How to Pass a Florida 4-Point Inspection
A practical homeowner's guide to preparing for the 4-Point: what inspectors check on each system, what carriers reject, common red flags by age, and which fixes are worth doing before the inspection.
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Written by Lisa Meine, InterNACHI Certified Master Inspector · 11+ years in the field · Last updated May 4, 2026
Pass Your 4-Point — Quick Answers
Can a 4-Point fail?
Technically no — the inspector documents what they see. But the carrier can decline coverage or raise the premium based on the findings. So in practice, problems with the four systems are 'failures' that affect your insurance.
What are the most common rejections?
Federal Pacific or Zinsco electrical panels, polybutylene supply piping, roof at end-of-life (under 5 years remaining), and unresolved active leaks.
Should I fix issues before the inspection?
Often yes. A failed inspection costs you more in higher premiums than a $500-$2,000 repair. Get a contractor's quote and decide: fix it before, or accept the carrier's terms.
Will the inspector pre-screen issues?
Most won't quote repairs (conflict of interest). But a good inspector will tell you what they see and what carriers typically flag. Use that information to decide.
What Each System Is Tested For
Roof
Inspector documents material, age, condition, and remaining useful life. Carriers want at least 5 years of remaining life. Common red flags: heavy granule loss, lifted shingles, exposed underlayment, ponding on flat roofs, missing tiles.
Fix before: Replace any missing/damaged tiles. Get a roof certification if your roof is 12+ years old. If under 5 years remaining and you can afford it, consider replacement before the inspection.
Electrical
Inspector documents service capacity, panel manufacturer, branch wiring type, GFCI presence. Carriers actively screen for Federal Pacific Stab-Lok and Zinsco panels (fire risk) and aluminum branch wiring (fire risk in older homes).
Fix before: If you have a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel, replacing it is almost always required by carriers. Cost: $1,500-$4,000. Aluminum branch wiring can sometimes be remediated with copper pigtails (CO/ALR-rated devices).
Plumbing
Inspector documents supply piping material, drain piping, water heater age and capacity, signs of leaks. Carriers reject polybutylene (class action history), aging cast iron drains, and any active leaks.
Fix before: Polybutylene replacement is non-negotiable if you want full coverage — budget $4,000-$10,000 depending on home size. Active leaks must be repaired before the inspection.
HVAC
Inspector documents system type, age, tonnage, refrigerant, condition. Carriers want operational systems not at end-of-life.
Fix before: Get the unit serviced. Replace if the system is 18+ years old and showing signs of failure. Many carriers won't insure an HVAC unit older than 20 years.
Common Red Flags by Home Age
Florida home age is the strongest predictor of what'll come up on the 4-Point. Here's what to expect:
- Pre-1980: Likely electrical and plumbing concerns. Federal Pacific panels common. Cast iron drains aging out.
- 1980-1995: Plumbing concerns (polybutylene era). Roofs may be at second-replacement age.
- 1996-2007: Generally clean from electrical/plumbing perspective. Roofs in 20+ year range now.
- Post-2007 (FBC 2007+): Strongest profile. Most issues are simply age-related (HVAC, roof useful life).
What to Do the Day Before
- Clear access to the electrical panel — the inspector needs to remove the cover.
- Clear access to the water heater — visible data plate is required.
- Make sure the attic is accessible — pull-down ladder or scuttle. No attic access = lost discounts on Wind Mit if doing both.
- Move stored items away from HVAC units and electrical equipment.
- Replace any visibly damaged shingles if you can do so safely.
- Have all repair receipts and warranty documents ready — carriers love documentation.
4-Point Pass Rates — by the Numbers
Approximate carrier rejection rates by issue type.
of pre-1980 homes have major electrical concernsFederal Pacific, Zinsco, aluminum wiring.
of 1980-1995 homes have polybutylene plumbingCarrier-driven repipe often required.
Typical electrical panel replacement costOften required for Federal Pacific or Zinsco.
Roof remaining-life threshold most carriers wantBelow this expect declines or premium hikes.
Strong vs Weak 4-Point Profiles
What carriers love vs what they reject.
Comparison reflects publicly listed features as of May 2026. Specifications change — verify current details on each vendor's site before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my insurance cancel if my 4-Point shows issues?
Existing policies usually grandfather in. New policies and renewals can be denied or repriced. Check your specific carrier's underwriting rules.
Can I get a second opinion?
Yes — you can hire a different inspector for a second 4-Point. Costs another $75-$150. Sometimes worth it for borderline calls.
What if my roof is too old?
Either replace it before the inspection (most carriers want 5+ years remaining), get a roof certification from a separate roofer that contradicts the inspector, or accept that the carrier may decline.
How long does it take after fixing issues to get re-inspected?
Usually within a week of repair completion. Have the contractor's invoice ready — carriers want documentation.
Can my agent recommend repair priorities?
Yes — they often know which issues their carrier will accept and which they'll reject. Talk to them before you spend money on repairs.
Should I do the Wind Mit at the same visit?
Yes — same inspector, one visit, two reports. Saves time and you usually get combo pricing ($125-$225 vs $150-$300 separately).
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