How Does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Work?

Homeowners in Hollywood, Florida, understand the importance of preparing their properties for hurricane season. One of the most valuable tools for protecting your home and saving money on insurance is a wind mitigation inspection. But how does this process work, and what can you expect during an inspection? In this article, we’ll break down the steps involved, what inspectors evaluate, and why this inspection is essential for homeowners in Florida.

What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

A wind mitigation inspection is a process performed by a licensed inspector to evaluate your home’s ability to withstand strong winds and hurricanes. The inspection focuses on specific features of your property that can reduce wind damage, such as the roof, windows, doors, and structural connections.

The goal is twofold:

1. Protect Your Home – Identify wind-resistant features that minimize the risk of storm damage.
2. Lower Insurance Costs – Provide documentation to your insurance company to qualify for premium discounts.

How Does the Wind Mitigation Inspection Process Work?

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the inspection works:

1. Scheduling the Inspection

The first step is to contact a licensed home inspector who specializes in wind mitigation. When scheduling the inspection, ensure the inspector is familiar with Florida’s building codes and insurance requirements.

2. Preparing Your Home

Before the inspection, make sure your home is accessible for the inspector. This may include clearing spaces like your attic, roof, and garage to allow for thorough evaluation.

3. On-Site Evaluation

During the inspection, the inspector will examine the following key components of your home:

• Roof Shape
  Hip roofs are more wind-resistant compared to gable or flat roofs. The inspector will note the shape and structure.

• Roof Covering
  The inspector checks the roof covering (shingles, tiles, or metal) to ensure it meets the Florida Building Code’s wind resistance standards.

• Roof Decking Attachment
  Inspectors evaluate how the roof decking is attached to the trusses. Nails, screws, or other fasteners are assessed for strength and proper spacing.

• Roof-to-Wall Connections
  Features like hurricane straps or clips are checked to see if they provide a secure connection between the roof and the walls of the home.

• Secondary Water Resistance
  The inspector looks for a waterproof barrier under the roof covering to prevent water intrusion during storms.

• Windows and Doors
  Impact-resistant windows and doors or hurricane shutters are evaluated for their ability to withstand flying debris.

• Garage Doors
  The structural integrity of garage doors is assessed, as they are a common weak point during high winds.

4. Generating the Report

After the inspection, the inspector will generate a detailed wind mitigation report. This report includes the findings of the inspection, with photographic evidence and documentation of all wind-resistant features.

5. Submitting the Report to Your Insurance Provider

You can submit the wind mitigation report to your insurance company to qualify for discounts or credits. Depending on your home’s features, you may see significant savings on your premiums.

How Long Does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Take?

A typical wind mitigation inspection takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and complexity of your home. The inspection is non-invasive, meaning the inspector won’t damage your property during the process.

How Much Does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Cost?

The cost of a wind mitigation inspection ranges from $75 to $150, depending on your location and the inspector’s expertise. Given the potential insurance savings, this inspection is a cost-effective investment for homeowners in Hollywood, FL.

What Are the Benefits of a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

1. Lower Insurance Premiums

Florida law requires insurance companies to offer discounts to homeowners with wind-resistant features. A wind mitigation report can help you save up to 88% on your premiums.

2. Enhanced Home Protection

The inspection identifies areas where your home can be improved to better withstand hurricanes and tropical storms.

3. Compliance with Building Codes

Ensure your home meets Florida’s strict building codes, which are designed to protect properties in hurricane-prone areas.

4. Peace of Mind

Knowing your home is prepared for severe weather gives you confidence and reduces stress during hurricane season.

What Happens If Your Home Doesn’t Pass the Inspection?

If your home lacks certain wind-resistant features, the inspector will outline improvements you can make. Common upgrades include:

• Installing hurricane straps or clips
• Adding secondary water barriers
• Replacing old windows and doors with impact-resistant models
• Upgrading to a stronger roof covering

Making these improvements not only enhances your home’s safety but also increases its value.

Who Needs a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

Wind mitigation inspections are essential for:

• Homeowners looking to save on insurance premiums
• Buyers purchasing a home in Hollywood, FL, or surrounding areas
• Homeowners making upgrades to wind-resistant features

Why Choose Global Home Inspectors for Your Wind Mitigation Inspection?

At Global Home Inspectors, we specialize in providing thorough and accurate wind mitigation inspections for homeowners in Hollywood, Florida. Our licensed professionals understand the unique challenges of living in a hurricane-prone region and are dedicated to helping you protect your home and save money.

Schedule Your Wind Mitigation Inspection Today

Don’t wait until hurricane season to prepare your home. Schedule a wind mitigation inspection with Global Home Inspectors today and ensure your property is ready to withstand Florida’s toughest storms. Contact us now to start saving on your insurance premiums while protecting your investment.