Therefore, it only makes sense that homes built to fare better in high winds would be eligible for homeowners insurance discounts. Read on to find out how this all works!
How Wind Mitigation Can Save You Money!
In Florida, you can gain wind mitigation credits that translate into savings on your homeowners insurance premiums by having a wind mitigation inspection done by a professional inspector. You also, of course, need to pass the inspection and either have or add some special wind mitigation features to your home.
You will NOT be required by law, by a mortgage company, or by your homeowners insurance provider to get a wind mitigation inspection, but it may well be to your advantage to do so anyway.
For homes built after 2002, you will certainly gain a substantial amount of mitigation credits following the inspection. For those built between 1974 and 2002, you will likely gain at least some credits. And even for homes older than that, you will discover upgrades you can make that will qualify you for credits so you can save.
Typically, a homeowner will recoup the cost of the wind mitigation inspection in one year or less by saving on their home insurance. And savings will then continue every year thereafter.
Which Features Can Get You Wind Mitigation Credits?
It’s important to understand what exactly could qualify you for credits even before the wind mitigation inspection is ordered so you know what you are aiming at.
Here are some ways to qualify for credits:
- Having a roof in good condition that meets or exceeds standards set by Florida’s state building code.
- The shape and design of the roof should help it stand up against strong winds no less than the roofing materials.
- Roof trusses/rafters must be properly attached to the walls of the building and to the roof decking.
- Roof underlayments such as Self-adhering polymer modified-bitumen roofing underlayment applied directly to the sheathing also called peel and stick enhance your roof’s water resistance.
- Windows, skylights, and doors with glass sections need to use impact-resistant glass and be strong enough structurally as well. Adding hurricane shutters can also earn your some credits for good “opening protection.”
- Hurricane clips or wraps that help hold the roof to the building in a hurricane count.
- All features and upgrades must be inspected and fully documented by a professional inspector. The report must then be presented to your homeowners insurance company.
As you can see, a one-time wind mitigation inspection done by an experienced professional can save you money on insurance premiums for as long as you live in your home. That makes it well worthwhile to invest in this type of home inspection.
To learn more about earning wind mitigation credits, to order an inspection, or to get a free, no-obligation quote, contact Super Inspection Pros in Central Florida today!
