Need a Professional 4 Points Inspection to Get Your Miami Home Insured?
4 Points Inspection
What is a 4 point inspection in Florida?
A 4 point inspection looks at the 4 major systems (Roof, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC) in an older home. An insurance company wants to know that an older home has been well maintained, and the major systems are in good working condition. This is not a safety inspection. They are done by a licensed inspector or building contractor.
Here is what a 4 point inspection looks at:
Roof - Type of Roof Covering (shingles, tile, rolled). The age and condition of the roof. Are there missing shingles or leaks?
Electrical System - The type of the wiring in the home (copper, aluminium, knob and tube). The brand of the electrical panel. The condition of the homes electrical system
Heating and Cooling - Is there central heat and air in the home? The age and condition of the system. Are there signs of leaking?
Plumbing System - Type of supply and drain lines found in the home (copper, CPVC, galvanized, lead, polybutelene, etc. Is there evidence of current leaks? The age of the hot water heater.
Some insurance companies like Citizens Insurance, require the inspector to use their form. Other insurance companies allow the inspector to use their preferred format. In addition to the written report, the inspector will take photos of each of the major systems to provide to the insurance company.
A 4-point inspection is more limited in scope than a full home inspection, as it focuses only on these critical areas. The findings from this inspection help insurance companies determine the risk associated with insuring the property and whether any updates or repairs are necessary to mitigate potential claims.
Is a 4-point inspection required in Florida?
If you own an older home and are up for renewal on your homeowners' insurance in Florida, or you’re purchasing an older home, chances are you will be asked to submit a four-point inspection as part of the underwriting process. This practice is most common in Florida and other coastal states.
How much does it cost?
These inspections typically cost between $150 and $300. However, you can bundle them with a wind mitigation inspection to get the best value, with a total cost of $500 for both.
