Is a 4-Point Inspection Mandatory in Florida?

Here in Volusia County as with other areas of Florida, insurance providers are more cautious today than ever before. Florida has been pummeled with what most of us feel is more than our fair share of storms and hurricanes. Wind mitigation is more important than ever, and many insurers will request regular 4-point inspections for homes 25 years and older.

Florida Changes to 4 Point Inspection Requirements
One of the reasons insurance companies request a 4-point inspection is to determine if the homeowner is “keeping up” with property maintenance and repairs. In 2018, the regulations for the 4-point inspection changed. One of the additions is a mandatory 4-point inspection for Florida homes over 30 years old.

A 4-point inspection examines:

  • Electrical
  • HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
  • Plumbing
  • Roof

Pre-Listing 4-Point Inspections for Real Estate Sales
Conducting a 4-point inspection before listing a property is simply a good idea. It will give prospective buyers confidence knowing the residence’s four major pain points are healthy and can meet their insurer’s eligibility requirements. Again, depending on the age, buyers’ insurance companies may request it anyway.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
Another update to the 4-point inspection is the necessity for inspectors to add photographs to their reports. Photos should show:

All exterior sides, front, back of house

  • Amperage
  • Appliances covered by homeowner’s insurance
  • Electrical box label inside door panel
  • Electrical system amperage and panel/sub-panels
  • Exposed water valves
  • Hazards present
  • HVAC servicing/maintenance date
  • Roof and slopes with predominant and secondary identified
  • Under-cabinet plumbing
  • Water heater
  • Water heater location
  • Water heater temperature pressure release valve

Extensive photos of any and all roof deterioration and visible damage must be provided as well as statements regarding:

  • Current operating conditions of 4-point components and appliances
  • HVAC age, last year of inspection, and information about potential leaks in the condensate line
  • Life expectancy of 4-point components and appliances
  • Maintenance requirements for 4-point components and appliances
  • The home’s amperage and if it is sufficient

4-Point Inspections for Whole-House Wellness
Don’t think of the 4-point inspection as a pass/fail or win/lose. And it isn’t another way insurance companies “get you”.

Your insurance company genuinely wants to find sources of current or potential damage and deterioration. Caught early, problem areas can be repaired to avoid future expenses. Your insurance professionals also want to identify areas of your home that might pose hazardous to your health and well-being.

For example, indoor air quality (IAQ) is critical for many Florida residents. A 4-point inspection may find hidden HVAC issues impacting your IAQ.

Once you understand the basics of 4-point inspection, you’ll agree it’s a whole-house wellness incentive. Real estate buyers and sellers can benefit from the information and feel confident knowing about current and future conditions that might affect home ownership and insurance.

Super Inspection Pros of Florida are trained and certified professionals. We built our reputation on honesty, integrity, and dependability, so we’ll be here when you need us. Contact us to discuss the merits of a 4-point inspection for your property.

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