As part of the insurance company’s risk evaluation during underwriting, a home insurance inspection is conducted. This inspection serves as the insurance company’s due diligence to ensure that your home meets the required standards for insurance coverage.

These are the main types of home inspections we provide for insurance purpose.

4-point inspection
Wind mitigation inspection
Roof Certification

A 4-point inspection is a thorough examination of the four key systems in your home that are relevant to an insurance policy.

During this inspection, insurance companies gather information on the following systems:

• Roof condition and approximate age. Insurance companies often frown on shingle roofs over 20 years old as they have a higher risk for roof leak claims.
• Electrical systems, including the type of wiring and electrical panel brand. Some old breaker boxes are seen as uninsurable.
• Heating and cooling system age and condition, including the ductwork.
• Plumbing fixtures and systems, including water heaters and piping.

Insurance providers may mandate a 4-point inspection for any residence that is over 30 or 40 years old before granting an insurance policy. In Florida, this assessment’s age requirement is even more stringent, reduced to only 20 years, and has become a standard prerequisite for obtaining insurance coverage.

During a 4-point inspection, a professional home inspector will give special attention to the condition of your roof. They will assess its age, examine it for potential leaks, and check for any missing shingles. Notably, certain insurance companies in Florida may raise concerns about roofs that are older than 15 years.

To avoid encountering significant objections from the insurer, it is advisable, if possible, to consider replacing your roof before proceeding with the inspection. This proactive step can prevent potential hurdles during the insurance application process.

While wind mitigation inspections might be optional, they provide a significant advantage that should not be underestimated – the potential to lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums. In essence, these inspections offer remarkable benefits and should not be disregarded.

A wind mitigation inspection is an inspection of a home’s construction to assess its resistance to damage caused by strong winds. It typically includes the evaluation of the following:

• Roof and exterior wall connections (hurricane roof-to-wall strapping or brackets)
• Roof shape and size
• Roof covering materials
• Window or door shapes and sizes
• Presence of hurricane shutters
• The results of a wind mitigation inspection can help you save money on your insurance premiums and assist with repairs needed to strengthen the roof structure.

The Roof Certification Inspection is commonly requested by Florida Insurance Companies when your roof is nearing the end of its useful life. The inspection is completed by Florida licensed home inspectors who inspect and report on the condition and life expectancy of your roof.

After completion of the roof certification inspection, a home inspector will deliver you a two-page report on your roof which will detail damages, repairs, and other concerns attached with pictures. That report is then sent to your insurance agent who will evaluate the report and give direction on what is needed.