Introduction

Buying a home in Florida? Renewing your homeowner’s insurance? If you’ve spoken to a real estate agent or insurance company, you’ve probably heard these two phrases: wind mitigation inspection and 4 point inspection. They might sound like technical mumbo jumbo—but trust me, they’re anything but.

In fact, these inspections could save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars a year on insurance. Even more importantly, they can uncover issues that help protect your home from Florida’s most destructive forces—like hurricanes, flooding, and power surges.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • What each inspection actually covers

  • Which one you need (or if you need both)

  • How they affect your insurance premiums

  • And how to prepare like a pro

What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

A wind mitigation inspection evaluates how well your home can handle extreme wind—especially from hurricanes. It’s designed to identify specific building features that reduce wind damage. If your house includes these features, insurance companies often offer serious discounts.

What’s Checked in a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

  • Roof shape (hip roofs = better)

  • Roof covering age and materials

  • How the roof is attached to the walls

  • Secondary water barrier under the roof

  • Impact-resistant windows or shutters

  • Reinforced garage doors

Homes with these wind-resistant features can qualify for discounts up to 40% on their windstorm portion of insurance.

What Is a 4 Point Inspection?

Unlike a full home inspection, the 4 point inspection focuses on the four major systems that cause the most insurance claims:

  1. Electrical

  2. Plumbing

  3. Roof

  4. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning)

Insurance companies usually require a 4 point inspection for homes over 20 years old to evaluate risk. If any of these systems are outdated or failing, it could make the home uninsurable.

Why These Inspections Matter in Florida

Florida’s no stranger to hurricanes, tropical storms, and sudden weather shifts. Because of this, insurance companies are extra cautious. They want to know:

  • Is your house wind-resistant?

  • Are the electrical and plumbing systems safe?

  • Is the roof in good shape?

Failing to provide these reports could delay insurance or even make it harder to get coverage at all. But with the right inspections, you might just unlock big-time discounts and smoother renewals.

Wind Mitigation: Breaking Down the Details

Roof Type

Hip roofs perform better in high wind and often get more insurance credits.

Roof-to-Wall Attachments

Inspectors check for clips, straps, or wraps—these metal connectors are strong points between the roof and wall frame.

Roof Deck Attachment

How well your roof sheathing (plywood or OSB) is nailed matters! More nails and tighter spacing = better performance.

Opening Protection

Hurricane shutters, impact glass, and garage door reinforcements all help protect against flying debris.

Secondary Water Barrier

An added moisture layer underneath shingles prevents interior water damage if the roof is compromised.

4 Point Inspection: What’s Checked

1. Electrical System

Inspectors examine:

  • Breaker panels

  • Wiring types (aluminum is a red flag)

  • GFCI outlets

  • Fuse boxes

2. Plumbing System

They look at:

  • Pipe materials (copper > galvanized)

  • Water heaters

  • Visible leaks or corrosion

3. HVAC System

Expect them to check:

  • Heating and cooling units

  • Ductwork

  • Age and maintenance

4. Roof Condition

They assess:

  • Age and material

  • Visible wear, leaks, or missing shingles

  • Overall integrity

Inspection Costs and How Long They Take

  • Wind Mitigation: $75–$150

  • 4 Point: $100–$175

  • Bundle Pricing: Many inspectors offer both for $150–$250

Inspection Time: Most take about 30–60 minutes.
Report Validity: Wind mitigation is good for 5 years, 4 point reports may be needed for each policy renewal.

How to Choose a Qualified Inspector

Make sure your inspector is:

  • State-licensed (Florida DBPR)

  • Experienced in wind mitigation and 4 point inspections

  • Has positive reviews or referrals

Avoid:

  • Unlicensed contractors

  • “Too cheap to be true” pricing

  • Lack of sample reports

How to Prepare for the Inspection

For Wind Mitigation:

  • Clear attic access

  • Roof documentation (age, permits)

  • Shutter or impact glass receipts

For 4 Point:

  • Make sure breaker panel is accessible

  • Clean around water heater and AC unit

  • Provide upgrade history if applicable

Submitting Reports to Your Insurance Company

Once complete, your inspector will email you a PDF. Forward this to your insurance agent. They will:

  • Apply discounts (wind mitigation)

  • Use 4 point results to confirm eligibility

Tip: If repairs are required, fix them ASAP and request a reinspection.

Common Myths About These Inspections

Myth 1: I Only Need One

Wrong. You might need both, especially if your home is older but also recently upgraded.

Myth 2: New Homes Don’t Qualify for Wind Mitigation

False. New homes often have modern protections and can still earn credits.

Myth 3: These Reports Are Just Paperwork

In truth, they can literally slash hundreds off your premiums and uncover issues that save you future headaches.

Real Stories from Florida Homeowners

Brenda in Orlando: “My wind mitigation inspection saved me $780 per year after I added shutters!”

Mark in Tampa: “My old electric panel failed the 4 point. Replacing it not only got me insurance but gave me peace of mind.”

Lisa in Miami: “Getting both inspections done as a bundle made the process easier and cheaper.”

Conclusion

If you live in Florida, wind mitigation inspections and 4 point inspections aren’t just suggestions—they’re must-haves.

Wind mitigation can lower your costs and reward you for making your home stronger. A 4 point inspection ensures your major systems are safe and insurable. Together, they make your insurance cheaper and your home safer.

Don’t wait for a storm—or an insurance denial. Schedule your inspections today and take control of your home’s protection and savings.

FAQs

1. How long are inspection reports valid?

Wind mitigation reports are usually valid for 5 years. 4 point inspections may need updating for each insurance renewal.

2. Will these inspections uncover every issue?

No, they focus on specific areas. For a full picture, get a full home inspection.

3. Can I do these inspections myself?

No. Florida requires them to be done by licensed professionals.

4. What if I fail the 4 point inspection?

Make the needed repairs and get re-inspected. Many insurance companies will work with you.

5. How do I book both inspections?

Search for local, licensed Florida inspectors and ask for a bundled inspection package.