4-Point & Wind Mitigation Inspections in Jacksonville

In Florida, most carriers require a 4-point inspection for homes 20+ years and a wind mitigation inspection (OIR‑B1‑1802) to apply credits. These reports influence eligibility, deductibles, and pricing—often more than a basic application.

Jacksonville homes live hard. Salt air, storms, and sun take a toll—and insurers know it. Duval County carriers use these inspections to assess risk and calculate premiums. A clean 4-point report can mean the difference between standard rates and being placed with non-standard carriers, while wind mitigation credits can reduce annual premiums by 15–40% depending on your home's features.

Beyond underwriting, these inspections serve as a home maintenance roadmap. They highlight systems nearing end-of-life (roofs, HVAC, water heaters) and suggest upgrades that protect your property while lowering insurance costs. In Jacksonville's competitive market, proactive homeowners who address inspection findings before listing often see faster bind times and better quotes.

For broader coverage guidance, see the main Jacksonville home insurance guide and our deep dives on roof age rules and water backup coverage.

For a complete list of available discounts (bundling, mitigation, alarms, claims‑free), the Jacksonville home insurance discounts guide breaks down eligibility and documentation requirements.

The 4-point inspection focuses on four critical systems that drive most home insurance claims: roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Inspectors typically spend 30–45 minutes examining these areas, taking photos, and completing the carrier-specific form. Unlike a full home inspection, this report is designed specifically for insurance underwriting.

Understanding Inspection Results

Inspectors mark each system as acceptable, marginal, or unacceptable. Marginal items may require repairs before binding, while unacceptable items can lead to coverage denial unless addressed. Some carriers accept conditional bindings with a repair timeline, but most prefer clean reports.

Roof concerns: Shingle roofs over 15–20 years often trigger conditional bindings. Carriers may require a roof replacement commitment within 6–12 months or a higher wind deductible. Tile and metal roofs generally age better but still need proper installation documentation.

Electrical red flags: Federal Pacific Stab-Lok panels are fire hazards and almost always require replacement. Aluminum branch wiring (used in the 1960s–70s) may be acceptable if properly terminated, but many carriers still require rewiring or aluminum-to-copper connectors.

Plumbing issues: Polybutylene piping was popular in the 1980s–90s but prone to failure. Many carriers won't cover homes with active polybutylene unless replaced. Galvanized steel pipes corrode over time and may need replacement if heavily rusted.

HVAC condition: Non-functioning systems suggest deferred maintenance and potential water damage risk. Space heaters as primary heat often trigger additional fire/wind concerns. Older R-22 refrigerant systems face phase-out deadlines and may impact coverage availability.

What Happens After a Failed Inspection

If your inspection reveals unacceptable items, carriers may:

• Require repairs before binding: Most common for safety issues (electrical panel defects, active leaks)
• Offer conditional coverage: Bind with a repair timeline (typically 30–90 days) and re-inspection
• Apply exclusions or surcharges: Accept coverage but exclude certain perils or charge higher premiums
• Deny coverage: For severe issues or multiple red flags, especially in non-standard markets

Work with your agent to understand carrier-specific requirements. Some carriers are more lenient on age-related wear if systems are functional, while others strictly enforce replacement timelines.

The OIR-B1-1802 Wind Mitigation Inspection form documents features that reduce hurricane wind damage risk. Florida carriers use this form to calculate premium credits, which can reduce annual costs by hundreds or thousands of dollars. The inspection must be completed by a licensed inspector or qualified contractor.

Jacksonville homes built after 2002 often have better wind-resistant features due to updated building codes post-Hurricane Andrew. Older homes may require upgrades to maximize credits, but even small improvements can yield meaningful savings.

Credit Categories & Impact

Roof-to-Wall Attachment Details

The strongest attachment method uses clips or straps that secure the roof trusses/rafters directly to the wall framing. These connections prevent uplift during high winds. Toe-nailed attachments (nails driven at an angle) are weaker and earn lower credits, while no visible attachment is a red flag.

Inspectors check in the attic, looking at connections around the perimeter. Newer homes typically have clips visible at connection points. If you're planning a roof replacement, ask your contractor to upgrade to clips if not already present—this is one of the most cost-effective wind mitigation improvements.

