Wind mitigation inspections are used for two purposes. The first is to inform homeowners about the status of their hurricane and storm protection features so they can know what (if anything) could be improved.
The second is to save money on homeowner’s insurance premiums, which quickly pay for the cost of a wind mitigation inspection and continue to put money in your pocket for years to come.
Central Florida Homes Benefit From Wind Mitigation & Protection
The following are Central Florida’s average storm wind speeds according to the Florida Climate Center:
- Tropical depression: 38 mph or less
- Tropical storm: 39 to 73 mph
- Hurricane: 74 mph or greater
And, while hurricane-force winds can be devastating, lower wind speeds can do their fair share of damage, too.
When winds reach the moderate-low risk level, 25 to 30 mpg, old or damaged branches can drop on your roof and accessory buildings. If winds increase to 40 to 55 mph, the National Weather Service issues a “high wind watch.” At that point, you can no longer safely walk outside, and unsecured roof shingles can be blown off the roof.
After wind speeds of 55 mph, homes without proper wind mitigation are at risk for severe damage, leading to expensive repair and replacement costs.
Save on Homeowner’s Insurance Premiums
Florida insurance companies are required by law to offer discounted windstorm insurance rates to Volusia County homeowners purchasing homes with wind-resistant features or when they upgrade an existing home and provide proof of the applicable improvements.
The amount you save with proper wind mitigation features varies from carrier to carrier. However, homeowner’s insurance carriers offer “percentage” discounts to ensure the proper protections are in place.
If your home was built after 2002, when Florida building codes were changed due to Hurricane Andrew, you may already qualify for some credits (assuming you’ve honored essential home and roof maintenance/replacement protocols). However, if you have an older home, a few changes can make a significant impact.
According to recent news reports, homeowners who upgrade their wind mitigation features save anywhere from 30% to 50% on insurance premiums. Even small changes can lead to premium reductions that pay for your inspection and then some.
Prioritize These Wind Mitigation Features
So, what are we looking for when we perform an inspection?
In addition to keeping your family and home structures safe, these are the things we report on during a wind mitigation inspection:
- A Secure Roof
Inspectors are looking for strong, secure roofs (typically ten years old or less) that are adequately maintained. We’ll ensure that the roof has hurricane clips (also called hurricane straps or ties) secured with at least three nails. There should be no evidence of roof damage or missing shingles/ties, etc. - Secondary Water Barriers
Florida winds can drive water sideways, pushing it underneath the first protective barriers. A secondary water barrier is a backup, preventing water intrusion (through the joints in the roof decking) into the home if the primary roof covering and underlayment are blown off during a hurricane. - Hurricane-Grade Windows
Windows are weak points when storm winds blow. Installing hurricane-grade impact windows is a good first step. These windows have a polymer layer that stays intact if the glass shatters. - Storm Shutters
Storm shutters add another layer of protection. When installed and secured properly, the combination of impact windows protected by shutters may keep your home seemingly untouched by wind-borne debris. - Wind-Resistant Exterior Doors & Garage Doors
We also look at the quality of your exterior doors and garage doors. The average garage door is far weaker than it may appear. In extreme storm conditions, garage doors can crumple up like paper and shear right off their frame, leaving your home exposed. Hurricane-rated exterior doors and garage doors are made from stronger materials, have hurricane-grade windows (if applicable), and are installed using stronger, reinforced frames.
We’ll also note any threats in the yard or on your property, such as branches that overhang the roof, poorly pruned/maintained trees, old/dilapidated fencing, or unsecured furniture or furnishings that could become airborne in a storm.
Schedule a Wind Mitigation Inspection With Super Inspection Pros
Learn how whether your home is ready to stand up to this year’s storm season. Schedule a wind mitigation inspection with Super Inspection Pros (SIP). We guarantee a fast turnaround on all of our inspections and final reports.
Our inspectors are always happy to discuss our findings with you so you understand the next steps toward improving your home’s hurricane protection. The digital reports can easily be forwarded to your insurance agent so you can get those insurance discounts as soon as possible.