A Four Point Inspection is an evaluation of the four major systems of a home: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and roof and confirm these systems are up to date and in good working condition.

Four Point Inspections are often required by insurance companies before agreeing to insure the home. Generally includes:

ELECTRICAL - to make sure the system is grounded, and there are no hazards  (wiring material, electrical box brand, etc.)

PLUMBING - no signs of existing leaks, type of drain lines

HVAC - Sufficiency for size of the home, Power source (electric/gas)

ROOF - Type of covering, age, condition (remaining life expectancy / damages)

A wind mitigation inspection is a visual inspection used to determine a home’s ability to withstand damage caused by wind, including areas of improvement.

Home inspectors identify components of a home that perform well in high wind situations, using standards determined by the State.

The following are the components reviewed by your Tampa bay home inspector during a wind mitigation inspection:

Original construction date

Roof installation date and material

Roof decking material and attachment

Roof to wall connection type

Roof geometry

Secondary water resistance

Glazed and non-glazed opening protection

The State of Florida has set a minimum and a maximum discount for each component reviewed during a wind mitigation inspection. Once your home inspector completes the inspection, a report is sent to your insurance agency where it is reviewed, and an appropriate discount is determined. Although they are not required in Florida, wind mitigation inspections are one of the best kept secrets in the insurance industry as they are the only inspection that can significantly reduce insurance costs.