🏠 What’s Included in a 4-Point Inspection? Here’s What We Check in Tampa Bay Homes

Tristan Page
May 8
2 min read

If you're buying an older home in the Tampa Bay area, chances are your insurance company will require a 4-point inspection before issuing or renewing a policy. But what exactly is a 4-point inspection—and how is it different from a full home inspection?

Here’s everything Tampa Bay homeowners, buyers, and real estate agents need to know.

🔧 What Is a 4-Point Inspection?

A 4-point inspection is a limited inspection that focuses on the four main systems that insurance companies care about most due to risk and cost of claims:

Roof
Electrical System
Plumbing System
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

This inspection helps insurers assess the condition, age, and remaining useful life of these critical components—especially in older homes (typically 25+ years).

✅ What We Check During a 4-Point Inspection:

1. Roof

Age and material (shingle, metal, tile, etc.)
Signs of leaks or damage
Overall condition and estimated life expectancy

2. Electrical System

Panel type (and if it's outdated or hazardous)
Wiring type (aluminum wiring can be an issue)
Proper grounding and bonding
Condition of outlets, switches, and visible connections

3. Plumbing System

Type of pipes (galvanized, copper, PVC, etc.)
Signs of leaks or corrosion
Water heater age and safety
Evidence of past water damage

4. HVAC System

Age and functionality of the AC and heating units
Signs of damage, rust, or missing components
Proper installation and condition of ductwork

🏡 Why It Matters in Tampa Bay

In Florida—especially coastal areas like Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater—insurance providers are strict. Many won’t offer coverage without a recent 4-point inspection, especially for homes built before 2002.

Even if you're not buying or selling, knowing the state of these four systems can help you:

Budget for repairs or replacements
Prevent unexpected insurance cancellations
Improve your chances of getting affordable coverage

📅 Need a 4-Point Inspection in Tampa Bay?

Summit Property Inspections provides fast, detailed 4-point inspections across the Tampa Bay area. We also bundle 4-point inspections with wind mitigation reports for added savings and better insurance discounts.

📞 Call 727-599-1175 to schedule your inspection today!

Looking to bundle with a full home inspection or wind mitigation report? Ask about our combo packages for Tampa Bay homeowners.

Source: Florida insurance guidelines, Summit Property Inspections field standards.