Are you a homeowner in Florida and wondering how often you need a wind mitigation inspection? Here’s the answer – a wind mitigation inspection is good for five years in the Sunshine State. That means, if you’ve recently undergone a wind mitigation inspection, you can take a sigh of relief knowing that you don’t have to worry about the inspection for another five years. But if you’re buying a new house, you might want to get a fresh inspection done to ensure that the property is still in good shape.
As hurricanes and storms are common in Florida, it’s important to keep your home ready for any eventuality. A wind mitigation inspection assesses the ability of a building to resist high wind speeds and prevent damage to the structure. This report outlines the areas of the house that need improvement, and also identifies any features that are already in place to reduce the risk of wind damage. Therefore, a wind mitigation inspection is an important factor that affects the safety and longevity of your home.
It’s also worth noting that Florida Insurance companies often provide discounts to homeowners who have undergone wind mitigation inspections. With a valid report and certification, you can receive considerable savings on your home insurance premiums. Therefore, getting an inspection done is not just important for the safety of your property, but can also help save you money in the long run. So, if you’re a homeowner in Florida and ready to check the box on this essential inspection, reach out to a certified inspector who can provide you with the peace of mind you need to face the next hurricane season.
What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A Wind Mitigation Inspection is a type of home inspection that evaluates the susceptibility of a structure to wind damage. The inspection assesses the wind-resistant features of the building and confirms the safety and durability of the materials that make up its structure.
- Florida homes
- Insurance discounts
- Four-point inspection
The primary objective of a Wind Mitigation Inspection is to assess the vulnerability of a structure to windstorms and its likelihood of experiencing damage in the event of a hurricane.
The Wind Mitigation Inspection involves an inspection of specific features of the structure that are known to be of key importance in withstanding wind forces. The inspector will examine the building’s roof, walls, doors, windows, and other structural components and systems to evaluate their wind-resistant properties. The inspection may include observing the roof-to-wall connections to determine their strength, examining the roof deck attachments, checking the presence of hurricane straps, and reviewing the roof covering materials.
In Florida, a Wind Mitigation Inspection is essential for obtaining insurance coverage for damage caused by windstorms. The state’s insurance companies offer discounts for homes that have wind-resistant features, and the inspection helps to identify those features that qualify for a discount.
Wind Mitigation Features | Typical Discount |
---|---|
Hurricane shutters | Up to 35% |
Roof shape | Up to 30% |
Roof covering | Up to 30% |
Roof-to-wall attachments | Up to 29% |
It is important to note that a Wind Mitigation Inspection is not a substitute for a Four-Point Inspection, which is a different type of inspection that evaluates the condition of a building’s HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. The Wind Mitigation Inspection focuses on the wind-resistance of the structure while the Four-Point Inspection focuses on its systems and components.
So, how long is a Wind Mitigation Inspection good for? The answer varies by insurance company. Some insurers require the inspection to be updated every 5 years; others allow the inspection to remain valid for up to 10 years. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to determine the timeline for updating your Wind Mitigation Inspection.
How is a Wind Mitigation Inspection Conducted?
A wind mitigation inspection evaluates the risk of structural damage to your home during a hurricane or other high-velocity wind events. During this inspection, a certified inspector looks at the different structural elements of the home, such as the roof, walls, windows, and doors, to determine their ability to withstand wind pressure and debris impact. The inspector will then provide a report outlining recommendations to improve the structural integrity of the home.
- Roof inspection: The inspector will evaluate the roof shape, type, age, and condition. Hip roofs are less likely to suffer damage than gable roofs because they have a more aerodynamic shape. Roofs made of concrete, tile, or metal tend to be more wind-resistant than those made of asphalt shingles. The age and condition of the roof also play a role in its ability to withstand windstorms. The inspector will look for missing or damaged roof coverings, loose or missing shingles or tiles, and signs of leaks or water damage.
- Wall inspection: The inspector will examine the home’s exterior walls, including the sheathing and siding, to ensure they are properly anchored and braced. The wall connections to roof trusses or rafters are also inspected to ensure they are secure. The inspector will evaluate the type of construction and the amount and placement of the wall opening protections, such as shutters or impact-resistant windows.
