How to Prepare for a Four-Point Inspection in Florida

Why preparation matters

A four-point inspection reports on the roof, electrical, plumbing and air conditioning so your insurer can decide whether to write the policy. The inspector reports what's there. But a little preparation makes the visit faster and can keep small, easy fixes from holding up your insurance.

Gather these before the inspection

Roof permit or invoice. The roof's age is one of the first things insurers look at. A permit or receipt with the installation date helps.

Electrical, plumbing or AC update records. If the panel was replaced, the house was re-piped, or a new AC was installed, have the permit or invoice ready.

Water heater age. The label on the water heater usually shows the year. If it was replaced, keep the receipt.

Make everything easy to reach

Clear a path to the electrical panel, the water heater, the AC air handler and the attic access. Move boxes out of closets that hold equipment, and make sure the attic hatch can open. If we can't see something, we can't document it.

Simple fixes worth doing first

Put the cover back on the electrical panel and make sure every breaker is labeled.

Fix any active leaks under sinks, at toilets or around the water heater.

Make sure the water heater has a pressure relief valve and a discharge line.

Make sure the AC works and the drain line isn't clogged.

Repair obvious roof damage, such as missing shingles or broken tiles, with a licensed roofer.

These are common reasons a report raises questions. Our guide to what fails a four-point inspection covers the bigger issues, like older panel brands and polybutylene piping.

What happens if something comes up

If a problem is found, fix it with a licensed contractor, keep the invoice or permit, and have the report updated. Talk to your agent first, because each insurer has its own requirements, and the same report can be fine for one company and a problem for another.

How long it takes

The four-point itself usually goes quickly, and it can be done in the same visit as a wind mitigation inspection or a full home inspection. You get the report with photos, usually the same day, ready to send to your agent.