Buying · Insights

Home Inspections in Florida: What to Expect

By Arthur Simpson — Florida Attorney, Broker & CIPS

Your inspection is your best protection before buying. Here's what gets checked in Florida, the extra inspections unique to our market, and how to use the results.

The general home inspection

A licensed inspector examines the roof, structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and major systems, looking for safety issues and deferred maintenance. You'll get a detailed report, usually within a day or two.

Florida-specific inspections

Expect to consider a wind-mitigation inspection (lowers insurance), a 4-point inspection on older homes (roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC — often required by insurers), and a WDO/termite inspection. These matter more here than in most states.

The inspection period

Florida contracts include an inspection period during which you can investigate and, depending on the contract, cancel or renegotiate. Using it well — and on time — is where an attorney-broker protects you.

Turning findings into leverage

Inspection results can support a repair request, a credit, or a price adjustment — or tell you to walk away. We help you respond strategically and keep the deal protected. Buying soon? Let's talk →

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Frequently asked questions

What does a home inspection cover in Florida?
The roof, structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and major systems, with a detailed report on safety issues and maintenance. In Florida, buyers often add wind-mitigation, 4-point, and termite (WDO) inspections.
What is a 4-point inspection?
An inspection of the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, frequently required by insurers for older Florida homes before they will write a policy.
What is the inspection period?
A window in the Florida contract when you can inspect the home and, depending on the contract terms, cancel or renegotiate. Meeting its deadlines is critical.
Can I negotiate after the inspection?
Often yes — findings can support a repair request, a closing credit, or a price adjustment, or justify canceling. An attorney-broker helps you respond strategically.

Keep reading: How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Florida? · Florida Homestead Exemption: How to Lower Your Property Taxes · Buying a Beachside Home in Volusia County: What to Know · All insights →

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About the author — Arthur Simpson

Arthur is a Florida attorney, licensed real estate broker, and Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), and a member of the Real Property and International Law Sections of The Florida Bar. He founded Simpson & Simpson Realty to give Volusia & Flagler families — and buyers from around the world — a brokerage with a real estate attorney's eye on every deal. Meet Arthur & the family →