Florida Wind Mitigation Inspection - First Florida Agency

Florida homeowners often hear that a wind mitigation inspection may help reduce the cost of homeowners insurance—but many are unsure what the inspection actually includes or how the potential savings are determined.

A wind mitigation inspection is not a general home inspection and is not the same as a four-point inspection. Its primary purpose is to document construction features that may help a home withstand hurricane-force winds and reduce wind-related damage.

These features can include the way the roof is attached to the home, the strength of the roof deck, the shape of the roof, the presence of a sealed roof deck, and whether windows, doors, skylights, and garage doors have verified windborne-debris protection.

Florida requires residential property insurers to offer appropriate discounts, credits, rate differences, or deductible reductions for qualifying hurricane-loss-mitigation features. Homeowners generally need an authorized inspector to document those features before an insurer can apply available credits.

Understanding the inspection before scheduling one can help you prepare the right documentation, avoid missed credits, and make informed decisions about improvements to your home.

What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

A wind mitigation inspection is a specialized evaluation of the construction features that affect how well a home may resist high winds.

The inspector documents the features using Florida’s Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form (OIR-B1-1802), commonly known as:

The 1802 form
A wind mitigation form
A wind mitigation report

The inspection does not predict whether a home will survive a hurricane. It records specific construction characteristics so the insurance company can determine whether the home qualifies for available wind-mitigation discounts.

A wind mitigation inspection generally focuses on the home’s roof system, structural connections, building-code information, roof shape, water-resistance features, and protection of exterior openings.

Important 2026 Update to Florida’s Wind Mitigation Form

Florida’s Office of Insurance Regulation updated the Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form effective April 1, 2026.

The current form is identified as:

OIR-B1-1802, Revised 04/26

Homeowners scheduling an inspection after the effective date should confirm that the inspector is using the current version of the form.

The updated form contains nine primary inspection categories:

Building code
Wind-speed region
Roof slope
Roof covering
Roof-deck attachment
Roof-to-wall attachment
Roof geometry
Sealed roof deck or secondary water resistance
Opening protection

The current form requires supporting photographs or documentation for the inspected attributes. It is valid for up to five years, provided there have been no material changes to the structure and no inaccuracies are discovered.

Why Are Wind Mitigation Inspections Important in Florida?

Florida homes are exposed to hurricanes, tropical storms, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and other damaging wind events.

When high winds act on a home, pressure can build against the walls, roof, doors, and windows. If part of the home’s protective envelope fails, wind and rain may enter and cause significantly more damage.

Wind-resistant construction features are intended to reduce that risk. Examples include:

Stronger roof-deck fasteners
Metal roof-to-wall connectors
Impact-rated windows and doors
Properly rated storm shutters
Reinforced garage doors
A sealed roof deck
Roof coverings approved for high-wind conditions
Roof shapes that perform more favorably in strong winds

Documenting these features may help a homeowner qualify for insurance discounts while also providing useful information about how the home was constructed.

Does Every Wind Mitigation Inspection Produce an Insurance Discount?

No.

A wind mitigation inspection does not guarantee that the homeowner will receive a discount or that the savings will exceed the cost of the inspection.

The amount of any discount depends on factors that may include:

The mitigation features documented
The weakest qualifying feature
The insurance company’s approved rating plan
The portion of the premium associated with wind coverage
The location and construction of the home
The insurer’s underwriting requirements
Credits already included in the policy
Whether the documentation is complete and acceptable

The current OIR-B1-1802 form specifically states that some items listed on the form may not qualify for a discount.

A home may already be receiving certain credits based on its year of construction or information previously provided to the insurer. Before ordering an inspection, ask your insurance agent whether the policy already includes mitigation credits and whether a new report could be beneficial.

What Does a Florida Wind Mitigation Inspector Examine?

A Florida wind mitigation inspection documents construction features such as the roof system, structural connections, and protection of exterior openings.

Florida’s 2026 wind mitigation form evaluates building-code information, wind-speed region, roof characteristics, structural attachments, secondary water resistance, and protection of exterior openings.

The current Florida form evaluates nine major categories.

