What Is a 4-Point Inspection?
If you own an home in Florida or are buying one, you’ve likely heard the term 4-point inspection—often from your insurance company. But what exactly is a 4-point inspection, why do insurers require it, and how can it affect your ability to get or keep homeowners insurance?
This guide explains everything you need to know about 4-point inspections in Florida, written for homeowners, buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals.
What Is a 4-Point Inspection?
A 4-point inspection is a limited home inspection that focuses on four major systems of a house:
Roof
Electrical system
Plumbing system
HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
Unlike a full home inspection, a 4-point inspection is primarily for insurance underwriting, not for evaluating the entire condition of a property.
Insurance companies use this inspection to assess risk—especially for older homes—before issuing or renewing a homeowners insurance policy.
Why Do Insurance Companies Require a 4-Point Inspection?
Many insurance carriers in Florida require a 4-point inspection for homes. Older systems can present a higher risk of:
Roof failure and water intrusion
Electrical fires
Plumbing leaks or water damage
HVAC breakdowns
The inspection helps insurers determine:
If the home meets minimum insurability standards
Whether certain systems need repairs or upgrades
If coverage can be issued, limited, or denied
What Does a 4-Point Inspection Include?
1. Roof
The inspector evaluates:
Roof covering type (shingle, tile, metal, flat, etc.)
Approximate age of the roof
Visible signs of damage, leaks, or deterioration
Remaining useful life (as observed)
Important: Insurance companies often require roofs to have a minimum number of years of remaining life.
2. Electrical System
The electrical inspection typically includes:
Main electrical panel type and brand
Amperage and wiring type
Presence of outdated or hazardous components (e.g., aluminum branch wiring, Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels)
General safety concerns or improper installations
Unsafe or obsolete electrical systems are a common reason for insurance denial.
3. Plumbing System
The plumbing evaluation focuses on:
Supply piping material (copper, PEX, CPVC, galvanized, polybutylene)
Drain, waste, and vent piping
Water heater age and condition
Visible leaks or signs of previous water damage
Certain plumbing materials—especially polybutylene—are frequently flagged by insurance companies.
4. HVAC System
The HVAC portion includes:
Age and type of system(s)
Operational condition at the time of inspection
Visible damage or improper installation
Signs of leaks or corrosion
Insurance companies want confirmation that the system is functional and not at immediate risk of failure.
What a 4-Point Inspection Does Not Cover
A 4-point inspection is not a full home inspection. It does not include:
Structural components (foundation, framing)
Appliances
Windows and doors
Interior finishes
Attics or insulation (unless related to one of the four systems)
If you are purchasing a home, a full home inspection is strongly recommended in addition to a 4-point inspection.
How Long Is a 4-Point Inspection Valid?
Most insurance companies accept a 4-point inspection that is:
Completed within the last 12 months
Performed by a licensed home inspector
Always confirm validity requirements with your specific insurance carrier.
Can a Home Fail a 4-Point Inspection?
There is no official "pass or fail," but insurance companies may:
Require repairs before issuing coverage
Exclude certain systems from coverage
Deny coverage altogether
Common issues include:
Roofs near or beyond their expected lifespan
Unsafe electrical panels or wiring
Leaking or outdated plumbing
Non-functioning HVAC systems
How to Prepare for a 4-Point Inspection
To improve your chances of approval:
Repair visible roof damage or active leaks
Replace hazardous electrical components
Fix plumbing leaks and ensure proper materials
Confirm HVAC systems are operational
Proactive repairs can save time, money, and insurance headaches.
4-Point Inspection vs. Wind Mitigation Inspection
These inspections serve different purposes:
4-Point Inspection: Evaluates insurability of major systems
Wind Mitigation Inspection: Evaluates wind-resistant features that may qualify for insurance discounts
Many Florida homeowners complete both inspections to meet insurance requirements and reduce premiums.
Local 4-Point Inspections in Collier County & Southwest Florida
Home Check Systems is a trusted, locally owned home inspection company serving Collier County and Southwest Florida. With decades of experience inspecting Florida homes, we specialize in insurance-required inspections, including 4-point inspections, wind mitigation inspections, and full home inspections.
Homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals choose Home Check Systems for:
Deep knowledge of Collier County and coastal insurance requirements
Insurance-ready reports accepted by major Florida carriers
Fast scheduling with same-day report delivery
One call to schedule all required inspections
Homeowners and buyers in Collier County often face stricter insurance requirements due to the age of housing stock, coastal exposure, and hurricane risk. Insurance carriers commonly request 4-point inspections for properties located in:
Naples, Florida (including Old Naples, North Naples, Port Royal, Park Shore, Pelican Bay, Golden Gate, and East Naples)
Bonita Springs
Estero
Marco Island
Whether your home is inland or coastal, insurers want confirmation that the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems meet current insurability standards. Working with a local inspector familiar with Southwest Florida insurance guidelines helps avoid delays, re-inspections, or denied coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does a 4-point inspection cost in Naples, FL?
Pricing varies by property size and age, but most 4-point inspections in Collier County typically range from $100 to $200. Bundling a 4-point inspection with a wind mitigation inspection may reduce overall cost.
How long does a 4-point inspection take?
Most 4-point inspections take 30–60 minutes, depending on access to systems and the size of the home.
Can I use an old 4-point inspection for insurance?
Most insurance companies require the inspection to be completed within the last 12 months, but some carriers may have stricter timelines. Always verify with your insurance agent.
Will a 4-point inspection help lower my insurance premium?
A 4-point inspection itself does not usually lower premiums, but it helps you qualify for coverage. Pairing it with a wind mitigation inspection can often lead to significant insurance discounts.
Final Thoughts
A 4-point inspection is an essential part of the insurance process for many homes in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, Marco Island, and throughout Collier County. Understanding what insurers look for—and preparing in advance—can save time, money, and frustration.
For homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals in Southwest Florida, choosing an experienced local inspector ensures accurate reporting and smooth communication with insurance companies.
Need a professional 4-point inspection in Collier County or Southwest Florida? Home Check Systems provides licensed, insurance-ready 4-point inspections in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Marco Island. Our local inspectors understand Florida insurance underwriting requirements and deliver clear, same-day reports trusted by homeowners, real estate agents, and insurance companies.