4-Point Insurance Inspection
If your home is 25+ years old in a coastal or hurricane-exposed state, your insurance carrier almost certainly wants a 4-point before they'll write or renew. Here's what they check, what fails, and what it costs in 2026.
What each "point" covers
| System | What inspector reports | Common fail |
|---|---|---|
| Roof | Age, material, remaining useful life, visible damage | <5 yrs life left, shingle curling, sagging |
| Electrical | Panel brand, amperage, wiring type, GFCI presence | Federal Pacific / Zinsco / knob-and-tube |
| Plumbing | Supply line material, drain material, water heater age | Polybutylene supply, leaking cast iron |
| HVAC | Age of units, type (central / window / mini-split), condition | 15+ years old, R-22 refrigerant systems |
Worried a system might fail?
HomeScore tracks remaining useful life on roof, electrical panel, plumbing, and HVAC — so you know what your insurer will flag before you ever schedule the inspection.
Frequently asked
What is a 4-point inspection?+
An insurance-required inspection of four systems: roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Carriers use it to confirm none of the four are at end-of-life before binding or renewing a homeowners policy. Required by most insurers in FL, LA, TX, MS, AL, SC for homes 25+ years old.
How much does a 4-point inspection cost in 2026?+
$75–$175 nationally. Bundled with a full home inspection, $50–$100 add-on. Standalone for renewals, $100–$200. Often cheaper than a single month of the premium increase that comes with no inspection.
What fails a 4-point?+
Roof <5 years of remaining life, federal pacific / Zinsco / Stab-Lok panels, knob-and-tube wiring, polybutylene plumbing, cast iron drains with active leaks, HVAC over 15 years old. One fail can mean carrier declines or non-renewal.
Is a 4-point the same as a wind mitigation inspection?+
No. 4-point qualifies you for coverage. Wind mitigation (separate form) gets you discounts. In FL most owners get both in the same visit for $150–$275 total.
How long is a 4-point valid?+
Most carriers accept 4-points for 12 months. Some require a fresh one at every renewal. The form (Citizens 4-point, ACORD, or carrier-specific) matters — confirm with your agent before scheduling.