1. Building Code

The inspector determines which version of the Florida Building Code was in effect when the original building permit was applied for.

The form distinguishes among homes constructed under:

The 2001 or 2004 Florida Building Code
The 2007 or later Florida Building Code
Certain South Florida Building Code requirements in Miami-Dade and Broward counties
Homes for which qualifying code information cannot be established

The home’s year of construction alone may not always be sufficient. Permit application dates can be important, particularly for homes built during a building-code transition period.

Homeowners should provide original permits or other official records when available.

2. Wind-Speed Region

The updated form identifies the home’s region according to its design wind speed.

The available classifications include:

High-Velocity Hurricane Zone
Region 1: 140 mph or greater
Region 2: 130 to 139 mph
Region 3: Less than 130 mph

The home’s location determines this classification. A homeowner does not select it.

The High-Velocity Hurricane Zone applies to Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Other Florida properties are classified according to the applicable design-wind-speed criteria on the current form.

3. Roof Slope

The inspector identifies the predominant slope of the main roof.

The current form separates roofs into two categories:

A slope of 6:12 or greater
A slope of less than 6:12

When a single-family home has multiple roof slopes, the form instructs the inspector to use the slope covering at least two-thirds of the main roof area.

Roof slope is different from roof geometry. Roof slope describes how steep the roof is, while roof geometry describes its overall shape.

4. Roof Covering

The inspector documents the types of roof covering installed on the home.

Examples include:

Asphalt or fiberglass shingles
Concrete or clay tile
Synthetic or composite tile
Metal roofing
Built-up roofing
Membrane roofing
Other roof-covering materials

The inspector may need to document:

The roof permit application date
The Florida or Miami-Dade product-approval number
The year the roof was originally installed or replaced
Whether information verifying compliance is available

A newer roof does not automatically qualify for every available wind credit. The inspector must be able to document that the material and installation meet the applicable requirements.

Roofing permits, contracts, product-approval information, and invoices can be valuable during this part of the inspection.

5. Roof-Deck Attachment

The roof deck is the structural surface beneath the roof covering. It is usually made from plywood, oriented strand board, dimensional lumber, or another approved material.

The roof-deck attachment describes how securely that deck is fastened to the roof trusses or rafters.

The inspector may evaluate:

The type and thickness of roof decking
Nail or fastener size
Fastener spacing
Truss or rafter spacing
Reinforced concrete roof decks
Certain qualifying spray-foam applications
Whether the attic is accessible
The weakest attachment found

Stronger fasteners installed at closer intervals may provide greater resistance to wind uplift.

The current form directs the inspector to report the weakest roof-deck attachment. Therefore, the inspection is not based only on the strongest or most easily visible section of the roof.

6. Roof-to-Wall Attachment

The roof-to-wall attachment describes how the roof structure is connected to the exterior walls.

Common connection types include:

Toenails
Clips
Single wraps
Double wraps
Structural connections
Other or unidentified connections

Metal connectors such as clips and straps can help transfer wind forces from the roof into the walls.

The number and placement of nails matter. A metal connector that appears to be a hurricane strap may not receive the expected classification when it is missing required fasteners or was not installed as designed.

The inspector must report the weakest qualifying connection—not the strongest connection found in the attic.

A home can therefore have straps in most areas but receive a lower classification if weaker connections exist elsewhere.

7. Roof Geometry

Roof geometry refers to the overall shape of the roof.

The most commonly discussed classifications are:

Hip roof
Flat roof for certain qualifying buildings
Other roof

A hip roof slopes downward on all sides. Under the current form, a hip roof must generally have no non-hip roof features exceeding 10% of the total roof-system perimeter.

Gable roofs and roofs with substantial non-hip sections generally fall into the “other roof” category.

Hip roofs may perform more favorably in high winds because their sloped sides can distribute wind forces differently than large vertical gable ends. However, the insurance classification depends on the measurements and definitions contained in the form—not simply on how the roof looks from the street.

Attached porches and carports may be treated differently when calculating the roof perimeter, depending on how they are connected to the main structure.

8. Sealed Roof Deck or Secondary Water Resistance

A sealed roof deck, also known as secondary water resistance or SWR, is intended to reduce water intrusion if the exterior roof covering is damaged or removed during a storm.

