Wind Mitigation & Four-Point Inspections
Two Florida inspections come up constantly in insurance: the wind mitigation inspection, which can lower your premium, and the four-point inspection, which many insurers require on older homes.
Wind mitigation inspection
An inspector documents features that help a home resist hurricane winds and records them on a standard state form. Insurers use it to apply discounts for qualifying features. The inspector looks at:
- Roof shape and roof covering
- Roof deck attachment
- Roof-to-wall connections, such as clips or straps
- Opening protection, such as impact windows or shutters
- Secondary water resistance under the roof covering
The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation says the form is valid for up to five years, as long as no material changes are made to the home and the form has no inaccuracies. Ask your agent how your insurer handles it. If you upgraded your roof or windows, a new inspection can capture the discount.
Four-point inspection
A four-point inspection checks the age and condition of four systems: the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Insurers commonly ask for one when a home reaches a certain age, often around 20 to 30 years, or when you switch carriers. Problems like old wiring, certain plumbing materials, or an aging roof can lead to higher premiums or a refused policy until repaired.
Using them when buying a home
- Ask the seller for the most recent wind mitigation and four-point reports.
- Get insurance quotes before your inspection contingency ends.
- If a roof is near the end of its life, factor in replacement cost.
Choosing an inspector
Look for a licensed professional, and ask what is covered and how quickly you will get the report. Be wary of anyone who promises specific discounts in advance.
See also: why Florida homeowners insurance is so expensive.
Keep reading
- Why Is Homeowners Insurance So Expensive in Florida?What drives premiums and 8 practical ways to lower yours.
- Florida Hurricane Deductible ExplainedHow percentage deductibles work, with dollar examples.
- Florida Flood Insurance BasicsWhat it covers, the waiting period, and why homeowners insurance does not.
- How Citizens Property Insurance WorksFlorida's insurer of last resort: who qualifies and what to know.