Roof Deck Attachment

This refers to how the roof decking (plywood or OSB) is attached to the roof framing. Florida building codes require nails at least 2.5 inches long, spaced no more than 6 inches apart in high-wind zones. Secondary water resistance (a waterproof membrane under shingles) provides extra protection if wind removes covering materials.

During a roof replacement, contractors can upgrade deck attachment by using longer nails and adding secondary water barrier. This upgrade typically adds $1,000–$3,000 to a roof job but provides long-term insurance savings and better storm protection.

Opening Protection (Windows & Doors)

Impact windows, rated shutters, or approved coverings on all glazed openings earn the largest wind mitigation credits. All windows and doors must be protected to qualify for full credits—leaving even one opening unprotected can reduce the credit tier.

Impact windows: Double-pane glass with a polymer interlayer that resists shattering. These typically cost $500–$1,200 per opening installed and provide ongoing savings plus improved comfort.

Rated shutters: Accordion, roll-down, or Bahama-style shutters that meet Miami-Dade County standards (TAS 201, 202, or 203). Costs range from $200–$800 per opening depending on style and size.

Hybrid approach: Some homeowners install impact windows on front-facing exposures and shutters on sides/back to balance cost and credits. Confirm with your inspector that partial protection still qualifies for credits.

Roof Geometry

Hip roofs (sloped on all four sides) perform better in high winds than gable roofs (two triangular sides). Hip roofs create less uplift pressure and are less prone to wind-driven rain intrusion. While you can't easily change roof geometry on an existing home, this factor is important for new construction or major renovations.

Some carriers also credit homes with more complex hip designs (cross-hip, mansard) or homes with lower pitch angles that reduce wind exposure. Discuss roof design options with your builder if planning a custom home.

• If replacing your roof: Add secondary water barrier and upgrade deck attachment—these are included in the job cost and provide immediate credits
• If windows are aging: Replace with impact windows rather than standard double-pane—the premium is offset by insurance savings over 5–7 years
• If budget is limited: Start with shutters on the most wind-exposed sides, then add impact windows over time
• Before renewal: Schedule a re-inspection after upgrades to ensure you're getting all eligible credits

Use the inspection to prioritize upgrades with the best ROI, then re‑rate quotes with multiple carriers. Pair with our claims guide on claims history impact to understand long‑term pricing effects and plan your home improvement timeline accordingly.

Many carriers cap shingle roofs at 15–20 years and tile/metal at higher ages if condition is excellent. Post‑storm replacements can unlock better pricing, but documentation is critical.

Jacksonville's coastal location means roofs face salt air, high humidity, frequent storms, and intense UV exposure. These factors accelerate aging, so even well-maintained roofs may need replacement sooner than inland Florida homes.

Carrier-Specific Roof Age Limits

Condition-Based Extensions

Some carriers accept roofs beyond age limits if an inspection shows:

• No missing, cracked, or curled shingles
• Adequate remaining granule coverage (shingles)
• No soft spots, sagging, or structural concerns
• Proper flashing and sealant around penetrations
• Clean gutters and proper drainage

However, even with excellent condition, many carriers still apply higher premiums or require roof replacement commitments within 12–24 months. Discuss options with your agent—some carriers are more flexible than others.

After the Storm: How Roof Repairs Reset Your Premiums

After hurricanes or severe storms, many Jacksonville homeowners replace roofs through insurance claims. These replacements can improve eligibility and pricing, but carriers require:

• Permits: Duval County building permits showing code-compliant installation
• Final inspection: Certificate of completion from city/county inspector
• Contractor documentation: Licensed, insured contractor with warranty information
• Material receipts: Proof of Florida-approved materials (wind-rated shingles, impact-rated tiles)
• Photos: Before/during/after installation photos showing proper installation

Keep all documentation indefinitely—you'll need it for future insurance applications, claims, and if you sell the home. Store digital copies in cloud storage and keep physical copies in a fire-safe location.

Roof Age & Wind Deductibles

Older roofs often trigger higher wind/hurricane deductibles, typically 2–5% of dwelling coverage instead of the standard 1–2%. Some carriers also apply separate deductibles for roof-specific damage (e.g., $500 deductible for non-hurricane wind damage to roof only).

