Wind Mitigation Inspections Explained: How They Can Save You Money
If you’re a Florida homeowner, you already know, hurricanes and high winds come with the territory.
But what you might not know is that your home’s construction features can help you save money on your insurance premiums through something called a Wind Mitigation Inspection.
Let’s break down what that means, what’s included, and how it can benefit you.
What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A Wind Mitigation Inspection evaluates how well your home can stand up to strong winds and storms.
It focuses on the structural features that help reduce wind damage, such as:
Roof shape and covering (like hip vs. gable, shingle type, and age)
Roof deck attachment (how securely your roof sheathing is fastened)
Roof-to-wall connections (clips, straps, or wraps that hold the roof to the structure)
Doors and windows (impact-rated glass or storm shutters)
Garage doors (reinforced or wind-rated models)
Each of these features can qualify you for insurance credits—because the stronger and more wind-resistant your home is, the lower your risk (and often, the lower your premium).
Why Insurance Companies Offer Discounts
Insurance companies reward homes that are built, or upgraded, to better withstand hurricane-force winds.
These wind-resistant features reduce the likelihood of major damage during storms, which in turn saves insurers money in potential claims.
So, if your home includes these features, your insurance company may offer discounts or credits that can significantly reduce your premium.
In many cases, homeowners save anywhere from hundreds to potentially thousands of dollars per year, just by having a current Wind Mitigation report on file.
Who Needs a Wind Mitigation Inspection
Almost every Florida homeowner can benefit from one, but it’s especially important if:
Your home is older (built before 2002 building code updates)
You’ve made roof or window upgrades recently
You’re renewing or switching insurance companies
You’re purchasing a home and want to understand potential savings
Even if your home was built after the newer codes went into effect, it’s still worth confirming your features, because the inspection can officially document those credits for your insurer.
What Happens During the Inspection
We will take a close look at your roof, attic, doors, and windows to identify which wind-resistant features your home has.
They’ll document everything with photos and fill out the Florida OIR-B1-1802 form, the standardized report required by all insurance companies.
After the inspection, you’ll receive a copy of the report to share with your insurance agent.
Once submitted, your agent can apply any eligible discounts directly to your policy.
When to Schedule One
A Wind Mitigation report is typically valid for five years, but it’s smart to schedule a new inspection if:
You’ve had a new roof installed
You’ve added impact windows or storm shutters
Your previous inspection is outdated or your carrier requests a new one
You’re shopping for better coverage or switching companies
Having an updated inspection on hand keeps you prepared, and can help you capture every discount available.
Final Thoughts
A Wind Mitigation Inspection is one of the simplest ways to save money on your insurance while making sure your home is ready for Florida’s storm season.
It’s a small, one-time investment that can pay for itself in savings year after year.
If you’re in Pensacola or the surrounding Gulf Coast area, Taylor-Made Home Inspections offers quick, detailed Wind Mitigation Inspections, complete with same-day reports to help you get your discounts fast.
