FLORIDA HOMEOWNER GUIDE
What to Do When You Fail a 4-Point Inspection
Your insurance carrier flagged issues on your 4-point inspection report. Here's exactly what that means, what needs to be fixed, and how to get it done before your deadline.
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What Does "Failing" a 4-Point Actually Mean?
A 4-point inspection is not technically pass/fail — it's a condition report. The inspector documents the current state of four systems in your home: electrical, plumbing, roofing, and HVAC. Your insurance underwriter then reviews the report and decides whether to issue or renew your policy.
When people say they "failed," it means the underwriter found conditions they won't accept. This could be an outdated electrical panel, old plumbing materials, a roof past its expected lifespan, or an aging HVAC unit. The insurer will typically give you a window — 30 to 90 days — to make the repairs and provide updated documentation.
If you don't fix the issues within that window, your policy may be non-renewed. That doesn't mean you're uninsurable — it means this carrier won't cover you with these conditions. Different carriers have different standards, which is why your insurance agent matters.
Common Issues That Get Flagged
These are the most frequent reasons homeowners get flagged on their 4-point inspection in Florida:
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Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels — most carriers require full replacement
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Aluminum wiring — some accept COPALUM remediation (~$3K), others require full copper rewire (~$15K+)
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Double-tapped breakers, exposed wiring, no GFCI in wet areas
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Fuse boxes instead of breaker panels
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Polybutylene pipes (gray plastic) — most carriers decline or exclude water damage
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Cast iron drain lines with corrosion or active leaks
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Water heaters over 15 years old or missing safety features
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Visible leaks, corrosion at fixtures, or galvanized supply lines
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Roof age — most carriers want under 15-20 years depending on material
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Missing or damaged shingles, visible wear, active leaks
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Flat roof sections with ponding water
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No hurricane straps or clips (also affects wind mitigation)
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AC units over 20 years old — carriers flag as end-of-life
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Visible rust, refrigerant leaks, non-functional systems
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Missing disconnect or improper electrical connections
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No maintenance records on older units
Cost Varies Dramatically by Issue
A GFCI outlet install might be $200. A full copper rewire can be $15,000+. The same issue (aluminum wiring) can cost $3,000 or $15,000 depending on which carrier you're with. Always check with your insurance agent about which fix your specific carrier requires before committing to a repair.
What to Do Right Now
If you just got your 4-point report back with issues, here's the path:
Tell Us What Failed
Upload your 4-point report or select the issues yourself. Takes 2 minutes.
We Match You With a Contractor
Our system finds a licensed, insured contractor in your ZIP code who specializes in exactly what failed.
Contractor Contacts You
Your matched contractor reaches out directly — usually within hours. You get a quote and schedule the repair.
Get Re-Inspected
After repairs, your contractor provides documentation. Schedule a re-inspection and submit to your insurer.
Don't wait on your deadline
We connect you with a licensed contractor who specializes in exactly what failed on your report. Free service — you only pay the contractor for the repair.
Not All Insurance Carriers Are the Same
This is the part most homeowners don't realize: different insurance carriers have different standards. A condition that one carrier rejects, another might accept.
The best example is aluminum wiring. Out of 17 major Florida carriers, 6 accept certified remediation (COPALUM or AlumiConn connectors at every junction point). The other 11 require a full copper rewire. That's the difference between a $3,000 fix and a $15,000+ project.
Before you spend money on repairs, talk to your insurance agent about exactly what your carrier requires. If the required fix is expensive, ask your agent whether switching carriers could save you money. Sometimes a different carrier accepts a less expensive repair that your current one doesn't.
After the Repairs Are Done
Once your contractor finishes the work, you'll need documentation to satisfy your insurer:
• Get a copy of the permit (if one was required for your repair)
• Get before/after photos from your contractor
• Get a written invoice or completion letter on company letterhead
• Schedule a re-inspection if your insurer requires one
• Submit everything to your insurance agent before your deadline
Your agent will forward the documentation to underwriting. If everything checks out, your policy gets renewed. Keep copies of everything — you may need it again if you switch carriers later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to use 4Point Services?
Nothing. Our service is completely free to homeowners. You pay the contractor directly for the repair work — we never charge you a fee.
How long do I have to fix the issues?
It depends on your insurance carrier. Some give 30 days, others 60 or 90. Check your letter from your insurer — it will state the deadline. If your policy is up for renewal and you haven't fixed the issues, your carrier may non-renew.
Can I do the repairs myself?
No. Insurance carriers require repairs to be performed by licensed, insured contractors with proper permits pulled. DIY work will not satisfy the re-inspection requirements.
Do I need a new 4-point inspection after repairs?
Usually yes. Your insurer will want an updated report showing the issues have been resolved. Some accept contractor documentation with photos and permits instead of a full re-inspection — check with your agent.
What if my roof is too old but not damaged?
Age alone can trigger a flag. Most carriers want roofs under 15-20 years old. If your roof is older, you may need to replace it even if it's in decent condition, or find a carrier with more flexible age requirements. Your insurance agent can help you shop carriers.
What if I can't afford the repairs right now?
Talk to your insurance agent first — they may be able to find a carrier with different requirements or get an extension. Some contractors offer financing. And some issues (like aluminum wiring) have a cheaper remediation option that certain carriers accept.
Is a 4-point inspection the same as a home inspection?
No. A 4-point inspection covers only four systems: electrical, plumbing, roofing, and HVAC. A full home inspection covers 400+ items. The 4-point is specifically for insurance underwriting, not for buying/selling a home.
Ready to Get Your Repairs Done?
Tell us what failed on your 4-point inspection. We'll match you with a licensed contractor in your area who handles that exact issue. No cost to you — ever.
GET MATCHED WITH A CONTRACTOR
Free service • Licensed contractors only • Florida specialists
4Point Services is not an inspection company, insurance provider, or licensed contractor. We connect homeowners with licensed contractors for 4-point inspection repairs. Final repair requirements are determined by your insurer, inspector, and licensed contractor. Cost estimates are approximate ranges based on market data.