Changes are Coming to the Florida 4-Point Inspection

As of September 1^st, 2018, new requirement for 4-point home inspections will be taking effect. When buying or selling a home, it’s important to understand what this type of a home inspection entails. Remember, in order to get homeowner’s insurance on a newly purchased home that’s over 25 years old, you MUST get a 4-point inspection. No ifs, ands, or buts about it!

4-Point Inspection Changes Taking Effect as of September 1^st, 2018:

1. Minimum Photo Requirements- Photos will now be required for-

   • Each side of the dwelling, not just the front and back

   • Each slope of the roof, predominate and secondary

   • The water heater

   • Under cabinet plumbing/drains, and exposed valves

   • Main electrical panel and subpanels, plus the door label inside the panel

   • Any and all hazards & deficiencies noted in the report

2. Electrical System Changes- The inspector must write in the amperage of the electrical box and state if the amperage is sufficient for the dwelling.

3. HVAC System Changes- Must note the date of the last servicing and/or inspection, plus note if the handler or condensate line shows any signs of leakage or blockage. The age of the HVAC system and year of update has been moved to the supplemental section of the report.

4. Roof Changes- Photo requirement (as noted above) changed to include 1 photo for each predominate and secondary roof slope, plus an expanded list the inspector must go through to identify signs of damage or deterioration (this includes cracking, hail damage, cupping/curling, granule loss, exposed asphalt or felt, soft spots and missing/loose/cracked tiles or tabs).

According to Quigley Inspections (www.QuigleyInspections.com), homeowners should be aware that, “Most insurance companies send their own inspectors out to do their own inspections within 30 days of closing.” This is essential to know, because it highlights the importance of hiring a good inspector so your insurance company doesn’t find additional deficiencies later on and cancel your policy (most will give you a specified amount of time to correct a problem first, but that could cost you significant $$ if it’s a large issue, such as a roof replacement).

For additional questions regarding the home buying or selling process in the Tampa Bay, FL area, be sure to give us a call. We have 30 years of expertise when it comes to helping our neighbors and clients buy and sell homes in the Tampa Bay area. We’re here when you need us!