Qualifying systems can include certain:

Fully adhered polymer-modified bitumen roofing underlayment
Taped roof-deck seams with felt or synthetic underlayment
Double-layer felt or synthetic underlayment with no tape
Qualifying spray-foam products

The current OIR-B1-1802 form specifically recognizes qualifying fully adhered underlayment, taped seams, double-layer systems, and spray-foam products.

Standard felt or ordinary synthetic underlayment does not automatically qualify as secondary water resistance.

The inspector needs to see acceptable evidence that the qualifying material was installed. This evidence may include:

Roofing contracts
Product specifications
Permits
Invoices
Installation photographs
Manufacturer information
Visible confirmation from the attic when appropriate

A roof replacement is often the most practical time to consider adding a qualifying sealed-deck system because the roof deck is accessible before the new covering is installed.

9. Opening Protection

Opening protection evaluates the home’s windows, exterior doors, skylights, glass blocks, and garage doors.

Qualifying protection may include:

Impact-resistant windows
Impact-rated exterior doors
Impact-rated garage doors
Approved hurricane shutters
Properly rated storm panels
Certain code-compliant plywood or oriented-strand-board systems

Products must generally have documentation showing that they meet applicable wind-pressure, cyclic-pressure, and impact-resistance standards.

A window that merely appears thick or is advertised as “storm resistant” may not be sufficient. The inspector may need a product-approval number, permanent label, permit, invoice, or other acceptable documentation.

The weakest opening can significantly affect the classification. One unprotected or unverifiable opening may prevent the home from receiving the highest opening-protection category—even when every other window has impact protection.

The current form separately identifies glazed and non-glazed openings and requires the inspector to determine the weakest form of protection present. Damaged openings needing repair or replacement receive a separate classification.

Why Is the Garage Door Important?

A garage door is one of the largest exterior openings on many Florida homes.

If the garage door fails during a storm, wind can enter the garage and increase pressure inside the structure. This can contribute to additional damage to walls and the roof.

A garage door may look reinforced but still lack the documentation needed for a wind-mitigation credit.

Useful documentation may include:

A Florida product-approval number
A Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance
The manufacturer and model number
Installation permits
An invoice identifying the installed product
A permanent label showing the applicable rating

Check the sides, interior panels, tracks, or edge of the garage door for identifying labels, but do not remove or alter the door to locate them.

Windows, doors, garage doors, skylights, shutters, and other exterior openings may all affect available wind-mitigation credits, and the weakest or undocumented opening can affect the home’s overall classification.

Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection the Same as a Four-Point Inspection?

No. They serve different purposes.

Wind Mitigation Inspection

A wind mitigation inspection documents construction features that may reduce wind damage and qualify the property for insurance credits.

It focuses primarily on:

Roof construction
Structural connections
Roof shape
Roof-deck sealing
Building-code information
Protection of exterior openings

Four-Point Inspection

A four-point inspection evaluates the age, type, and visible condition of four major home systems:

Roof
Electrical
Plumbing
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning

Insurance companies commonly request four-point inspections to help determine whether an older home meets underwriting requirements.

A homeowner may need both inspections. Completing one does not automatically satisfy the requirement for the other.

Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection a Pass-or-Fail Inspection?

No.

A wind mitigation inspection does not issue a passing or failing grade. It documents the features that are present and can be verified.

A home without impact windows, hurricane straps, or a sealed roof deck can still be insured, subject to the insurance company’s underwriting guidelines. It may simply qualify for fewer wind-mitigation credits.

Similarly, the presence of several strong features does not guarantee that every insurer will offer the same discount.

Who Can Perform a Wind Mitigation Inspection in Florida?

Florida law specifies who may sign the Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form.

Authorized professionals may include:

A properly licensed and trained Florida home inspector
A certified building-code inspector
A licensed general contractor
A licensed building contractor
A licensed residential contractor
A Florida-licensed professional engineer
A Florida-licensed professional architect
Another person or entity recognized by the insurer as qualified

A licensed home inspector must also satisfy the applicable hurricane-mitigation training and proficiency requirements.