If your roof is approaching age limits, factor replacement costs into your homeownership budget. A new roof can reduce premiums by 10–20% and eliminate conditional bindings, making it a worthwhile investment even if not immediately required.

For detailed information on how roof age specifically impacts eligibility and premiums, see our guide on why roof age impacts home insurance in Jacksonville.

Proper documentation streamlines the underwriting process and helps carriers accurately assess risk. Missing or outdated documents can delay binding or result in higher premiums. Prepare these documents before requesting quotes, especially if you're shopping during peak renewal season (May–August).

Required Inspections

• 4‑Point inspection: Insurer-specific form or equivalent, dated within 12 months (some carriers accept up to 24 months for newer homes). Must include photos of all four systems (roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC).
• OIR‑B1‑1802 Wind Mitigation form: Official Florida form completed by licensed inspector or qualified contractor, dated within 5 years (or after major home changes). Includes photos of roof attachments, opening protection, and structural features.

Roof Documentation (If Replaced)

• Building permit: Duval County permit showing approved installation
• Final inspection certificate: Proof of code-compliant completion
• Contractor license: Florida-licensed roofer with insurance certificates
• Material receipts: Wind-rated shingles/tiles, underlayment, flashing
• Warranty documentation: Manufacturer and contractor warranties
• Installation photos: Before removal, during installation, final result
• Completion date: Exact date roof work finished (affects age calculations)

Home Improvement Documentation

• Window/door replacements: Permits (if required), impact ratings, installation certificates
• Electrical upgrades: Panel replacement permits, electrical inspection certificates
• Plumbing updates: Pipe replacement records, water heater installation dates
• HVAC replacements: Installation dates, efficiency ratings, warranty info

Loss Prevention & Discount Certificates

• Monitored alarm systems: Certificates from ADT, Brinks, SimpliSafe, etc. showing 24/7 monitoring
• Smart home devices: Water leak sensors, automatic water shutoff valves (Moen Flo, Phyn, etc.)
• Fire suppression: Sprinkler system certificates, fire extinguisher service records
• Security cameras: Installation invoices for monitored video systems

Organizing Your Documents

Create a digital folder with subfolders:

• Inspections: 4-point and wind mitigation reports (PDF copies)
• Roof: All roof-related permits, receipts, photos, warranties
• Upgrades: Window, electrical, plumbing, HVAC improvement docs
• Discounts: Alarm certificates, smart device invoices
• Prior policies: Declarations pages from last 3–5 years

Keep physical copies in a fire-safe box, and store cloud backups. Update the folder after any home improvements or inspections. When requesting quotes, attach relevant documents upfront to avoid back-and-forth delays.

Inspection costs vary by inspector experience, home size, location, and urgency. Jacksonville's competitive market means you can often find bundled deals or seasonal promotions. Book inspections during slower periods (fall/winter) for better pricing and faster turnaround.

Finding Qualified Inspectors

In Florida, inspectors should be:

• Licensed: Florida Certified General Contractor, Professional Engineer, or Certified Residential Inspector
• Insured: General liability insurance ($500K+ recommended)
• Experienced: 2+ years completing insurance inspections (ask for references)
• Familiar with carrier forms: Some carriers have proprietary forms requiring specific knowledge

Ask your insurance agent for inspector recommendations—they often work with trusted providers and may offer referral discounts. Avoid inspectors who promise to "pass" your home regardless of condition—this can cause issues with carriers and may be insurance fraud.

What to Expect During Inspection

Preparation: Clear access to attic, electrical panel, water heater, HVAC units. Remove stored items blocking systems. Turn on all utilities (electric, water, gas).

Duration: Combined inspection typically takes 45–90 minutes depending on home size and inspector thoroughness.

During inspection: Inspector will examine roof (exterior and attic access), electrical panel (open panel), plumbing (visible pipes, water heater), and HVAC (system operation). They'll take photos and complete forms on-site or shortly after.

Report delivery: Most inspectors email reports within 24–72 hours. Some offer same-day digital delivery for rush orders. Review reports immediately—if you find errors, contact inspector for corrections before submitting to carriers.

Timeline Considerations

Plan inspections 2–3 weeks before you need quotes to allow time for:

During peak season (May–August), add 1–2 weeks to all timelines due to high demand. Book inspections in January–March for fastest service and best pricing.