- Window and door inspection: The inspector will examine the windows and doors to determine their wind rating and impact resistance. Impact-resistant windows and doors are designed to withstand high-velocity wind and flying debris during a hurricane or tropical storm. The inspector will also look at the materials used to secure the windows and doors, such as locks, pins, or screws.
Based on their findings, the inspector will then provide recommendations for upgrades or repairs that can improve the home’s structural integrity and reduce the risk of wind damage. These recommendations can range from simple fixes like adding hurricane straps or reinforcing roof-to-wall connections to more complex upgrades like installing impact-resistant windows or upgrading the roof to a more wind-resistant material.
Wind Mitigation Inspection Elements | What is Inspected | Recommendations |
---|---|---|
Roof | Shape, type, age, condition, coverings, fasteners, decking | Re-roof, install sealants, add hurricane straps |
Walls | Type of construction, sheathing, anchoring, bracing, openings | Install shutters, reinforce wall-to-roof connections, replace siding with wind-resistant materials |
Windows and Doors | Ratings, material, protection | Install impact-resistant products, upgrade locks and security features |
It is important to note that wind mitigation inspections are not only beneficial during hurricane season but can also save homeowners money on insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners with wind mitigation features installed on their homes. Typically, wind mitigation inspections are valid for five years, and it is recommended that homeowners have their home inspected regularly to maintain optimal safety and insurance savings.
What does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Look for?
A wind mitigation inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s structural integrity and its ability to withstand strong winds. This inspection looks for any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in your home that might make it more susceptible to damage during a windstorm. A typical wind mitigation inspection will cover several areas of your home, including:
Areas Checked During a Wind Mitigation Inspection
- Roof covering
- Roof deck attachment
- Roof-to-wall connections
- Secondary water resistance barrier
- Window and door opening protections
- Garage doors
These areas are critical to your home’s ability to withstand strong winds. For instance, a well-constructed roof can significantly reduce the impact of high winds on your home. Similarly, windows and doors that are impact-resistant can prevent them from flying debris which is a major cause of storm-related damage.
Roof Covering
Different roof coverings provide varying degrees of protection against wind damage. A wind mitigation inspector will evaluate the type and condition of your roof covering and how it is attached to your home. Common roof coverings include asphalt shingles, tile, metal, and built-up roofs.
Roof Deck Attachment
The roof deck is the layer of boards or plywood that the roofing material is attached to. During a wind mitigation inspection, inspectors check how securely the deck is connected to the roof trusses or rafters. They also look for any signs of damage or decay that may compromise the roof’s stability.
Roof-to-Wall Connections
A weak connection between the roof and the walls of your home can cause the roof to detach during high winds. Wind mitigation inspectors check how securely the roof is attached to the wall framing and whether there are any gaps or missing connectors. They also examine the strength of the straps that connect the roof trusses to the walls.
Secondary Water Resistance Barrier
A secondary water-resistant barrier is a layer of waterproof material underneath the roof covering. This barrier helps prevent water intrusion in the event that the roof covering is damaged or blown off during a storm. Wind mitigation inspections check for the presence of this barrier and evaluate how well it is installed.
Wind MITIGATION FEATURE | MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS |
Roof Covering | Florida Building Code HVHZ approved; or FBC approved for any location tested for wind-driven rain with a design pressure of +/- 0 psf |
Roof Deck Attachment | to wall framing with a minimum 8d nail |
Roof-to-Wall Connection | single wraps with minimum 8d nails (ASD); or clips with minimum 8d nails (ASD); or single wraps in combination with anchors (3-1/2) HDG bolts of #10 HDG scre |
Roof Geometry | Hip roofs qualify for the highest credits, but all styles are eligible |
Secondary Water Resistance | self-adhering modified bitumen; foam adhesive – greater than 7/16-inch thickness; or double coverage of No. 15 asphalt felt; or any product tested and labeled by FBC for use as secondary water barrier |
Opening Protection | Up to 8 foot sustained wind speed protection: hurricane shutters meeting FBC standards; or other approved hurricane protection devices required by FBC for approval or HVHZ approved; or impact-resistant glazing that complies with FBC testing standards; or no protection provided – impact-resistant opening i.e. CGI and PGT Winguard does not require protection for opening. |
Garage Doors | any garage doors that meet the requirements of the FBC or are catch-equipped with approved hardware |
The table above shows the minimum requirements for each of the wind mitigation features measured by inspectors. Homes that meet or exceed these requirements can receive significant savings on homeowner’s insurance premiums.