Before scheduling the inspection, verify:

The inspector’s full name
The inspector’s Florida license type
The license number
Whether the license is active
Whether the inspector is qualified to complete the current OIR-B1-1802 form

The professional signing the form generally must personally inspect the structure, subject to limited statutory provisions allowing certain licensed professionals to use qualified direct employees.

How Should You Prepare for a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

Proper preparation can help the inspector verify features that might otherwise be listed as unknown or unsupported.

Make the Attic Accessible

The inspector may need attic access to verify:

Roof-deck attachment
Roof-to-wall connections
Secondary water resistance
Roof-framing details

Remove stored items blocking the attic opening and make sure the access panel can be safely opened.

When attic access is unavailable, the homeowner may lose the opportunity to receive certain credits because the inspector cannot verify the concealed features.

Gather Roofing Documents

Provide any available:

Roofing permits
Contracts
Paid invoices
Product-approval information
Roof warranty documents
Installation photographs
Underlayment specifications
Final inspection records

Locate Window and Door Information

Look for:

Impact-glass labels
Manufacturer names
Model numbers
Product-approval numbers
Installation permits
Window or door invoices
Shutter documentation

Do not remove permanent labels from windows or doors.

Make Storm Panels Available

If the home uses removable hurricane shutters or storm panels, have them available for inspection.

The inspector may need to verify:

That panels exist for the necessary openings
Their material and condition
Their identifying marks
The method used to attach them
That the hardware is available

Panels stored somewhere other than the insured property may be difficult to verify.

Provide Permit Records

Permit records may help establish:

The original construction date
The building code in effect
Roof replacement information
Window and door replacements
Shutter installation
Garage-door installation

Ensure an Adult Is Present

The homeowner does not always need to attend personally. An adult representative may be present, provided that person knows where to locate the attic access, storm panels, permits, and other documentation.

Before a Florida wind mitigation inspection, make the attic accessible and gather roofing permits, product approvals, opening-protection records, storm panels, and other supporting documentation.

What Happens During the Inspection?

During the inspection, the inspector may examine:

The exterior of the home
The roof shape and visible roof covering
The attic
Roof-to-wall connections
Roof-deck fasteners
Windows and exterior doors
Garage doors
Skylights
Storm shutters or panels
Building permits and product documentation

The inspector will take photographs and record supporting information for the completed form.

The current OIR form requires at least one photograph or supporting document to validate each applicable attribute identified in questions two through nine.

The inspection should not be based only on information provided verbally by the homeowner. The inspector must be able to personally observe or properly document the reported features.

What Documents Should You Receive?

After the inspection, request:

The complete signed OIR-B1-1802, Revised 04/26
All pages of the report
Supporting photographs
Permit information
Product documentation used by the inspector
The inspector’s license information
Any additional report or summary prepared by the inspection company

Review the form before submitting it.

Check that:

Your name and property address are correct
All pages are included
The inspection date is shown
The inspector signed the form
The inspector’s license information is complete
Photographs are clear
The reported roof type is accurate
Opening protection is correctly documented
Supporting documents are attached

Keep a permanent copy with your insurance records.

How Long Is a Florida Wind Mitigation Inspection Valid?

The current OIR-B1-1802 form is valid for up to five years, provided:

No material changes have been made to the structure
No inaccuracies are found on the form

A new inspection may be required sooner when:

The roof is replaced
Windows or doors are replaced
New shutters are installed
The garage door is replaced
Roof-to-wall connections are upgraded
A sealed roof deck is added
Structural alterations are completed
The insurer cannot verify the report
The report contains incomplete or inaccurate information

Do not assume an old report continues to describe the home accurately after renovations.

How Do You Submit the Report to the Insurance Company?

Send the complete report to your insurance agent or insurance company.

Do not submit only the signature page. Include:

The complete OIR-B1-1802, Revised 04/26
All photographs
Supporting documentation
Permit information
Product approvals
Other attachments supplied by the inspector

The insurance company will review the report and determine which credits apply under its approved rating plan.

An insurer may request additional information. Florida law also permits an insurer, at its own expense, to independently verify a mitigation form before accepting it, subject to applicable statutory requirements.

