Sometimes, but it is an insurance problem first. A four point inspection is an insurance underwriting report, not a loan document. If the home cannot be insured, the loan cannot close. Failed items usually need to be repaired, or the insurer must agree to cover the home as is.
A four point inspection looks at four systems: the roof, electrical, plumbing and heating and cooling. Citizens Property Insurance requires one for properties more than 20 years old, performed by a Florida licensed inspector. Private insurers set their own rules and age thresholds.
The roof gets the most attention. Citizens asks for documentation that roofs older than 25 years (shingle and similar) or 50 years (tile, slate, clay, concrete or metal) have at least five years of useful life left. If less remains, it asks for proof of a full roof replacement before it writes the policy.
A lender needs proof of acceptable insurance before closing. So a failed item matters in two ways: the insurer may decline or add conditions, and the lender may not close without the policy. Fannie Mae's insurance chapter sets the standard requirements for property coverage, and each lender applies its own checklist on top.
The four systems on a four point inspection
| System | What the inspector records |
|---|---|
| Roof | Age, type and condition, with photos |
| Electrical | Age, type and condition of wiring and panel |
| Plumbing | Age, type and condition of the plumbing |
| Heating and cooling | Age, type and condition of the system |
Based on Citizens' published inspection requirements. Other insurers can differ.
What to do
- Order the four point inspection and ask for an insurance quote before the inspection period ends.
- Read every failed or flagged item. Ask the agent which ones the insurer will actually require fixing.
- Get repair estimates and ask the seller to repair or credit the cost.
- Send the inspection and the insurer's response to your lender early.
- If the home cannot be insured, decide whether to walk away while you still can.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Confirm with your title company or attorney.
Sources
- Citizens Property Insurance, Inspections. Four point required for properties more than 20 years old; roof age and remaining life rules. Source type: Official. Checked October 17, 2026.
- Fannie Mae Selling Guide, Subpart B7, Insurance. Property and flood insurance requirements for financed homes. Source type: Official. Checked October 17, 2026.