Common Issues Found During Insurance Inspections (and How to Fix Them)
Insurance inspections, like 4-Point and Wind Mitigation inspections, help Florida homeowners stay covered, avoid unexpected cancellations, and even save money on premiums.
But what happens if something does show up on your report?
The good news: most issues are common, fixable, and often inexpensive when caught early.
Here’s a breakdown of the issues we see most often during insurance inspections, and simple ways to address each one.
1. Roof Wear or Damage
Roof problems are one of the biggest reasons insurance companies raise red flags, especially in Florida’s weather.
Common findings include:
Missing or lifted shingles
Exposed nail heads
Soft spots
Age concerns
Signs of past leaks
How to fix it:
Patch or replace damaged shingles
Reseal exposed nails
Repair small areas before they become bigger issues
Schedule a roofing assessment if the roof is nearing end of life
A well-maintained roof can also improve your chances of qualifying for Wind Mitigation credits.
2. Outdated or Unsafe Electrical Panels
Electrical systems are a major safety concern for insurers.
We commonly see:
Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels
Aluminum branch wiring
Double taps or unsafe breakers
Lack of grounding
How to fix it:
Replace outdated panels with a modern, approved panel
Have an electrician evaluate and repair aluminum wiring if present
Correct double taps or overloaded circuits
Upgrading your electrical system not only helps with insurance approval, it improves long-term safety.
3. Plumbing Issues & Old Water Heaters
Water damage is costly, which is why insurers pay close attention to plumbing.
Common findings include:
Older water heaters
Corrosion or rust around connections
Evidence of leaks
Polybutylene pipes in older homes
How to fix it:
Replace aging water heaters
Repair minor leaks immediately
Consider repiping if your home has polybutylene
Keep plumbing receipts, insurers often want documentation
Small fixes now can prevent large claims later.
4. HVAC Problems
Your heating and cooling system doesn’t have to be brand-new, but insurers want it to be safe and functional.
Common problems found:
Systems older than 15–20 years
Non-functioning units
Rusted drip pans
Missing insulation on refrigerant lines
How to fix it:
Schedule an HVAC tune-up
Replace missing or damaged insulation
Address leaks quickly
Plan ahead for replacement if the system is aging out
A functional HVAC system is required for most insurance policies.
5. Missing Wind Protection Features
During Wind Mitigation inspections, we sometimes find:
No roof-to-wall straps
Weak roof decking attachment
Non-impact windows
Garage doors without bracing
No storm shutters
How to fix it:
Upgrade to impact windows or install shutters
Reinforce your garage door
Install clips or straps during your next roof replacement
Add a secondary water barrier when reroofing
Many of these upgrades qualify for insurance discounts, making them worth the investment.
6. Minor Issues That Are Easy Wins
Not everything is major, some items are quick fixes that make a big difference, like:
Replacing missing GFCI outlets
Repairing small roof sealant gaps
Securing loose wiring
Updating smoke detectors
These simple updates often resolve an inspection note and help the home pass insurance requirements smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Insurance inspections aren’t meant to be scary, they’re designed to keep your home safe and protect your coverage.
Most issues we find are common, manageable, and easy to fix with a little attention.
If you’ve recently received an insurance inspection request or want to make sure your home is ready, we’re here to help.
At Taylor-Made Home Inspections, we provide clear, detailed 4-Point and Wind Mitigation reports with fast turnaround times, helping Pensacola homeowners stay insured and save money.