When Will the Discount Be Applied?

The effective date of a discount can vary by insurance company and circumstance.

It may be applied:

During a new policy application
After the insurer reviews an inspection submitted during the policy term
At renewal
After an endorsement or policy change

Ask your agent:

Whether the insurer accepts midterm mitigation updates
When the credit would become effective
Whether the premium will be recalculated
Whether the report will remain on file for future renewals
Whether additional documents are needed

Do not assume the inspector submits the report automatically. Confirm who is responsible for sending it to the insurance company.

How Much Can a Wind Mitigation Inspection Save?

There is no universal discount amount.

Savings vary because insurers calculate wind credits differently and apply them primarily to the wind-related portion of the premium—not necessarily the entire homeowners insurance premium.

Two homes on the same street can receive different savings because of differences in:

Roof shape
Roof age and installation
Roof-deck attachment
Roof-to-wall connections
Opening protection
Secondary water resistance
Building-code classification
Coverage amounts
Insurance company
Existing credits

A home with several qualifying features may receive meaningful savings, while another home may receive little or no additional discount.

Ask your agent to compare the policy premium before and after the report is processed.

Do Newer Florida Homes Need Wind Mitigation Inspections?

A newer home may have been constructed under stronger building-code requirements and may already qualify for certain credits.

However, the insurance company may still require documentation before applying all available discounts.

A wind mitigation inspection may also identify features that are not established by the year built alone, such as:

Verified opening protection
A qualifying sealed roof deck
Specific roof-to-wall connections
Roof-deck fastener strength
Replacement roof information

Before paying for an inspection, ask your insurance agent whether the insurer already recognizes the home’s construction features and whether an inspection is likely to provide additional information.

Should You Get a New Inspection After Replacing the Roof?

Often, yes.

A roof replacement can change several items documented on the wind mitigation form, including:

Roof-covering compliance
Roof-deck attachment
Secondary water resistance
Roof permit information
Product approvals
Installation date

Some roof improvements cannot be fully verified after the work is concealed. Ask the roofing contractor to provide:

Before-and-after photographs
Photographs of roof-deck fasteners
Photographs of sealed seams or underlayment
Product labels
Permit information
Final inspection documents
Detailed invoices

After improvements are completed, notify your insurance agent. The insurer may require a new wind mitigation inspection and supporting photographs before applying updated credits.

What Improvements May Increase Wind Resistance?

Possible improvements include:

Installing impact-rated windows and doors
Adding approved hurricane shutters
Replacing or reinforcing the garage door
Strengthening roof-to-wall connections
Improving roof-deck attachment
Installing a qualifying sealed roof deck
Replacing noncompliant roof coverings
Repairing damaged exterior openings

Not every improvement produces the same insurance savings.

Before beginning a project:

Ask your agent which features currently receive credits.
Ask how the proposed improvement may affect the policy.
Obtain written product specifications.
Use appropriately licensed contractors.
Confirm required permits.
Photograph concealed work before it is covered.
Retain every invoice, permit, and product-approval document.
Schedule a new inspection when the project is complete.

Insurance savings should be one consideration—not the only reason for completing a structural improvement.

Impact-rated openings, stronger roof attachments, a qualifying sealed roof deck, and compliant roof covering may support wind-mitigation credits when properly documented with permits, invoices, product approvals, photographs, inspections, and an updated wind-mitigation report.

Can My Safe Florida Home Help?

The My Safe Florida Home Program may provide free hurricane-mitigation inspections and grant assistance to eligible Florida homeowners.

Current inspection eligibility includes certain owner-occupied, site-built, single-family detached homes and townhouses with a homestead exemption. Condominiums, mobile homes, rental properties, vacation homes, and several other property types are not eligible under the program’s current inspection criteria.

Grant eligibility contains additional requirements and is subject to funding, application periods, program rules, and legislative changes. Homeowners should verify current eligibility directly with the program before relying on assistance.

Common Wind Mitigation Inspection Mistakes

Using an Unauthorized Inspector

A report may be rejected when the person performing or signing it does not meet Florida’s licensing and training requirements.

