Wind Mitigation Inspections: Save Hundreds on Florida Home Insurance
If you own a home in Florida and have not had a wind mitigation inspection, you are probably paying more than necessary for homeowners insurance. This simple inspection can save you hundreds of dollars annually.
What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation inspection documents features of your home that reduce damage during hurricanes and high winds. Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts for homes with qualifying features.
What the Inspector Evaluates
Roof Covering
When was your roof installed, and what type of material is it? Newer roofs built to current building codes qualify for better discounts.
Roof Deck Attachment
How is your roof deck attached to the structure? Stronger attachments using ring-shank nails or screws provide better wind resistance.
Roof-to-Wall Connections
How is your roof connected to the walls? Options from weakest to strongest:
- Toe nails (weakest)
- Clips
- Single wraps
- Double wraps (strongest)
Roof Geometry
Hip roofs (all sides slope down) perform better in hurricanes than gable roofs (triangular ends). A true hip roof qualifies for additional discounts.
Secondary Water Resistance
Is there a secondary barrier to prevent water intrusion if roof covering is blown off? This can be peel-and-stick underlayment or sealed roof decking.
Opening Protection
Are windows, doors, and skylights protected against wind-borne debris? Options include:
- Hurricane shutters
- Impact-resistant glass
- Plywood panels (limited credit)
How Much Can You Save?
Savings vary based on your home features and insurance company, but typical discounts include:
- Hip roof: 5-10%
- Hurricane shutters on all openings: 10-20%
- Impact-resistant glass: 15-25%
- Double wrap roof connections: 15-30%
- Secondary water resistance: 5-15%
Combined savings of $500-1,500 annually are common for homes with strong wind mitigation features.
The Inspection Process
The inspection typically takes 30-60 minutes and includes:
- Exterior inspection of roof and walls
- Attic inspection (if accessible) for roof connections
- Check of window and door protection
- Documentation with photos
Who Can Perform Inspections
Wind mitigation inspections must be performed by:
- Licensed home inspectors
- Licensed general, building, or residential contractors
- Licensed professional engineers
- Licensed professional architects
What It Costs
Most wind mitigation inspections cost between $75-150. Given the potential annual savings, the inspection often pays for itself within months.
When to Get an Inspection
- When purchasing a new home
- After roof replacement or upgrades
- After installing hurricane shutters or impact windows
- When renewing your policy (if you have never had one)
Ready to start saving? Contact us for inspector recommendations or to get a quote that includes your wind mitigation discounts.
