The Best Wind Mitigation Inspection Inspectors in Florida! Serving Tampa, Apollo Beach, Sarasota, St Petersburg and Anywhere in Florida! Ask about our Military, Teacher and 1st Responder Discounts.
Trusted & Experienced
Providing trusted Florida wind mitigation inspection
At Colvin Inspections, we are Florida state certified and licensed to provide Wind Mitigation Inspections. A wind mitigation is a 7-question inspection for specific hurricane-resistant home features. Each question has potential to earn discount credit for your home insurance. Reports are valid for 5 years if no changes are made. Recommend after a roof, upgrading windows to impact windows, replacing exterior doors with impact doors and installing impact garage door.
What is a Florida Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation inspection is a specialized evaluation that determines how a home is designed and built to withstand strong winds and hurricane conditions common to the region. Unlike a standard home inspection, it focuses on identifying construction features that reduce the risk of wind damage and improve structural resilience which then, enhances their safety. Wind Mitigation Inspections are often required by insurance providers to verify a property’s wind-resistant qualities and eligibility for potential discounts. This type of inspection provides homeowners with valuable documentation, helps lower insurance costs, and offers peace of mind knowing their home is better prepared for severe Florida weather. The inspection results are documented on a standardized form (OIR-B1-1802).
What does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Cover?
A wind mitigation inspection in Tampa evaluates how well a home can withstand hurricane-force winds and severe weather common to the region. During a Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors examine key structural features such as roof shape, covering materials, roof-to-wall attachments, roof deck attachment, and the presence of secondary water resistance. They also assess opening protection, including impact-resistant windows, doors, and shutters. These detailed findings help insurance companies determine potential discounts while giving homeowners confidence in their property’s storm readiness. By completing a Florida Wind Mitigation Inspection, property owners can both improve safety and potentially reduce their insurance premiums.
Building Age
In Florida, building age affects eligibility for wind mitigation credits and insurance discounts. During a Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors review construction dates and code compliance(FBC 2001 or later)OR for homes located in the HVHZ (Miami-Dade or Broward counties), South Florida Building Code (SFBC-94). Newer homes meet stricter standards, while older homes may qualify with upgrades like newer roofs. Proper documentation can significantly improve inspection results and savings.
Roof Age
In Florida, roof age is a key factor in determining wind resistance and insurance eligibility. During a Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors verify the roof’s installation date and condition. Newer roofs typically meet updated building codes, while older roofs may still qualify if properly maintained or replaced, helping homeowners secure insurance discounts.
EX: Was the roof permit application submitted on or after March 1, 2002. In HVHZ zones, is the permit after 9/1/1994 or structure was built in 1997 or later?
Roof Deck Attachment
In Florida, roof deck attachment is a critical factor in wind resistance and insurance eligibility. During a Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors evaluate how securely the roof decking is fastened to the structure, including nail size (8d nails), spacing (every 6 in), and fastening patterns. Stronger attachments provide better protection against uplift in high winds and can significantly increase potential insurance discounts. What kind do you have? OSB/Plywood, Timber or Reinforced Concrete Deck
Roof to Wall Attachment
In Florida, roof-to-wall attachments are a key component of a home’s wind resistance and insurance eligibility. During a Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors assess how the roof structure is connected to the walls, identifying features like clips, straps, or toe nails. Stronger connections improve structural integrity during high winds and can increase potential insurance discounts.
Ex: How is the roof attached to the exterior walls? Clips, Wraps, and Structural attachments qualify for discounts.
Roof Geometry
In Florida, roof shape is important for how well a home can handle strong winds. During a Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors look at the shape of the roof, such as hip or gable. Hip roofs are stronger and better at handling wind, which can help homeowners get insurance discounts.
Underlayment
In Florida, underlayment is a layer under the roof that helps keep water out if shingles are damaged. During Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors check if this layer is present and properly installed. A strong underlayment adds extra protection during storms and may help homeowners qualify for insurance discounts. Does the roof have a secondary water resistance, also known as, SWR or peel and stick, or ice and water shield?
Opening Protection
In Florida, opening protection helps keep wind and rain out of a home during a storm. During Wind Mitigation Inspection, inspectors check windows, doors, and garage doors for impact resistance or shutters. Strong protection can prevent damage inside the home and may help homeowners qualify for insurance discounts. Does the home have exterior opening impact protection for all glazed openings? This includes non-glazed entry and garage door openings.
How Long are Florida Wind Mitigation Inspection Good For?
In Florida, wind mitigation inspections are generally valid for up to five years, although some insurance companies may request updates sooner depending on policy changes or property conditions. If significant changes or upgrades are made to the property’s structure or roofing, a new inspection may be necessary to update the report. Wind Mitigation Inspection provide documentation that insurers use to determine eligibility for windstorm mitigation credits and discounts. However, homeowners are encouraged to update inspections after improvements to maximize savings. Staying current with a Wind Mitigation ensures continued insurance benefits and accurate representation of a home’s wind-resistant features.
Why Should I Consider a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
Obtaining wind mitigation inspection can lower your homeowners insurance premium by showcasing improvements like roof replacement, window replacement, and upgraded exterior doors that enhance your property’s wind resistance. It also identifies necessary updates, such as garage door replacements and impact protection installations, ensuring your home is well-prepared for severe weather. Ultimately, a wind mitigation provides peace of mind, knowing your property is safeguarded against high winds and potential damage. Insurance companies might also ask for a 4 Point inspection in order to provide coverage.
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