Using an Outdated Form

For inspections performed on or after April 1, 2026, confirm that the inspector is using the current OIR-B1-1802 form.

Blocking the Attic Access

The inspector may be unable to verify roof-deck attachment, roof-to-wall connections, or secondary water resistance.

Failing to Provide Documents

Impact windows, shutters, roof coverings, and garage doors may not receive the expected classification without product approvals, permits, invoices, or labels.

Assuming All Shutters Qualify

Protection must be properly documented. Unverified shutters may receive a different classification from verified impact-rated systems.

Forgetting About the Garage Door

A non-rated or undocumented garage door can affect the opening-protection classification.

Assuming a New Roof Automatically Receives Every Credit

The roof covering, deck attachment, sealed roof deck, and roof-to-wall connections are separate features.

Submitting an Incomplete Report

Missing pages, photographs, signatures, license information, or attachments can delay or prevent acceptance.

Assuming the Inspector Determines the Discount

The inspector documents the home. The insurance company determines which credits apply and calculates the premium.

Waiting Until Renewal Is Almost Complete

Allow enough time for the inspection, report corrections, document collection, underwriting review, and policy processing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Wind Mitigation Inspections

1. Is a wind mitigation inspection required in Florida?

It is not universally required for every Florida homeowner. However, an insurance company may request one, and a qualifying report may be necessary to receive certain wind-mitigation discounts.

2. Does a wind mitigation inspection lower homeowners insurance?

It may. Savings depend on the home’s documented features, the insurer’s rating plan, existing credits, and the wind-related portion of the premium.

3. Is a wind mitigation inspection the same as a hurricane inspection?

The terms are sometimes used interchangeably. For insurance-discount purposes, the inspector generally completes Florida’s Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form.

4. How much does a wind mitigation inspection cost?

Private inspection fees vary by inspector, location, property size, accessibility, and services included. Obtain the price in writing before scheduling. Eligible homeowners may qualify for a free inspection through the My Safe Florida Home Program.

5. How long does the inspection take?

The time varies according to the size and complexity of the home, attic accessibility, number of openings, and availability of documentation.

6. How long is the report valid?

The current Florida form is valid for up to five years when no material structural changes have occurred and no inaccuracies are found.

7. Can I use an inspection completed for the previous homeowner?

Possibly, provided it remains valid, accurately describes the property, includes all required documentation, and is accepted by the insurance company. Submit it to your agent for review.

8. Does the inspection expire exactly five years after the inspection date?

Generally, the form is valid for up to five years. The insurer may require an updated report when the form expires, the home changes, or the submitted information cannot be verified.

9. Does a new roof automatically qualify for a discount?

Not necessarily. The roof covering, permit date, product approval, roof-deck attachment, secondary water resistance, and other features are evaluated separately.

10. Do hurricane clips qualify for a discount?

They may, depending on their type, placement, number of fasteners, condition, and whether the inspector can verify them. Simply seeing a metal connector does not establish the highest classification.

11. Are single-wrap straps better than clips?

The form places roof-to-wall connections into different categories. The insurance effect depends on the verified connection and the insurer’s rating plan. The inspector must report the weakest connection.

12. Do impact windows guarantee the highest opening-protection credit?

No. All relevant glazed openings must be evaluated, and exterior doors, garage doors, skylights, and other openings can affect the classification.

13. Do hurricane shutters count?

Approved and properly documented shutters may qualify. Unverified shutters or panels without supporting documentation may receive a lower classification.

14. Does plywood count as opening protection?

Certain properly sized and installed structural panels may qualify under the applicable building-code standard. Ordinary plywood stored in a garage does not automatically qualify.

15. Does an impact-rated garage door matter?

Yes. The garage door is included in the opening-protection evaluation and may affect the overall classification.

16. What happens when the attic cannot be accessed?

The inspector may be unable to verify roof-deck attachment, roof-to-wall connections, or secondary water resistance, potentially reducing the available credits.

17. Can spray foam qualify for a wind mitigation credit?

Certain spray-foam systems may qualify for roof-deck attachment or sealed-roof-deck classifications when they meet the current form’s requirements and are properly documented. Not every spray-foam installation qualifies.

