The short answer
A wind mitigation inspection documents features that help your home stand up to hurricane winds, like how the roof is attached and whether you have storm shutters. In Florida it uses the state form OIR-B1-1802, and it can earn you insurance discounts. It often costs roughly $75 to $200 and can stay valid for up to 5 years if you don’t make major changes to the home.
Is this you?
- You live in Florida or another hurricane-prone state.
- You just replaced your roof or added shutters or impact windows.
- Your premium went up and you want to know if you are missing discounts.
What the inspector documents
- Roof covering: the type of roof and whether it meets building code, often shown by the permit date
- Roof deck attachment: how the roof sheathing is nailed down
- Roof-to-wall connection: clips, straps, or wraps that hold the roof to the walls
- Roof shape: hip roofs often earn more credit than gable roofs
- Secondary water resistance: a barrier under the roof covering that helps keep water out if shingles blow off
- Opening protection: shutters or impact-rated windows and doors
How much can it save?
It depends on your home and your insurer. In Florida, insurers must post the hurricane mitigation discounts they offer on their websites. Ask your agent to compare your premium with and without the report before you book.
When to get one
- Right after a roof replacement
- When you buy a home
- Before your renewal, if you have never had one
- After adding shutters or impact windows
Help paying for upgrades in Florida
The My Safe Florida Home program, run by the Florida Department of Financial Services, has offered inspections and grants for hurricane upgrades. Funding opens and closes, so check whether it is currently accepting applications.
Good to know
If you are replacing your roof anyway, ask the roofer to add features that earn wind credits, then get a new wind mitigation inspection when the job is done.
Want a local roofer to take a look?
A local roofer can check your roof and tell you whether a repair, a roof certification, or a replacement makes sense. Free, with no obligation.
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Common questions
Is a wind mitigation inspection required?
Usually not, but without one you may be missing discounts you qualify for.
Is it the same as a 4-point inspection?
No. A 4-point inspection checks the condition of four home systems. A wind mitigation inspection documents wind-resistant features for discounts. Many inspectors can do both in one visit.
What if I am not in Florida?
Some other coastal states have their own forms or discount programs. Ask your agent what your state offers.