What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection & Why is it Important?
You might have heard that you can save money on your home insurance with a wind mitigation inspection. But what is it, and what does the inspector look for?
We take a look at some of the important factors to reduce your home’s risk of damage in strong winds and reduce your insurance costs as well.
What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
Sometimes known as a windstorm mitigation inspection, this type of home inspection checks the wind resistance of your home. The inspector will look at things like how well your roof is connected and sealed against the elements. If you have window and door coverings, these will be checked by the certified inspector.
Can a Wind Mitigation Inspection Save You Money?
If the inspector finds that the features of your home reduce the likelihood of damage from storms and hurricane winds, you could lower the costs of insuring your property. With less risk to the insurance company, your premiums will be lower.
The money you can save through wind mitigation will depend on your location and the features you have. If you are in an area with a greater risk of hurricanes, there will be more chance of making a large saving if your home is better prepared for high winds. You stand to save $1,000 or more on insurance premiums if this applies to you.
You might have heard you can save money on your home insurance with a wind mitigation inspection, but what is a wind mitigation inspection and how much will you save? #windmitigationItems Checked by the Inspector
The inspector will look at certain areas and features of your home and follow a wind mitigation inspection checklist. You can typically expect the following factors to form a major part of the assessment.
Built to code: Is your home built following the construction rules in your state? The age of the property can sometimes factor into this, with newer constructions likely to be better protected against wind damage.
Roof shape: Certain roof designs stand up to high winds better than others. A hip or hipped roof, one in which all sides slope gently down towards the ground, are more likely to withstand hurricane winds. The hip roof gives you a better likelihood of reducing your premium over flat or other types of roof.
If your home is constructed with two roof types, and if the majority is hip, you might still benefit from a larger discount. Carports and porches aren’t normally considered as important in this assessment.
Roof covering types: The material used to cover the roof of your house is also important to the inspector. Do you have tiles on your roof, whether clay or concrete? Perhaps the roof is covered in shingle, asphalt, or has a membrane covering. The inspector will look at the material used and check that it complies with building codes and how much wind mitigation it offers.
Roof and wall connection: The method of attaching the roof to the walls is considered by the inspector. They will typically look at the weakest method used by the contractor, and assess it on that basis.
They will need access to the attic to check the attachment type, and it could be one of the following; double wrap, single wrap, anchor bolt, clips, and toenails. Generally, double wraps are the strongest and toenails the weakest.
Roof and rafter attachment: How well connected the roof deck is to the rafters plays a role in wind protection. The length of the nails used and the spacing can be a factor that reduces the risk of the roof lifting. Typically, they look for spacing of 6 inches or less, and the use of 8d nails, which are 2 inches long.
Protective layer: If your roof has a secondary layer of protection, this will help reduce your premium. This will prevent water from getting into your home should the outer layer of the roof be partially lost or damaged.
Impact resistance: If you have shatterproof windows, hurricane-rated doors, or shutters, your home will be better protected from flying debris.
How to Improve Your Wind Mitigation Discount
Many of the things the inspector will check are difficult to change, but there are some things you can do before an inspection.
If you want to improve your rating, get hurricane shutters fitted for all your windows and doors. They should be able to withstand being hit by fairly heavy debris, perhaps up to 9 pounds for windows. Check with a local installer for their recommendation.
If you are planning on replacing the roof anyway, it will pay you to make sure it has stronger attachments and a secondary protective layer. Whatever you do, make sure to choose contractors that are licensed so that you qualify for mitigation credits.
The inspector will give recommendations to improve your home’s mitigation, and their report will typically be valid for 5 years. This report can be forwarded to your insurance provider for a reduction in your premiums.
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You might have heard you can save money on your home insurance with a wind mitigation inspection, but what is a wind mitigation inspection and how much will you save? #windmitigationAbout the Author
Top Wellington Realtor, Michelle Gibson, wrote: “What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection & Why is it Important?”
Michelle has been specializing in residential real estate since 2001 throughout Wellington Florida and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent she will guide you through the entire real estate transaction. If you’re ready to put Michelle’s knowledge and expertise to work for you call or e-mail her today.
Areas of service include Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, and more.