After passing inspections and earning wind credits, you can further reduce premiums through strategic discounts and smart coverage choices. These strategies don't require cutting coverage—they optimize your policy to match your actual risk and qualify for all available credits.

Loss Prevention Discounts

• Monitored alarm systems: Central station monitoring (burglar, fire, or both) typically earns 5–15% discounts. Submit monitoring certificates annually to maintain credits. Systems must be professionally monitored (self-monitored systems don't qualify).
• Smart water devices: Automatic water shutoff valves (Moen Flo, Phyn, LeakSmart) and leak sensors can reduce premiums by 3–8% and prevent costly water damage claims. Submit device invoices and monitoring confirmations.
• Fire suppression: Whole-home sprinkler systems earn 5–10% discounts but require significant installation costs. Smoke detectors with central monitoring also qualify for smaller credits.
• New roof credit: Roofs replaced within the last 3–5 years often earn 5–12% discounts. Submit roof replacement documentation (permits, receipts) even if not required for eligibility.

System Upgrades Before Inspection

Addressing marginal items before your inspection prevents conditional bindings and opens access to better carriers:

• Water heater: Replace if 10+ years old—failing water heaters are a common 4-point issue and replacement costs $800–$1,500. New units earn age credits and reduce leak risk.
• HVAC service: Annual maintenance ($150–$300) ensures systems pass inspection and may qualify for HVAC age credits. Replace units 15+ years old if budget allows.
• Electrical fixes: Address double-tapped breakers, outdated panels, or grounding issues before inspection. Minor electrical repairs ($200–$800) prevent conditional bindings.
• Roof repairs: Fix obvious leaks, replace missing shingles, repair flashing. Small repairs ($500–$2,000) can extend roof life and improve inspection results.

Bundling & Multi-Policy Discounts

Bundle home + auto for 15–25% savings on both policies. Some carriers also offer discounts for adding umbrella, boat, or motorcycle policies. Compare bundled vs. unbundled quotes—sometimes separate carriers are still cheaper, but bundling often provides better service and claims handling.

Review bundles annually at renewal. As your auto policy ages and driving record improves, re-quote both policies together to maximize savings. Some carriers offer loyalty discounts after 3–5 years of continuous coverage.

Deductible Strategy

Choosing appropriate deductibles balances premium costs and out-of-pocket risk:

• All Other Perils (AOP) deductible: Standard options are $500, $1,000, $2,500, or $5,000. Increasing from $500 to $2,500 typically saves $200–$600 annually. Only raise if you can comfortably cover the higher deductible.
• Hurricane/wind deductible: Typically 2–5% of dwelling coverage (e.g., $6,000–$15,000 on a $300,000 home). Some carriers allow 1% deductibles for premium, but 2% is standard. Don't go below 1%—premiums increase significantly for minimal risk reduction.
• Separate roof deductible: Some policies have separate deductibles for roof-only damage (e.g., $500 for non-hurricane wind damage to roof). Understand these before binding.

Coverage Optimization

• Dwelling coverage: Ensure replacement cost matches current rebuilding costs (not market value). Over-insuring wastes money; under-insuring risks claim shortfalls. Use online calculators or professional appraisals to verify amounts.
• Personal property: Default is 50% of dwelling coverage, but you can adjust based on actual belongings. Consider scheduled items for high-value jewelry, electronics, or collectibles.
• Loss of use: Typically 20% of dwelling coverage—ensure this covers temporary housing costs if you're displaced after a claim.
• Liability limits: Standard $300K is often sufficient, but consider $500K or umbrella if you have significant assets. Premium difference is usually minimal ($50–$150/year).

Shopping & Comparison Timing

Compare quotes:

• At renewal: Carriers often increase rates 5–15% annually—shopping can find better deals
• After home improvements: New roof, impact windows, or alarm systems may qualify for better rates with different carriers
• After claim-free periods: 3–5 years without claims may open access to preferred carriers
• When moving: New homes or recently purchased properties may qualify for new-customer discounts

Use independent agents who can quote multiple carriers simultaneously. Online quote tools are convenient but may not include all available discounts—work with an agent to ensure you're maximizing credits.

Continue with our comprehensive guide on home insurance discounts in Jacksonville for detailed breakdowns of all available credits, and review why roof age impacts eligibility to understand long-term planning strategies.