What are the Benefits of a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A Wind Mitigation Inspection is an examination of the property to determine its vulnerability to high wind and wind-blown rain. The inspection is performed by a licensed and certified inspector who assesses a property’s construction features to estimate how well it can withstand strong winds from a hurricane or other severe weather conditions.
- Reduced Insurance Premiums:
- Increased Resale Value:
- Peace of Mind:
Wind Mitigation Inspections provide significant savings on insurance policies by reducing insurance premiums up to 50% in some cases. By understanding the construction features of the property, the insurance company can estimate the risk associated with providing insurance coverage for that property.
A property with wind mitigation features increases its resale value compared to a similar property without them. Additionally, it helps to demonstrate the property’s safety features, which is a concern for many homebuyers in areas prone to severe weather.
A wind mitigation inspection gives peace of mind to homeowners that they are better equipped to face severe weather conditions. Such inspections identify the weak points in a home’s construction before the storm season, which can allow homeowners to take appropriate action and make repairs or upgrades to prevent or minimize damage from a hurricane.
How Long is a Wind Mitigation Inspection Good For?
The Wind Mitigation Inspection report is typically valid for up to five years. The inspection is a point-in-time assessment of the property, and its conclusions can change if subsequent alterations are made to the property’s construction. However, most insurance companies will not require a reinspection for several years if the property has not undergone any significant structural changes.
Once a homeowner obtains a favorable inspection report, they should contact their insurance agent to get the necessary documentation that confirms their home qualifies for discounts on their insurance policy. It is essential to keep the inspection report handy as proof to present to new insurance providers when looking for new insurance coverage or trying to renew an existing policy.
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Inspection is valid for coverage reduction. | Inspection is still valid for coverage reduction. | No inspection required. | No inspection required. | Inspection renewal is required. |
After five years, wind mitigation re-inspection is necessary to confirm that the home’s features comply with current insurance guidelines. Recertification is necessary to maintain the property’s eligibility for wind mitigation discounts on home insurance policies.
How Often Should Homeowners Get a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
When it comes to wind mitigation inspections, homeowners often wonder how long the inspection is good for and how often they should have a new inspection performed. Here we will dive into the subtopic of how often should homeowners get a wind mitigation inspection.
- Inspections are typically valid for five years
- However, it is recommended to get a new inspection after any major changes to the structure, such as a new roof or windows
- It is also a good idea to get a new inspection if there have been any major changes to building codes that could affect the home’s wind resistance
By getting a new inspection after any significant changes or updates, homeowners can ensure they are getting the most accurate assessment of their home’s wind resistance and potentially save money on their insurance premiums.
It’s important to note that wind mitigation inspections are not required by law, but they can provide significant cost savings on homeowners insurance premiums if the home is found to have strong wind-resistant features. The table below outlines some of the potential savings a homeowner could see based on their wind mitigation inspection results:
Discount Percentage | Wind-Resistant Feature |
---|---|
Opening Protection | Up to 88% |
Roof Shape | Up to 29% |
Roof Deck Attachment | Up to 31% |
Roof-to-Wall Connection | Up to 33% |
Secondary Water Resistance | Up to 8% |
Overall, homeowners should consider getting a wind mitigation inspection every five years or after any significant changes or updates to their home’s structure. By doing so, they can potentially save money on their insurance premiums and ensure they are properly prepared for any potential windstorms.
How Much Does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Cost?
When it comes to protecting your home from the effects of harsh weather conditions, a Wind Mitigation Inspection is a crucial step every homeowner should take. This inspection helps in identifying the various points of weakness in your home’s structure and recommending the necessary changes to strengthen it.
