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4-Point vs. Wind Mitigation Inspections in Florida: What Buyers and Sellers Need

What a 4-point inspection and a wind mitigation report cover, why Florida insurers ask for them, and which Pinellas communities have the oldest housing.

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Updated November 3, 2026 · Local data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates

Short answer: A 4-point inspection covers roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC, and insurers use it to decide whether to write an older home. A wind mitigation report (form OIR-B1-1802) documents features like roof-to-wall straps and impact openings that earn windstorm premium discounts. Many buyers need both.

4-point inspection

This isn't a full home inspection. It's a snapshot of four systems for the insurance underwriter: roof (age, condition, remaining life), electrical (panel type, wiring, known-problem panels), plumbing (supply and drain materials, leaks, water heater) and HVAC (age, condition). Carriers commonly require one once a home reaches roughly 25–40 years old, depending on the carrier.

Wind mitigation inspection

This documents roof covering, roof deck attachment, roof-to-wall connection, roof shape, secondary water resistance and opening protection. Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts for qualifying features, and the savings on the windstorm portion can be substantial.

Where housing is oldest in Pinellas

PlaceMedian year builtMedian age
Gulfport196363 yrs
Kenneth City196462 yrs
Harbor Bluffs196462 yrs
Bear Creek196759 yrs
Lealman196858 yrs
St. Petersburg196957 yrs
Treasure Island197056 yrs
Bay Pines197056 yrs
St. Pete Beach197155 yrs
Belleair Bluffs197254 yrs
West Lealman197353 yrs
Greenbriar197353 yrs
Belleair197452 yrs
South Highpoint197452 yrs
Madeira Beach197452 yrs

Median year structure built: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates. The Florida Building Code took effect in 2002, and homes built earlier often lack some wind-resistive features.

Tips

  • Sellers: order a 4-point before listing to surface insurance problems early. See selling an older home.
  • Buyers: book the full inspection, 4-point, wind mitigation and WDO together, then get insurance quotes before your inspection period ends.

Frequently asked questions

How long is a 4-point inspection valid?

Many carriers accept reports up to about a year old. Check with your insurer.

Is a wind mitigation report worth it?

Usually. It's a one-time cost, and the discounts apply each year the features stay in place, typically for up to five years per report.

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