The Florida Discount
Most Homeowners Miss.
A wind-mitigation inspection can lower your homeowners premium, sometimes by a lot. Here is what inspectors look for, what it costs, and how to make sure the credits actually land on your policy.
The Short Version
- Florida insurers are required to offer premium discounts for features that reduce wind damage.
- A wind-mitigation inspection documents those features on the state’s OIR-B1-1802 form.
- Inspections often cost around $75 to $150 and are generally accepted for up to five years.
- Roof shape, roof-to-wall connections, roof deck attachment and opening protection matter most.
- Send the report to your agent. Credits do not apply themselves.
One of the easiest ways to lower homeowners insurance in Florida is also one of the most overlooked. Every week we review policies in Panama City, Lynn Haven and along the Forgotten Coast where the home clearly qualifies for wind-mitigation credits, and nobody ever sent the paperwork in.
What is a wind-mitigation inspection?
It is a short inspection by a licensed professional, usually a home inspector, contractor or engineer, that documents how well your home resists wind. The results go on Florida’s Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form, OIR-B1-1802. Florida law requires insurance companies to offer discounts for qualifying features, so that form can directly reduce the wind portion of your premium.
What the inspector looks at
- Roof covering: whether the roof meets Florida Building Code and when it was installed.
- Roof deck attachment: how the plywood is nailed to the trusses.
- Roof-to-wall attachment: toe nails, clips, single wraps or double wraps. Stronger connections earn bigger credits.
- Roof geometry: hip roofs usually rate better than gable roofs.
- Secondary water resistance: a sealed roof deck that keeps water out if shingles blow off.
- Opening protection: impact windows, doors and shutters, including the garage door.
What does it cost?
Prices vary, but inspections commonly run around $75 to $150. Reports are generally accepted for up to five years, so one inspection can pay for itself many times over. Check whether the state’s My Safe Florida Home program is currently accepting applications, since it has offered free inspections and grants at times.
Wind mitigation vs. 4-point inspections
They are different. A 4-point inspection looks at the roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC on older homes, and some carriers require it before they will write the policy. A wind-mitigation inspection earns discounts. Many inspectors do both in one visit, which is worth asking about.
How to make sure the credits stick
- Schedule the inspection with a qualified inspector.
- Send the completed OIR-B1-1802 form to your agent.
- Ask your agent to confirm the credits on your declarations page.
- Keep a copy. You may need it when you shop or switch carriers.
Already have a report? Send it to us and we will compare it against your current policy and shop home insurance with 20+ carriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can a wind-mitigation inspection save?
It depends on your home and carrier, but documented features like hip roofs, roof-to-wall clips and impact openings can noticeably lower the wind portion of your premium.
How long is a wind-mitigation report good for?
Reports are generally accepted for up to five years, as long as nothing material about the home has changed.
Is a 4-point inspection the same thing?
No. A 4-point inspection reviews the roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC on older homes. A wind-mitigation inspection documents features that earn discounts.
Who can do a wind-mitigation inspection?
Licensed professionals such as home inspectors, certain contractors, building code inspectors, architects and engineers can complete the form.
Have a wind-mitigation report?
Send it our way. We will make sure every credit is applied and compare 20+ carriers for your home.
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Coverage is subject to policy terms, underwriting and availability. Rules and programs can change, so confirm details with your agent.
