4-Point Inspections in Florida
Rules reviewed October 2026
A 4-point inspection is a short report on the four systems insurers worry about most in older homes. The inspector records the age, type, and condition of each one. Insurers use it to decide whether to write a policy, so the roof section can decide whether you need a new roof first.
When you'll be asked for one
- A 4-point inspection is an insurer requirement, not a building code rule, so the trigger depends on the company.
- Citizens Property Insurance requires one on applications for homes more than 20 years old.
- Private insurers set their own age cutoffs. Ask your agent before you shop, especially if you're buying an older home.
Source: Citizens Property Insurance, inspection requirements.
What it means for your roof
- The inspector reports the roof's age, type, and condition, including any visible damage or deterioration.
- Citizens asks for documentation of at least five years of remaining life on shingle roofs older than 25 years and on tile, metal, slate, or clay roofs older than 50 years.
- If the roof shows less than five years of life left, Citizens requires proof of a full roof replacement before it will write the policy.
- Fix serious problems such as active leaks or signs of leaks before the inspection. Citizens says these should be repaired before the application goes in.
Source: Citizens Property Insurance, inspection requirements.
Who can do it and what it costs
- Citizens requires a Florida-licensed inspector and may reject a form if the license can't be verified.
- Kin Insurance reports that a 4-point inspection booked together with a wind mitigation inspection often runs $150 to $250 total. Booking both at once is usually the cheaper way to do it.
Source: Kin Insurance, Florida wind mitigation requirements.
Common questions
Is a 4-point inspection the same as a home inspection?
No. A full home inspection looks at the whole house for a buyer. A 4-point inspection covers only the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, and is written for an insurer.
Can a bad roof fail a 4-point inspection?
There's no pass or fail grade, but the insurer reads the roof section. If it shows active leaks or too little remaining life, the insurer may decline the policy until the roof is repaired or replaced.
Should I get a wind mitigation inspection at the same time?
Usually yes. Many inspectors do both in one visit, and the wind mitigation report can lower your premium.
Related Florida guides
Roof prices by city:
Sources
This page explains Florida rules in general terms. It is not legal or insurance advice.