4-Point Inspection for Florida Insurance

A 4-point inspection documents the age and condition of a home's roof, electrical system, plumbing and heating and air conditioning. Florida insurance companies commonly require one before writing or renewing a policy on an older home.

The four systems insurers ask about: roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC.

Weathered asphalt shingle hip roof on a Florida home — Roof: covering type, age and remaining life.

The four points

Roof: covering type, age, remaining life and signs of leaks
Electrical: panel type, wiring type, service size and hazards
Plumbing: supply and drain materials, water heater, leaks
HVAC: system age, operation and condition

Who needs a 4-point inspection?

Florida insurers commonly require a 4-point inspection on older homes before they will write a new policy or renew an existing one. The age cutoff varies by company, but homes around 25 to 30 years old and up are typical. If your agent or insurer has asked for one, they will usually tell you the deadline.

What insurers commonly look for

Underwriters are trying to identify elevated risk of fire and water damage. Items that often cause problems include:

Roofs near the end of their service life, or with active leaks
Electrical panels from manufacturers insurers commonly flag, such as Federal Pacific and Zinsco
Aluminum branch wiring and cloth-insulated wiring
Polybutylene supply piping and galvanized steel supply lines
Water heaters without proper safety valves or drain lines

Anthony documents what is there with clear photos, so the underwriter has what they need and you know exactly where the home stands.

4-point vs. full home inspection

A 4-point inspection is narrow by design: it serves the insurer. It does not cover the structure, foundation, exterior, appliances or most of the interior. If you are buying a home, you will usually want a full home inspection and can add the 4-point to the same visit. See 4-point vs. full home inspection for a side-by-side comparison.

Open residential electrical panel showing breakers and wiring — Electrical: panel brand, breakers and wiring type.

Water heater with copper and PEX supply lines in a garage — Plumbing: supply materials and water heater installation.

Outdoor air conditioning condenser beside a stucco house — HVAC: system age and operation.

Common questions

What is a 4-point inspection?

A 4-point inspection documents the age and condition of a home's roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems for an insurance company.

How old does a home have to be to need a 4-point inspection?

It depends on the insurer, but homes around 25 to 30 years old and up are commonly asked for one. Your insurance agent can confirm whether your policy requires it.

Can a home fail a 4-point inspection?

The inspection itself does not pass or fail a home. It documents conditions. An insurer may decline coverage or require repairs based on what is documented, such as an old roof or a flagged electrical panel.

Can I combine a 4-point with a home inspection?

Yes. Buyers often book a home inspection, 4-point and wind mitigation inspection in the same visit.

Other inspection services

Where this service is available

4-Point Inspections are available throughout the Tampa Bay area within about 45 miles of St. Petersburg.

See the full service area