Florida insurers usually ask older homes for a 4-point inspection (roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC). The items most often flagged are aging roofs, polybutylene or galvanized pipes, and Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels. A wind mitigation inspection on form OIR-B1-1802 can earn premium discounts for hurricane features.
The usual reasons Florida insurers say no
| Item | Why insurers flag it | Usual fix |
|---|---|---|
| Roof near the end of its life | Leaks and wind damage claims | Repair, or replace and get a roof certification |
| Polybutylene or galvanized pipes | Known to fail and leak | Repipe with PEX or copper |
| Federal Pacific, Zinsco or fuse panels | Fire risk | Panel replacement |
| Old or cloth-wrapped wiring, knob-and-tube | Fire risk | Rewire affected circuits |
| Old water heater, no drain pan | Water damage | Replace, add pan and shutoff |
| No opening protection | Hurricane wind damage | Impact windows and doors, or approved shutters |
Each insurer sets its own rules. Read the exact items listed in your inspection report or non-renewal letter.
Two inspections worth knowing
- 4-point inspection: roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC. Often required for older homes before a policy is written or renewed.
- Wind mitigation inspection (form OIR-B1-1802): records the features that earn wind discounts. A free one is available through My Safe Florida Home if you qualify.
Common questions
What is a 4-point inspection?
It's a short inspection of a home's roof, electrical, plumbing and heating/air conditioning that many Florida insurers ask for on older homes, often those around 30 years or older. It shows the insurer the age and condition of each system.
What is a wind mitigation inspection?
It records your home's wind-resistant features on Florida's official form, OIR-B1-1802: roof covering, roof deck attachment, roof-to-wall connections, roof shape and opening protection. Insurers use it to apply wind discounts.
Can upgrades lower my Florida insurance premium?
Often yes. Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts for documented wind mitigation features, such as hurricane straps, impact windows or shutters, and a secondary water barrier. Ask your agent how much each feature is worth on your policy.
Is there help paying for hurricane upgrades?
The state's My Safe Florida Home program offers free wind mitigation inspections and grants, with priority for lower-income homeowners and seniors. Funding is limited and first come, first served.