18. Is peel-and-stick underlayment considered secondary water resistance?

Certain fully adhered qualifying products may be considered secondary water resistance. The specific material and installation must satisfy the form’s requirements and be documented.

19. Is synthetic roof underlayment enough for the SWR credit?

Not automatically. Standard underlayment does not necessarily meet the sealed-roof-deck requirements.

20. Can a wind mitigation inspection hurt my premium?

A new inspection may confirm additional credits, but it may also fail to support a credit previously assumed or reveal that a feature was incorrectly classified. The insurer bases its decision on the accepted documentation.

21. Does the inspection determine whether my home is insurable?

Not by itself. A wind mitigation inspection is primarily used to document wind-resistant features. Insurance eligibility depends on the insurer’s complete underwriting requirements.

22. Can my insurance agent perform the inspection?

Only when the agent separately possesses an authorized license or qualification recognized under Florida law and by the insurer. An insurance license alone does not authorize someone to sign the wind mitigation form.

23. Does my insurance company have to accept the inspector’s conclusions?

The insurer reviews the form and documentation. It may request additional information or independently verify the inspection as permitted by Florida law.

24. Should I get an inspection before purchasing a home?

It can be useful when estimating insurance costs or identifying existing mitigation features. Coordinate with your insurance agent and home inspector so the correct form and documentation are completed.

25. Should I order both a wind mitigation and four-point inspection?

Possibly. They serve different purposes, and an insurer may request both. Ask your agent which inspections are required for the specific home and insurance company.

Review Your Wind Mitigation Credits

A wind mitigation inspection can provide valuable information about how a Florida home was constructed and may help reduce the wind-related portion of the homeowners insurance premium.

The most important steps are to:

Use an authorized inspector
Confirm that the current form is being used
Make the attic accessible
Gather permits and product documentation
Include every page and photograph
Submit the complete report to your agent
Review the resulting credits
Obtain a new inspection after material improvements

Do not evaluate an insurance policy based on wind credits alone. Coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, roof-settlement provisions, water-damage limitations, and the financial responsibility of the insurer also matter.

Get Help Reviewing Your Florida Homeowners Insurance

First Florida Agency can help you review your current homeowners insurance, identify the wind-mitigation information already included in the policy, and compare available coverage options from the insurance companies we represent.

Contact First Florida Agency

Phone: 904-822-8800
Website: FirstFloridaAgency.com

First Florida Agency serves homeowners throughout Nocatee, Ponte Vedra, St. Johns County, Northeast Florida, and communities across Florida.

Insurance coverage, discounts, eligibility, inspections, and underwriting requirements are subject to the terms of the applicable policy, the insurance company’s approved guidelines, current Florida law, and the specific characteristics of the property. A wind mitigation inspection does not guarantee insurance eligibility or premium savings.

About the Author

John Closterides is the Founder and Principal Agent of First Florida Agency. With more than a decade of insurance experience, he helps homeowners, families, and business owners throughout Florida better understand their insurance options and make informed decisions about protecting what matters most.

John specializes in homeowners, flood, auto, and commercial insurance and is passionate about making insurance easier to understand through clear, practical guidance.

Continue learning about Florida homeowners insurance, inspections, underwriting, and coverage with these related guides from First Florida Agency:

Home and Auto Insurance in Nocatee, Florida (2026 Guide)

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Insurance Disclaimer

The information in this article is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended as insurance, legal, financial, construction, engineering, inspection, or regulatory advice.

Insurance coverage, eligibility, discounts, credits, inspection requirements, acceptable documentation, form acceptance, underwriting decisions, premiums, and potential savings vary by insurance company, policy, property, inspection findings, and individual circumstances.

A wind mitigation inspection does not guarantee insurance eligibility, premium savings, or a particular classification. The inspector documents observable or verifiable construction features, while the insurance company determines which credits apply under its approved rating plan.

No insurance coverage is created, modified, or guaranteed by this article. The issued policy, endorsements, declarations, exclusions, definitions, and conditions control. Consult a licensed insurance professional and appropriately qualified inspectors, contractors, engineers, or other advisers regarding your specific situation.