If you’re buying an older home in Florida or renewing your insurance policy, you’ve likely heard the term 4 point inspection. But what is a 4 point inspection, and why does your insurance company want one?
This quick guide explains what a 4 point home inspection is, what it covers, and why it’s often required for Florida homeowners.
What Is a 4 Point Inspection?
A 4 point inspection is a type of insurance inspection that evaluates the four most critical systems in a home:
- Roof
- Electrical System
- Plumbing System
- HVAC (Heating and Cooling)
Unlike a full home inspection, which looks at everything from the foundation to the attic, a 4 point inspection focuses only on these four areas. Its purpose is to give insurance companies a quick understanding of the home’s current condition.
What Is a 4 Point Inspection in Florida?
In Florida, 4 point inspections are especially common—and often required—for homes older than 20 years. That’s because the state’s humid climate, hurricanes, and aging infrastructure can take a toll on home systems.
So, what is a 4 point inspection that Florida insurance companies require? It’s a basic check to make sure your roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are safe, functional, and not a liability.
What Does a 4 Point Inspection Include?
Here’s what each part of the four point inspection looks at:
Roof
- Roof age and material
- Visible damage, leaks, or repairs
- Estimated remaining life
Electrical
- Type of wiring
- Electrical panel brand and condition
- Breakers, grounding, GFCI/AFCI protection
Plumbing
- Pipe materials (e.g., copper, CPVC, galvanized)
- Water heater age and type
- Signs of corrosion or leaks
HVAC
- Heating and cooling systems
- Age and condition
- Functional operation
What Is a 4 Point Home Inspection Report?
After the 4 point inspection, the inspector will provide a detailed report that includes:
- Photos of all four systems
- Notes on their age and condition
- Any potential issues that may affect insurability
This report is submitted to your insurance company to help them determine your eligibility and coverage options. If you provide us with your insurance agent’s contact information, you may qualify for our Signature Pricing, and we will send the final report to your agent for you.
What Is a 4 Point Inspection on a Home Used For?
Primarily, 4 point inspections are used to help homeowners secure insurance coverage, especially in Florida. Insurers want to know that your home doesn’t pose an increased risk for claims related to fire, flood, or system failure.
If any of the four systems are outdated or unsafe, your insurer may require upgrades before issuing or renewing a policy.
What Happens If a Home Doesn’t “Pass”?
There’s no official pass/fail for a 4 point inspection, but insurance companies may deny coverage or require repairs if your:
- Roof has less than 3–5 years of life left
- Electrical panel is a known hazard (e.g., Federal Pacific)
- Plumbing includes polybutylene or galvanized pipes
- HVAC system is inoperable or very old
Making necessary repairs helps you qualify for better coverage—and potentially lower premiums.
When Should You Schedule a 4 Point Inspection?
You may need a 4 point home inspection if you’re:
- Purchasing a home over 20 years old
- Renewing or switching insurance providers
- Asked by your insurance agent for documentation
- Living in a coastal or high-risk area of Florida
Many homeowners pair a 4 point inspection with a wind mitigation inspection to qualify for additional insurance discounts.
Ready to Schedule Your 4 Point Inspection?
Now that you know what is a 4 point inspection and why it matters, the next step is simple: schedule yours with a trusted, experienced provider. Our team of licensed inspectors are ready!
At My Safe Home Inspection, we offer reliable 4 point inspections in Florida with digital reports and insurance-ready documentation. Enjoy flexible scheduling and next-day reporting.
Book your 4 point inspection now and stay protected, insured, and stress-free.