4-Point vs. Full Home Inspection vs. Wind Mitigation: What Florida Homeowners Really Need in 2025

Florida homeowners continue to face some of the strictest insurance requirements in the country, and understanding which inspections you actually need can save thousands of dollars—and countless headaches. At My Florida Pros, our licensed inspectors and engineers provide statewide home inspections, 4-Point reports, and Wind Mitigation inspections for both insurance and real-estate transactions.

Below is a clear breakdown of the differences, when each inspection is required, and how they can protect you and reduce insurance costs.

What Is a 4-Point Inspection?

A 4-Point Inspection focuses on the four major systems insurance companies care about:

✔ Roof

✔ Electrical

✔ Plumbing

✔ HVAC (Air Conditioning & Heating)

Most insurance carriers in Florida require a 4-Point for homes older than 20–30 years, especially in:

• Miami-Dade

• Broward

• Palm Beach

• Brevard

• Orlando/Orange County

• Tampa/Hillsborough

• Lee & Collier County

• Pensacola & the Panhandle

Insurance companies use this inspection to determine whether the home poses a risk. Older systems, outdated wiring, leaks, or damaged roofs can result in limited coverage or outright denial.

Common insurance questions covered in a 4-Point:

• Age of the roof

• Type of wiring (ex: cloth, aluminum, copper)

• Age and condition of the HVAC system

• Visible leaks or plumbing issues

• Panel type (Federal Pacific, Zinsco, etc.)

What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

A Wind Mitigation Inspection identifies how well your home is built to handle hurricane-force winds. The State of Florida requires insurance companies to give homeowners premium discounts for wind-resistant features.

This inspection evaluates:

✔ Roof covering (shingles, tile, metal)

✔ Roof-to-wall connection (clips, straps, nails)
✔ Roof deck nailing pattern
✔ Roof geometry (hip, gable, flat)
✔ Secondary water barrier (SWB)
✔ Opening protection (impact windows, shutters, doors)

Why this matters:

Wind Mitigation inspections can reduce insurance premiums by 20–60% depending on the home and the county.

Areas with major savings include:
Miami, Kendall, Homestead, Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Naples, Cape Coral, Port St. Lucie, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville.

What Is a Full Home Inspection?

A Full Home Inspection is the most comprehensive evaluation of the property. It is typically used for real estate transactions, pre-purchase due diligence, and general condition assessments.

A full inspection includes:

• Roof

• Structure

• Exterior walls

• HVAC

• Electrical

• Plumbing

• Attic

• Insulation

• Appliances

• Windows & doors

• Water intrusion

• Thermal imaging (Level II thermography available through My Florida Pros)

• Moisture detection

• Lots & grounds

This inspection is focused on protecting the buyer, identifying safety hazards, estimating repair costs, and documenting deficiencies.

Which Inspection Do You Really Need?

Buying a home?

You need a Full Home Inspection, plus a 4-Point and Wind Mitigation if the home is older than 20 years.

Renewing insurance?

You likely need a 4-Point and Wind Mitigation to avoid policy cancellation or to secure credits/discounts.

Trying to lower premiums?

Start with a Wind Mitigation Inspection—it offers the largest savings.

Selling a home?

A current Wind Mitigation and 4-Point will help buyers secure faster insurance approval.

Older roof or electrical system?

The insurer will require updated documentation to continue coverage.

Why Choose Florida Builders Engineers & Inspectors?

Florida Builders Engineers & Inspectors of the My Florida Pros Network offers statewide coverage, powered by:

• Licensed engineers

• Certified home inspectors

• Level II thermographers

• Licensed PSM surveyors

• FAA commercial pilot Roger Morales for rapid statewide deployment

• Same-day and next-day service available

• Professional reports with photos, repair estimates, moisture readings, and thermal imaging

We proudly serve all 67 Florida counties — Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Brevard, Orange, Hillsborough, Lee, Duval, Pinellas, Collier, St. Johns, Volusia, Monroe, and more.

Conclusion: Stay Protected and Insurance-Ready

Whether you’re buying a home, renewing insurance, or trying to reduce premiums, the right inspection can save you thousands of dollars and ensure your home is safe and compliant.

My Florida Pros provides accurate, fast, insurance-approved inspections trusted by homeowners, realtors, lenders, and insurance companies across Florida.

📞 Call/Text: 305-710-8383
📧 roger@inspectionsandengineering.com
🌐 www.InspectionsandEngineering.com