If you’re a Florida homeowner, chances are you’ve heard the term “wind mitigation” thrown around—especially when dealing with home insurance. But what is it, and why does it matter?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation inspection looks at how well your home is built to withstand strong winds and hurricanes. In Florida, insurance companies use this inspection to decide how much of a discount they can give you on your premium.
Yes, that’s right—a wind mitigation can save you money.
The inspection focuses on specific features of your home’s structure and roof system, such as:
- Roof Covering: What type of material is your roof made of, and does it meet the Florida Building Code?
- Roof Deck Attachment: How is the plywood decking attached to your trusses? Nails or staples? How long are the nails? This matters more than you might think.
- Roof-to-Wall Connection: Are your trusses strapped down with clips, wraps, or toenails? This part has a major impact on your wind resistance score.
- Roof Geometry: Is your roof shape hip, gable, or flat? Hip roofs tend to perform better in high winds.
- Secondary Water Resistance (SWR): Do you have an additional barrier under your roof covering to protect against water intrusion if shingles blow off?
- Opening Protection: Are your windows and doors protected with rated shutters or impact glass?
Every “Yes” answer can earn you credits toward your insurance discount.
How to Pass a Wind Mitigation Inspection (or Maximize Your Credits)
There’s technically no pass or fail with a wind mitigation—it’s more about how many credits you qualify for. But here are a few tips to make sure your home gets all the points it deserves:
1. Have Documentation Ready
If your roof was replaced recently, have the permit or documentation available. The inspection includes checking if your roof covering meets Florida Building Code, and documentation helps confirm that.
The same goes for any impact-rated windows or shutters. If you have them, be ready to show purchase receipts, product approval stickers, or installation paperwork.
2. Clear Access to the Attic
We’ll need to get into your attic to inspect the roof deck attachment and how your trusses are strapped to the walls. Make sure attic access is clear, and if it’s in a closet or garage, move personal items out of the way ahead of time.
3. Check for Secondary Water Resistance
If your roofer installed a peel-and-stick underlayment or another SWR system, have the paperwork. Sometimes this is difficult to record, so having proof can earn you a valuable credit.
Why Does It Matter?
Wind mitigation inspections can lead to substantial savings on your homeowners insurance—especially in Indian River County where wind risk is a major factor.
Even if you don’t currently qualify for all available credits, the report can help you understand where to upgrade for future savings.
Final Thoughts
If you live in Vero Beach, Sebastian, Fellsmere, or anywhere in Indian River County, a wind mitigation inspection isn’t just a good idea—it’s practically essential.
At SW Inspections, we specialize in these inspections and know exactly what your insurance company is looking for. We’ll give you a clear, detailed report the same day, and we’re happy to walk you through the findings.
Ready to book your wind mitigation inspection?
We make it easy. Schedule online or give us a call today.