However, as with any other service, there’s always a cost attached to Wind Mitigation Inspections. The cost varies from state to state and even between inspection companies within the same locality. Below are some of the factors that may affect the cost of a Wind Mitigation Inspection:
- The size and age of your home
- The location of your home i.e., the state and the general weather conditions in the area
- The inspection company you choose
On average, a Wind Mitigation Inspection can cost between $75 to $250, depending on your location and the inspection provider you choose. For instance, in Florida, where hurricane risks are high, a Wind Mitigation Inspection can cost up to $250. In contrast, in other areas, the inspection cost could be as low as $75.
It’s important to note that the cost of the inspection should not deter you from carrying out the inspection on your home. Most Wind Mitigation Inspections come with a warranty that guarantees several years of security on your home. Therefore, you’re likely to save more on your home insurance premiums in the long run if you’ve previously had a Wind Mitigation Inspection.
Factors That May Affect The Cost of a Wind Mitigation Inspection
- The size and age of your home
- The location of your home i.e., the state and the general weather conditions in the area
- The inspection company you choose
How To Reduce The Cost of a Wind Mitigation Inspection
Here are some tips to help you cut costs on a Wind Mitigation Inspection:
- Shop around for inspection providers and compare costs. Go for the company that offers the best value for your money.
- Choose a provider within your locality. A local provider will charge less since they won’t have to factor in transportation costs.
- Carry out any necessary repairs before the inspection. By doing this, you’ll reduce the chances of having to repeat the inspection, saving you both time and money.
Sample Wind Mitigation Inspection Prices in Different States
Below is a table showing sample Wind Mitigation Inspection costs in different states:
State | Average Cost of Wind Mitigation Inspection |
---|---|
Florida | $75 to $250 |
Texas | $90 to $200 |
New York | $75 to $200 |
It’s important to note that inspection costs in your area may vary from the figures indicated above. It’s always good to contact your local inspector for more information about the cost of a Wind Mitigation Inspection.
Can Wind Mitigation Inspections Reduce Homeowners’ Insurance Premiums?
Wind mitigation inspections can have a significant impact on homeowners’ insurance premiums. Insurance companies use the data collected during the inspection process to determine the risk of damage to a property during a windstorm or hurricane.
- Typically, homes that have been built or retrofitted to current building code standards are less likely to experience severe damage during high winds. These properties are considered less risky by insurance companies and may receive discounts on their insurance premiums.
- In Florida, for example, homeowners can receive discounts of up to 88% on their wind insurance premiums if their property has undergone wind mitigation inspections and upgrades that meet specific requirements. These discounts are mandated by state law and can result in significant savings for homeowners.
- It’s important to note that the amount of savings a homeowner can realize will depend on several factors, including the location and age of the property, the type of construction, and the specific upgrades made during the inspection process.
It’s also worth noting that wind mitigation inspections are not a one-time event. They are typically valid for a certain period, after which homeowners may need to schedule additional inspections to maintain their insurance discounts.
How Long is a Wind Mitigation Inspection Good For?
Wind mitigation inspections are typically good for five years, but the length of validity may vary based on state and local regulations. In Florida, for example, wind mitigation inspections are valid for up to five years, but homeowners may need to schedule additional inspections if they make significant changes to their property.
If a homeowner has made upgrades to their property since their last inspection, they may benefit from scheduling a new wind mitigation inspection to see if they qualify for additional insurance discounts.
What Does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Entail?
A wind mitigation inspection involves a thorough examination of a property’s building features and systems that can help reduce wind damage. During the inspection, a certified inspector will typically evaluate:
Inspection Category | Description |
---|---|
Roof Covering | The type and condition of the roof covering materials. |
Roof Deck Attachment | The method used to secure the roof deck to the rafters or trusses. |
Roof to Wall Attachment | The type of hardware used to secure the roof framing to the walls. |
Roof Geometry | The shape and slope of the roof. |
Secondary Water Resistance | The presence of a secondary layer of water-resistant barrier on the roof. |
Opening Protection | The type and quality of protection measures for windows, doors, and other openings. |
Wall Construction | The type and quality of the materials used to construct the walls. |
The findings of the inspection are summarized in a report, which is used by the homeowner’s insurance company to calculate potential discounts on insurance premiums.
