What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
What are Storm Mitigation Credits?
$250 for a WIND MITIGATION INSPECTION!
Have you heard that the State of Florida requires insurance companies to offer reduced rates for homes with certain hurricane resistant features?
According to Florida Statutes, insurance companies are required to offer Florida homeowners “discounts or credits” for construction techniques that reduce damage and loss in windstorms. These discounts which became effective in 2003, can save you up to 60% on your windstorm insurance and can be obtained by having a mitigation inspection performed on your home.
Wind Mitigation Inspection is not a code inspection or if your home passes or fails. However, it can offer discounts you may receive from your insurance company
How can my home qualify for wind mitigation insurance discounts?
Wind mitigation discounts are justified due to stronger, more wind-resistant houses have better wind profile resistant. Lower windstorm damage or losses equal reduced costs for the insurance companies. These savings are then passed on to the consumers. Over 90% of existing homes have one or more of the wind resistive construction features and may qualify for some type of insurance discount. Homes built after 2002 in Florida were mandated to incorporate many wind resistive construction features that will qualify for significant credits. However, older homes may also have these features as well due to superior quality craftsmanship. Having a quality wind mitigation inspection can offer you reduced insurance rates and a sense of well being during Florida storms. For precise discounts, please contact your insurance company directly.
What building features will reduce wind damage?
- Roof coverings that meet the FBC (Florida Building Code) requirements
- Shape of roof (hip, gable, flat, etc…)
- Roof decks that have been installed with 8d x 2 1/2′ or longer nails and 4″ to 6″ spacing
- The Material of the roof deck and if 1/2″ or 3/4″ toung and groove, CDX, or plywood etc
- Hurricane clips or straps that attach the roof structure to the walls. This stabilizes the roof system
- Protection of openings (windows and doors) with shutters or impact-rated doors and glass “for small or large objects.”
- Secondary water barrier that prevents the roof from leaking if the roof covering is damaged. This is fairly new to the industry and now mandated for all new roof replacements
After 1994, condos and homes that were built to the Florida Building Code of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Some homes built before this date may still qualify for discounts due simple changes made during repairs, construction, or roof replacement.
How long is a wind mitigation inspection in effect for?
Insurance Wind Mitigation Inspections will be applied for the next 5 years or until structural upgrades have been made to the home. Your insurance premiums will reflect your savings of wind mitigation inspection for the next five years.
If I have made structural upgrades, will I need a new Wind Mitigation Inspection?
Insurance companies recommend a new wind mitigation inspection to reflect the proper coverage of your home.
Will all structural upgrades help reduce my homeowner’s insurance premium?
Yes, if the upgrades were done by a licensed, qualified contractor. Many home repairs completed by a non-licensed person will not qualify due to the fact that they do not meet industry standards. Permits are essential for the work performed because it provides documentation of who completed the work and if it meets or exceeds minimum Florida Building Codes.
Homeowners who have had a Wind Mitigation Inspection performed have greatly benefited personally and financially from this type of service. lower your insurance costs today, by scheduling your wind mitigation today. Invest a little to save a lot.
So what is a Storm Mitigation Credits? Are you receiving your fair share?
Click here to learn more about potential storm mitigation insurance credits your home could be receive.
