When you own or purchase an older home, rental property, or condo in Florida, you will likely need for a 4 point inspection before purchasing a homeowners policy.
Most insurance companies will require a 4 point inspection when a home is older than 40 years, or a rental property is older than 30 years. You can get an insurance quote without an inspection. However, you will need inspection before actually purchasing the policy. We discuss below what an inspection looks at and what will cause a home to not "pass" a four point inspection.
Each FL insurance company has slightly different guidelines on when a 4 point inspection is required, so check with your Independent Insurance Agent. A newer home does not need this inspection. You do not need this for a renters insurance policy.
A Sunshine States Best Home Inspection 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.
Type of Roof Covering (shingles, tile, rolled). The age and condition of the roof. Are there missing shingles or leaks?
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
Is there central heat and air in the home? The age and condition of the system. Are there signs of leaking?
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.