Why a 4-point inspection is essential for Florida homeowners

In Florida, insurers often require homeowners to get a 4-point inspection of their home—especially for older properties—before they will issue a homeowners policy. This requirement can apply to houses for both new policies and renewals.

A 4-point inspection can also be a useful tool for homeowners to improve the safety of their homes, identify areas in need of repair, and help control insurance premiums.

While 4-point inspections have become a standard practice in Florida, they are becoming more common in other states as well. The growing frequency and severity of extreme weather events is increasing the need for 4-point inspections.

A 4-point inspection is an evaluation of your home conducted by a licensed inspector or building contractor. The inspector or contractor examines and tests the following systems to determine if they are working and in good repair or need to be serviced or replaced:

• Roofing—The materials, condition, and age of your roof are reviewed. Your inspector will also look for signs of damage and leaks.
• Electrical system—Your inspector will examine the the wiring, service panel, and overall safety of your home’s electrical components. Outdated materials that pose a fire risk will need to be replaced.
• Plumbing—Your inspector will check for leaks and water damage; look at the type, age, and condition of pipes, fixtures, shutoff valves, and other components; and determine the likelihood of pipes bursting.
• HVAC—In addition to running your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to make sure they’re in good working order, your inspector will examine them for damage and leaks.

While a 4-point inspection provides a detailed picture of these key components of your home, keep in mind that it is not as thorough as a full home inspection

In addition to enabling homeowners to obtain insurance for their homes, a 4-point inspection can provide several benefits, including:

• Determing Maintenance Needs—Your 4-point inspection report can help you identify and prioritize which of your home’s systems need repairs or upgrades. Detecting problems early can also help you save money in the long run. You can avoid costly emergency repairs by addressing issues before they escalate into major repairs.
• Improving Your Home’s Safety—Your 4-point inspection can uncover issues that pose health and safety risks. For example, an inspector may find mold that can cause illness or identify fire risks in your electrical system. Certain repairs and upgrades can make your home safer and healthier.
• Potentially Lowering Your Insurance Premium—By identifying and addressing issues found during a 4-point inspection, you may be able to reduce your homeowners insurance premium. Insurance companies often offer policy discounts for homes that are in good condition and have been well-maintained.
• Protecting Your Home’s Value—Maintaining your home by addressing issues found during a 4-point inspection can help preserve or even increase your home’s value over time.
• Supporting the Sales Process—If you are planning to sell your home, a recent 4-point inspection report can demonstrate to potential buyers that your home’s main systems are working and well-maintained. This can make your home more attractive and strengthen your position for negotiations.