How Should You Prepare for a Four-Point Inspection in Florida?

Confirm the assignment before the appointment

Ask your insurance agent which report form the carrier accepts, who may complete it, and how recent the inspection must be. Give those instructions to the inspector before booking. A four-point inspection documents the roof, electrical, plumbing, and heating/cooling systems for insurance review; it is not a promise that a carrier will issue coverage.

The Florida CFO four-point inspection guide describes the systems and photographs involved. Use the checklist below to help the professional reach and document them, rather than attempting the inspection yourself.

Make the four systems accessible

• Roof and exterior: arrange access to the property and keep exterior routes clear. Let the inspector decide how to inspect and photograph each roof slope safely; do not climb the roof to prepare.
• Electrical: clear the approach to electrical panels. Leave cover removal and any exposed equipment to the qualified professional.
• Plumbing: clear stored items from under sinks and around the water heater so visible pipes, drains, valves, and equipment can be documented.
• Heating and cooling: provide access to indoor and outdoor equipment and visible identification plates. Confirm access arrangements in advance if equipment is behind a locked door or in a restricted area.

Gather records without guessing at ages

Put available roof permits, replacement invoices, system installation records, and repair receipts in one folder. These are useful preparation materials, not a claim that every carrier requires every document. Separate a full replacement from a limited repair: a receipt for patching one leak does not establish that the entire roof was replaced.

If a system’s age is unknown, tell the inspector. Do not convert an estimate or a prior owner’s recollection into a documented installation date. Ask what evidence can resolve the missing information.

After the inspection, close the documentation loop

Review the report for the correct property address, legible photographs, system descriptions, and any items the inspector could not access. Ask the inspector to correct factual mistakes, and ask the insurance agent what the carrier needs next. A repair request, a follow-up photograph, and a new inspection are different tasks; get the carrier’s actual request before arranging additional work.

For a Sarasota or Manatee purchase, coordinate seller access and insurance review with your transaction deadlines. The useful preparation is a complete record and safe access, not a cosmetic effort to hide a condition.

My experience was working with Eric Teoh of Team Renick in searching for and purchasing a condo on Long Boat Key, Florida. Eric went above and beyond in his attentiveness, support, and assistance. My wife and I bought in April 2020 after the COVID pandemic had closed or limited many businesses. Whatever problem we had (such as no service being willing or able to pick up trash or unwanted furniture), Eric rose to the occasion and solved the problems for us. No issue was too big or too insignificant. He was knowledgeable about inventory, pricing and legalities. I’ve brought a number of residences but never have had a more positive and satisfying experience.

– Tom OHara, Google Review

Mike Renick and Eric Teoh have been 5 star Realtors for many, many years. Both individuals have been cooperative and pleasant to any of my requests. While I am away from my Longboat residence Eric has willingly checked on the conditions and status of our unit. I would highly recommend both for real estate needs.

– Peter Cutler, Google Review

Ask your insurance agent for the accepted form and inspector requirements, then send them to the inspector with your available system records before the appointment.

About the Author

I’m Michael Renick — a Florida West Coast broker with over 15 years guiding families through some of the biggest decisions of their lives. I’ve built my practice on hard work, honesty, and total transparency. No shortcuts, no spin — just straight answers, deep market knowledge, and the dedication my clients deserve from start to close.

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Equal Housing Opportunity. This article is general information only, not legal, tax, insurance, or financial advice. Market conditions, insurance requirements, and costs vary by property and transaction; confirm your specific situation with the appropriate licensed professional. Michael Renick, Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker, License #BK3241900, licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Mangrove Realty Associates Inc — each office is independently owned and operated.

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