In Florida, wind mitigation inspections are a must for any homebuyer or business owner. As the most hurricane-prone state in the country, Florida is no stranger to severe weather and high winds.
When it comes to protecting your home or business from wind damage, a Wind Mitigation Inspection is an important step to take.
While a standard home inspection will check for defects that could lead to problems down the road, a wind mitigation inspection is specifically designed to identify features of a home that make it more or less resistant to wind damage.
But, what is a wind mitigation inspection and why do I need it? Who conducts these? Do these inspections benefit me? Are wind mitigation inspections required for insurance purposes?
These are all great questions! Let’s explore each one in a little more detail.
1. What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A Wind Mitigation Inspection is an evaluation of a property’s vulnerability to wind damage.
The inspection looks at the construction of the building, including the roof, walls, windows, and doors. It also assesses the home’s location and exposure to wind gusts.
The goal of a Wind Mitigation Inspection is to provide information that can help homeowners and building owners make their homes and structures stronger so they are less likely to be damaged by wind.
2. Who should get a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
Homeowners, business owners, and property managers should all consider getting a Wind Mitigation Inspection.
This inspection can be especially beneficial for those who live in hurricane-prone areas, such as Lakeland, Fl, or those who have experienced wind damage in the past.
3. Who conducts wind mitigation inspections?
A licensed home inspector can conduct wind mitigation inspections. As with any other inspection, always verify that the inspector is licensed.
Specifically, ask your Wind Mitigation Inspectors if they are certified by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI).
The easiest way to find a wind mitigation inspector is to simply google search “wind mitigation inspectors near me”.
Or better yet, if you’re in the Lakeland area, look for By Your Side Inspections and I will be happy to conduct a wind mitigation inspection for you!
4. Why do I need a wind mitigation inspection?
In short, wind mitigation inspections can save you money on your insurance premiums and can help protect you, your family, and your property.
By identifying features of your home that make it more resistant to wind damage, you may be eligible for discounts on your hurricane and windstorm insurance policy.
5. Does homeowners insurance require a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
In some cases, yes. Some insurance companies require a Wind Mitigation Inspection before providing wind damage coverage.
Insurance companies usually require a 4-point inspection and a wind mitigation inspection so a lot of times home inspectors will group these two inspections into an insurance package.
Even if your insurer does not require an inspection, getting one is still a good idea.
The information gathered during an inspection can help you save money on your insurance premiums and maybe even your life.
6. How much does a wind mitigation inspection cost?
The cost of a wind mitigation inspection varies, depending on the size and complexity of the property. However, most inspections range from $100 to $400.
Which when you think about it, it’s not a bad price to pay considering all the benefits.
Some insurance companies offer discounts for policyholders who get wind mitigation inspections, so be sure to ask your insurer about any possible discounts.
7. What are the benefits of a Wind Mitigation Inspection
So already as you can see, there are many benefits to getting a Wind Mitigation Inspection. These benefits include:
- Reducing the amount of damage caused by severe weather.
- Minimizing the cost of repairs after severe weather.
- Helping to ensure the safety of your family and employees during severe weather.
- Possible insurance discounts based on wind protection.
- Less worry knowing you and your property are as protected as possible.
- Knowing that you took the steps to be prepared for hurricane season and severe weather.
8. How can you get the most out of your wind mitigation Inspection?
To get the most out of your Wind Mitigation Inspection, there are a few things you can do:
- Make sure to hire a qualified inspector. A qualified inspector will have experience conducting these types of inspections and will know what to look for.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your property. The inspector will need to know about the construction of your home or business, as well as its history of damage and exposure to wind gusts or storms.
- Make sure to follow any recommendations from the inspector. If the inspector identifies vulnerabilities in your property, make sure to take action to address them.
- And best of all make sure your insurance company has all the information so you can get those discounts!
9. What Should I Do After Receiving the Wind Mitigation Report?
After receiving the inspection report, you should review it carefully. If there are any items in the report that you do not understand, you should ask the inspector to explain them.
Once you have reviewed the report, you can then decide what action you would like to take to improve the wind resistance of your property.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Wind mitigation inspections are a vital part of protecting your home or business in Florida.
By taking the time to get an inspection, you’re not only ensuring that your home or business is better prepared for when severe weather strikes, but they can help keep you and your family safe during hurricane season.
All while saving you money on your insurance premiums!
That should be all you need to know on wind mitigation inspections, By Your Side Home Inspections is always here to help!
As a Certified Lakeland Home Inspector, I would be happy to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Please do not hesitate to contact me.
We provide home inspection services to the lovely people of Lakeland, Fl and its surrounding towns such as Winter Haven, Auburndale, Polk City, Socrum etc. We also serve Gibsonia, Bartow, Zephyrhills, Crystal Springs, and Plant City.
Visit our website www.byyoursideinspections.com or give us a call at (863)267-0422.
We look forward to hearing from you!