In conclusion, wind mitigation inspections can be an essential tool for homeowners looking to reduce their insurance premiums and protect their property from wind damage. Homeowners should be sure to schedule regular inspections and explore their options for upgrades and discounts with their insurance provider.
Who Can Conduct a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation inspection is a very specific type of inspection that is conducted to determine the level of protection that a property can offer against strong windstorms, particularly hurricanes. It involves a detailed evaluation of a property’s structural and safety features to determine its wind-resistance and risk level in the event of a hurricane. In this section, we will discuss who is authorized to conduct a wind mitigation inspection.
- Florida-licensed inspectors: A Florida-licensed professional, such as an engineer, architect, or contractor, can conduct a wind mitigation inspection. They are qualified to look for potential hazard factors like insufficient roof decking attachments, detached roof coverings, and inadequate roof-to-wall attachments. A licensed inspector can also perform a full inspection that could assist in getting your homeowner’s insurance decreased.
- Bureau of Standards (BOS) contractor: A contractor authorized by the Florida Department of Business and the Federal Government to conduct wind mitigation inspections under the standards set by the Florida Building Code. This certification necessitates additional training and testing and allows contractors to readily conduct wind mitigation inspections without requiring a licensed inspector.
- Architects: Professional architects in Florida with experience in structural systems and load-bearing structures can perform wind mitigation inspections.
It’s important to keep in mind that unauthorized individuals or companies should not conduct wind mitigation inspection, as the report may be inaccurate or unreliable. Only certified professionals are qualified to carry out wind mitigation assessments since the results of the inspection are used to determine insurance discounts, mitigation credits, and hurricane risk factors.
Moreover, most insurance providers will not issue mitigation credits to property owners who use a self-proclaimed inspector or an inspector who does not meet the demands. Utilizing an unlicensed/ unauthorized contractor for a wind mitigation examination may avoid the property owner from obtaining wind insurance, or even worse, an insurance company may deny a homeowners insurance claim due to hazards that were not noted by the unauthorized inspector.
Professionals Authorized to Perform Wind Mitigation Inspections | License Requirements |
---|---|
Florida licensed general contractors | State licensed general contractors |
Florida licensed home/building inspectors | State licensed home/building inspectors |
Florida licensed engineers | State licensed engineers |
Florida licensed architects | State licensed architects |
Bureau of Standards (BOS) contractor | Florida Department of Business and Financial Regulation authorized contractor complying with Florida Building Code |
In summary, a wind mitigation inspection must be carried out by authorized contractors and inspectors who are aware of the Florida Building Code standards and hurricane risk factors. Authorized contractors and inspectors are licensed by the state of Florida, have additional and required training in conducting wind mitigation inspections, and possess active certification for completing these assessments. A wind mitigation inspection is valid for five years, at which point a new inspection should be required to ensure that the home qualifies for any insurance credits.
What are the Requirements to Conduct a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation inspection is performed to determine the structural strength of a property during strong winds. It helps identify the vulnerability of your home to windstorms and suggests possible improvements to reinforce your home against high winds. Here are the requirements needed to conduct a wind mitigation inspection:
- The inspector should be a licensed building contractor, architect, engineer, or certified building code inspector, with training in wind mitigation inspection techniques.
- The inspector must have valid liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance policies.
- The wind mitigation inspection report must be prepared using the most current wind mitigation inspection forms approved by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR).
- The inspection report must be signed and sealed by the inspector. The seal must contain the inspector’s name, Florida license number, and any other applicable designations.
- The inspection must follow the guidelines established by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) and the Florida Building Code. It should also comply with the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 7 standards and the Florida Statute 627.711(2)(a)3.
- The inspection must include a thorough evaluation of the property’s roof covering, roof deck attachment, roof-to-wall connection, gable end bracing, and the presence of protective opening devices on doors and windows.
- The inspection must cover the entire property, including any attachments such as carports or porches and any attached structures such as garages or sheds.
- The inspection must be performed within the last five years. The wind mitigation inspection report is valid for five years from the date of inspection.
- The inspection report must be submitted to the insurance company for review and consideration for any premium discounts or incentives.
