Four-Point Inspection Red Flags: What Florida Insurers Question
The electrical panels, wiring, plumbing, roofs, and HVAC conditions that most often cause trouble on a Florida four-point inspection — and what to do about them.
Quick answer
What causes problems on a four-point inspection?
Common four-point red flags include roofs near the end of their useful life or with active leaks; Federal Pacific Stab-Lok, Zinsco, and fuse panels; knob-and-tube, cloth-insulated, or unremediated aluminum branch wiring; polybutylene and galvanized supply piping; active plumbing leaks; and very old or non-functioning HVAC and water heaters. Insurer guidelines vary, so these items don't automatically block coverage, but they often require repair or replacement.
Key takeaways
- Roof condition and remaining life are the most common issue.
- Certain panel brands and wiring types are declined by many carriers.
- Polybutylene and galvanized supply lines are frequent plumbing concerns.
- Knowing early lets buyers get estimates during the inspection period.
Roof
- Roofs with little remaining useful life (many carriers look for several years remaining)
- Active leaks, missing or damaged shingles or tiles, or visible deterioration
- Multiple layers of roofing on older homes
Electrical
- Federal Pacific Electric (Stab-Lok) and Zinsco/Sylvania-Zinsco panels, which many carriers decline
- Fuse panels in place of circuit breakers
- Knob-and-tube or cloth-insulated wiring
- Aluminum branch wiring (common in homes built roughly 1965–1973) without approved remediation
- Double taps, scorching, open knockouts, or amateur wiring
- Undersized service for the home's needs
Plumbing
- Polybutylene supply piping (installed roughly 1978–1995)
- Galvanized steel supply lines, which corrode internally
- Active leaks or evidence of recent leaks
- Water heaters well past their expected life or with improper relief valve discharge
HVAC
- Systems that don't operate or don't cool properly
- Very old equipment, especially with evidence of leaks or rust
- Condensate overflow damage at the air handler
What to do if a red flag turns up
- Ask your insurance agent whether the item is a deal-breaker for your carrier — or for others.
- Get a licensed contractor's estimate during your inspection period.
- Negotiate a repair, credit, or price reduction with the seller.
- After repairs, get an updated four-point to document the change.
Frequently asked questions
Will every insurer decline a Federal Pacific panel?
Not every one, but many do. Ask your agent before assuming either way.
Can a seller fix a red flag before closing?
Yes, if the contract allows time. Make sure work is permitted and documented so the updated four-point reflects it.
