home inspection yourself. Still, it is not recommended unless you or someone you know has a background in the construction trades to be able to identify any issues. A certified home inspector is trained and has the experience necessary to make a thorough and trustworthy assessment of the condition of a home. If you need a home inspection when buying and selling a home, a professional home inspector is often required.

If your home has a forced-air HVAC system, it will also have HVAC duct parts. Air ducts are connected to an HVAC unit and deliver heated or cooled air to each room; your heating and AC wouldn’t work without ductwork.

However, if your house has a boiler or radiator system for heating and doesn’t have central AC, you probably don’t have ductwork installed.

While a hygrometer is the most accurate tool for measuring humidity levels in the home, you can gauge humidity levels using simpler methods. One way is by observing signs like condensation on windows or feeling excessively sticky or clammy indoors, indicating higher humidity. Another DIY approach involves the “hair method”—aka placing a few strands of human hair in a closed container with salt for several hours. If the hair becomes limp, it's likely due to high humidity. These methods offer rough estimations, but lack the precision of a hygrometer for accurate readings.