How long is a Wind Mitigation Inspection Report Valid?
A wind mitigation inspection report is valid for five years from the date of inspection. However, if any changes have been made to your home’s roof or structural design, or if a major weather event, such as a hurricane or tropical storm, has occurred, it is recommended to have a new wind mitigation inspection conducted.
What are the Benefits of a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
There are many benefits of having a wind mitigation inspection conducted on your property:
- You can receive insurance premium discounts or incentives if your home complies with wind resistance requirements.
- You can identify possible weaknesses in your home’s structure and take proactive measures to reinforce them to protect against wind damage.
- Your home will be better equipped to withstand powerful storms, reducing the likelihood of damage or destruction.
- You will have peace of mind knowing that your home has been evaluated by a professional and is equipped to handle strong winds and severe weather conditions.
Conclusion
A wind mitigation inspection is an important evaluation of your home’s structural strength during strong winds. It requires the expertise of a licensed professional with training in wind mitigation inspection techniques. The inspection report must follow specific guidelines and be submitted to the insurance company for potential insurance premium discounts or incentives. It is valid for five years from the date of inspection, but it is recommended to have a new inspection conducted after any major weather event or if significant changes have been made to your home’s structure. With the benefits of peace of mind and a safer home, a wind mitigation inspection is a valuable investment for any homeowner.
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) | An office of Florida’s government that supervises the state’s insurance market, regulates insurance companies, and enforces state laws regarding insurance. |
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 7 standards | A set of standards that outlines the minimum design loads for buildings and other structures. |
Protective opening devices | Devices that help protect windows and doors during strong winds or storms, such as shutters or impact-resistant glass. |
What are the Common Findings of Wind Mitigation Inspections?
Wind mitigation inspections are an essential process for homeowners looking to ensure the safety and stability of their homes during extreme weather conditions. These inspections assess the strength and durability of a property’s construction, including its roof, walls, and foundation, to determine its resilience against wind damage.
Through wind mitigation inspections, homeowners can better equip their properties against windstorms and decrease the likelihood of major damages when natural disasters occur. In this section, we will discuss the common findings of wind mitigation inspections and what homeowners can do to address them.
Common Findings of Wind Mitigation Inspections
- Roofing: The roof is one of the most crucial components of a property, and it’s often the most vulnerable to wind damage. During wind mitigation inspections, inspectors will assess the roof’s age, material, and condition. Peeling shingles, missing tiles, and rusted flashing are common issues that inspectors find and can recommend repairs or replacements to ensure the roof’s stability.
- Walls: The walls of a property need to be adequately secured to the foundation to resist strong winds. Inspectors commonly look for cracks, unsecured attachments, and visible deterioration in the exterior walls, including stucco, concrete, or brick to ensure the building’s structural integrity.
- Windows and Doors: Windows and doors provide essential ventilation and light in homes but are weak points during high winds and heavy rainfalls. Inspectors assess if the windows and doors are impact-resistant and check for proper installation to shield the property from wind-blown debris. They may recommend installing shutters or bracing systems in areas that are at high risk of damage.
- Gutters and Downspouts: Gutters and downspouts prevent water accumulation during heavy rainfalls, minimizing damage to the property’s foundation. Inspectors generally check the gutter’s shape and condition to ensure they are free from blockages, damages, and clogs that may hinder their ability to channel water away from the building.
How Long is a Wind Mitigation Inspection Good For?
Wind mitigation inspections offer homeowners peace of mind knowing that their homes are better equipped to weather severe storms and reduce insurance premiums with the implementation of recommended improvements. However, wind mitigation inspection reports are only valid for a limited period, varying from state to state and insurance provider to insurance provider.
Typically, inspection reports are valid for five years, but this can change based on the insurance company’s policy. Homeowners should consult with their insurers to confirm how long their report is valid and whether they need a new inspection report to enjoy the wind protection credits in their policies.
Wrap it Up
So, how long is a wind mitigation inspection good for? The answer is five years. After that, you’ll need to have an updated inspection. While it may seem like a hassle, it’s worth it when you consider the savings on your homeowners’ insurance premiums. Thanks for taking the time to read this article. Come back soon for more helpful tips and information!