What a wind mitigation inspection does
A wind mitigation inspection examines and documents specific construction features relevant to wind resistance. The insurer uses the completed documentation to evaluate applicable credits under its approved rules. The inspection is different from a general assessment of every system in the home.
In Hollywood and surrounding South Florida communities, roof improvements, opening protection, and accessible connection details are important questions for buyers and owners. A newer-looking roof or window is not enough by itself to establish a qualifying feature. The applicable form and supporting evidence govern how an item is documented.
Ask your insurance agent which report is accepted, its age requirements, and the documentation needed for your policy. Confirm the current applicable OIR form and inspector qualifications before the appointment.
Features and evidence that may be reviewed
- Roof covering. Available permit, installation, and product information, together with observed conditions relevant to the form.
- Roof-deck attachment. Accessible evidence of how the roof deck is fastened.
- Roof-to-wall connections. Visible connection details where access allows evaluation.
- Roof geometry. Roof shape as defined by the applicable inspection form.
- Secondary water resistance. Documentation or observations that support this feature under the form’s criteria.
- Opening protection. Evidence for protected windows, doors, garage doors, and other applicable openings.
- Building information. Relevant construction and code-related documentation required by the report.
Some features are concealed or cannot be established from a casual visual observation. The report must reflect evidence actually available. An unknown detail should not be treated as verified simply because a similar nearby home has it.
Gather the paperwork before the visit
Look for roof permits, invoices, product approvals, window and door documentation, shutter information, and previous mitigation reports. Tell us about a reroof, replacement openings, structural improvements, or other work since the last report.
Arrange access to attic openings and other agreed observation areas. Keep shutter components, labels, and available installation documentation accessible. A product’s marketing name alone may not establish its rating or suitability for the opening.
Do not enter an unsafe attic, climb a roof, remove finishes, or disturb equipment to obtain evidence. Discuss access limitations and the safe available inspection methods when booking.
How insurance credits are determined
Whether a feature qualifies for a credit—and the amount—depends on the insurer, policy, rating rules, and accepted evidence. An inspection documents features; it does not set premiums. Savings should be confirmed with your insurance agent using the completed report.
Before paying for an improvement solely to reduce premiums, ask your agent how that improvement would be treated and consult a qualified contractor about its scope. Avoid relying on a promised percentage from a general website example.
Ask the insurer whether a report remains acceptable after alterations or changes to the property. A stated report-age limit is not a guarantee that it remains accurate after work is performed.
Choose the reports your transaction needs
A four-point inspection addresses four major systems for underwriting. A wind mitigation inspection addresses particular wind-resistant features. A full home inspection has a broader property-condition purpose. A condo may involve association-controlled components or building-level documentation that changes what is available for a unit owner.
Send your property address, insurance requirements, and deadline when you request an appointment. We can discuss the requested reports and access requirements before a visit is arranged. Review general information from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation and confirm policy-specific questions directly with your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
Are impact windows enough to qualify for a discount?
Not necessarily. The applicable rating requirements, documentation, and protection of other relevant openings matter. Your inspector documents supported features; your insurer determines the credit.
Does a wind mitigation inspection certify hurricane safety?
No. It records specified construction features. It does not guarantee performance in a storm or replace engineering evaluation, maintenance, or emergency planning.
Can I reuse an old report after replacing the roof?
Ask your agent. Changes may affect the accuracy or acceptability of earlier documentation, even if the report has not reached an insurer’s age limit.