A wind mitigation report helps identify features that may qualify for insurance discounts, which leads to a common question: how long is a wind mitigation inspection good for? In Florida, a report completed on the state's Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form (OIR-B1-1802) is generally valid for up to five years from the inspection date, as long as nothing material about the home has changed. Our wind mitigation inspection service helps homeowners in Palm Beach County, Broward County and beyond keep their reports current, with reports delivered within 24 hours.
How long is a wind mitigation inspection good for?
The standard rule is up to five years. Insurers accept the OIR-B1-1802 form for that period, and you can usually submit the same report at each renewal until it expires.
That said, there are a few situations where you may need a new report sooner:
- You replaced the roof. A new roof often means new roof deck nailing, a new secondary water barrier and an updated permit date, all of which can improve your credits.
- You added opening protection. Installing impact windows, impact doors or approved hurricane shutters can change your opening protection rating.
- You added roof-to-wall upgrades. Retrofitting hurricane clips or straps can move you into a better category.
- Your insurer asks for one. Some carriers request a fresh inspection when you switch policies or when the old report is missing information.
- The home was sold. A buyer's insurer may accept the seller's report if it is still within five years, but some prefer a new one in the buyer's name.
If any of these apply, a new inspection can document upgrades that may qualify for additional insurance discounts.
What a wind mitigation report documents
The report records the features that help a home resist hurricane winds. These include:
- Building code compliance, based on the permit date and the code in effect at the time
- Roof covering type and whether it meets the required standard
- Roof deck attachment, meaning how the sheathing is nailed or stapled to the trusses
- Roof-to-wall attachment, such as toe nails, clips, single wraps or double wraps
- Roof geometry, such as hip roofs compared with gable roofs
- Secondary water resistance under the roof covering
- Opening protection for windows, doors, skylights and garage doors
For a closer look at each item, read what a wind mitigation inspector looks for.
Wind mitigation credits in Florida
Florida law requires insurers to offer premium discounts or credits for proven wind-resistant features. These wind mitigation credits in Florida apply to the windstorm portion of your premium, which is often a large share of the total cost of coverage in coastal counties.
Each feature on the form maps to a discount category set by your insurer. A home with a hip roof, strong deck nailing, double wraps and full impact protection will generally have more features that may qualify for discounts than a home with a gable roof and toe nails. Homes in Broward County fall within the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone, where stricter building standards apply, and documenting that construction properly matters.
How much does wind mitigation save on insurance?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the honest answer is that it depends. How much wind mitigation saves on insurance varies by:
- Your insurer and its discount tables
- The features your home has, and how well they are documented
- Your location and windstorm exposure
- Your policy's coverage amounts and deductibles
There is no guaranteed saving. Any discount depends on your insurer, your policy and the features your home actually has. The report's job is to identify features that may qualify for insurance discounts, and newer homes or homes with recent roof and window upgrades often have more of them. The best way to know is to ask your agent to rerun your quote with the report attached.
When to renew your wind mitigation report
A simple rule is to book a new inspection when either of these is true:
- Your current report is close to five years old.
- You have made a wind-related upgrade since the last report.
Mark the inspection date on your calendar and schedule the new inspection a month or two before it expires so your renewal is not delayed. If you are planning a roof replacement, wait until the work is finished and permitted, then book your inspection so the report reflects the new roof.
If your home is older, your insurer may also ask for a four-point report. See what a four-point inspection covers in Florida and consider bundling both through our insurance inspection services.
Tips for getting the most from your report
- Keep permits and receipts for roofs, windows, doors and shutters
- Keep product approval labels or paperwork for impact windows and shutters
- Make sure the inspector can access the attic to verify deck nailing and roof-to-wall connections
- Store a digital copy of the report so you can send it to any insurer quickly
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a previous owner's wind mitigation report?
Often yes, if it is still within five years and nothing has changed. Some insurers prefer a new report, so check with your agent first.
Does a new roof require a new wind mitigation inspection?
It is not always required, but it is usually a good idea. A new roof can improve several categories on the form and may increase your discount.
What does a wind mitigation inspection cost?
Pricing depends on the home and whether you bundle it with other inspections. See our pricing page or request a quote.
Get a current wind mitigation report
Affordable Home Inspection, Inc. has been a licensed and insured inspection company since 1987, serving Palm Beach County, Broward County and other Central and South Florida areas. Learn more about our wind mitigation inspection or schedule your inspection and get your report within 24 hours.
