Florida insurers are required to offer discounts for wind resistant features. A wind mitigation report is how you prove your home has them.
Key takeaways
- Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts for features that reduce wind damage.
- The inspection is documented on the Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form, OIR-B1-1802.
- Roof shape, roof deck attachment, roof to wall connections and opening protection carry the biggest credits.
- A completed form is generally valid for up to five years if nothing on the home changes.
Homeowners insurance is one of the biggest costs of owning a home in Florida. A wind mitigation inspection is one of the simplest ways to make sure you are getting every discount you are entitled to.
Why discounts exist
Florida law requires insurance companies to offer premium discounts for construction features that reduce damage from hurricanes and high winds. The insurer needs proof that your home has those features, and that proof is the wind mitigation report.
The form
Results are recorded on the state's Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form, known as OIR-B1-1802. It must be completed by a qualified inspector, such as a licensed home inspector, and it includes photos documenting each feature.
What the inspector documents
- Building code: whether the home was built to the 2001 Florida Building Code or later.
- Roof covering: the type of covering and whether it meets the required product approval and permit date.
- Roof deck attachment: how the roof sheathing is fastened, including nail size and spacing.
- Roof to wall attachment: whether the roof is held down with toe nails, clips, single wraps or double wraps.
- Roof geometry: hip roofs generally perform better in wind than gable roofs and often earn more credit.
- Secondary water resistance: an extra barrier under the roof covering that limits water intrusion if shingles are lost.
- Opening protection: shutters and impact rated windows, doors and garage doors that protect every opening.
Which homes benefit most
Newer homes built to modern code, homes with a hip roof, and homes with clips or straps and full opening protection tend to see the largest credits. Older homes can still benefit, especially after a roof replacement or window upgrade. Even when the savings are modest, the report often pays for itself within the first year.
How long it lasts
A completed OIR-B1-1802 form is generally valid for up to five years, as long as nothing covered by the form changes. If you replace your roof or add shutters or impact windows, schedule a new inspection so your discounts reflect the upgrade.
Tips before your inspection
Have permit information handy for your roof and any window or door replacements, and make sure the attic access is clear. Documentation for impact products, such as labels or product approval numbers, helps the inspector give you credit for them.
Frequently asked questions
Who can complete a wind mitigation form in Florida?
Qualified inspectors listed on the form, which includes licensed home inspectors, as well as certain contractors, engineers and architects.
Will a wind mitigation inspection raise my premium?
The report documents features that earn discounts. If your home has few qualifying features, you may simply not receive additional credits.
Do I need a new report after replacing my roof?
Yes, a new roof can change several items on the form, so an updated inspection is recommended.
