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Wind Mitigation vs. Four-Point Inspection

Both are common Florida insurance inspections, but they document different property features and serve different underwriting purposes.

Marco Island focused Plain-language guidance
01Local ContextSouthwest Florida conditions02Clear ComparisonsNo industry guesswork03Practical ChecklistKnow what to prepare04Defined ScopeUnderstand the limitations

QUICK ANSWER

The most important distinction—up front.

A wind mitigation inspection documents qualifying construction features that may reduce wind-loss risk and support available insurance credits. A four-point inspection documents the age, type, and visible condition of the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.

AT A GLANCE

Start with the decision you need to make.

These three perspectives organize the topic before the guide moves into the details, records, limitations, and next steps.

01

Wind Mitigation

Documents supported wind-resistant construction features.

  • Roof-deck attachment
  • Roof-to-wall connection
  • Roof geometry
  • Opening protection
02

Four-Point

Documents four major systems for underwriting review.

  • Roof condition
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • HVAC
03

Ordering Both

Common when starting or renewing a Florida property policy.

  • Separate reports
  • Shared appointment
  • Supporting photographs
  • Carrier makes final decision
01

What wind mitigation documents

The inspection records supported construction features associated with wind resistance. The approved form relies on visible evidence, permits, product approvals, or other qualifying documentation—not assumptions based only on appearance.

  • Building-code era
  • Roof-covering information
  • Roof-deck attachment
  • Opening protection documentation
02

What the four-point documents

The four-point report is concerned with the major systems most often reviewed by insurance underwriters. It records system information and visible concerns but does not calculate wind credits.

  • Roof age and condition
  • Electrical panel and wiring
  • Plumbing materials and leaks
  • HVAC age and condition
03

Why documentation matters

A feature may be present but not receive credit if it cannot be verified to the form’s requirements. Permits, labels, product approvals, and installation records can help the inspector support an accurate classification.

  • Shutter labels
  • Impact-glass markings
  • Roof permits
  • Prior mitigation reports
04

What happens after the inspection

T.A.P. completes and delivers the applicable report with supporting photographs. Your insurance agent or carrier applies its own underwriting rules, discounts, expiration policies, and eligibility decisions.

  • Review the report for accuracy
  • Send it to the requesting party
  • Retain supporting documents
  • Ask the carrier about available credits

PROPERTY-DECISION CHECKLIST

What to remember.

Use these points when speaking with your inspector, insurance professional, association, contractor, or other advisor.

01Wind mitigation and four-point inspections are not interchangeable02Qualifying evidence matters as much as visible features03The carrier—not the inspector—calculates credits04Both reports can usually be coordinated at one appointment

RELATED T.A.P. SERVICE

Document the home’s wind-resistant features

See what T.A.P. reviews, what records help, and how to schedule a wind mitigation inspection.

Explore Wind Mitigation →

COMMON QUESTIONS

Clear answers before you schedule.

Does a wind mitigation inspection guarantee a discount?+

No. The report documents qualifying features. The insurance carrier determines whether credits apply and how they affect the policy premium.

How long is a wind mitigation report valid?+

Florida insurers commonly use a report for a limited period, but acceptance can vary. Confirm current requirements with your agent or carrier before relying on an older report.

Do impact windows automatically qualify?+

They must be supported by acceptable markings, product approvals, permits, or other documentation and must satisfy the form’s requirements. Appearance alone may not be enough.

Should I provide an older report?+

Yes. An older report may identify previously documented features and can help the inspector understand what supporting information may be available, though a current inspection may still be required.

MARCO ISLAND • NAPLES • FORT MYERS

Need property-specific answers?

General guidance is a starting point. A properly scoped inspection evaluates the visible and accessible conditions of the actual property.

Request an InspectionCall 239-276-0216
This guide provides general educational information. It does not replace a property-specific inspection, insurance instruction, engineering opinion, legal advice, remediation protocol, or medical advice.