A wind mitigation inspection assesses features of a home—such as roof-to-wall attachments, secondary water barriers, and impact-resistant windows—that help a structure resist wind damage. In Florida, this inspection is the primary way to qualify for discounts on the windstorm portion of a property insurance policy.
How It Applies to Florida Landlords
Because hurricane wind coverage is a major expense in Florida, obtaining a wind mitigation inspection is a financially prudent move for any landlord. If the report shows that the property meets specific safety standards, the insurance carrier must apply premium credits. Even if the property is older, certain upgrades (like hurricane shutters or reinforced garage doors) identified in an inspection can pay for themselves through long-term insurance savings.
Key Takeaways
- Wind mitigation inspections can lead to significant insurance premium discounts.
- Only licensed inspectors, contractors, or architects can perform these inspections.
- The report is typically valid for five years unless structural changes are made.
- Always share the report with your insurance agent to ensure all eligible credits are applied.