What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
The ‘Wind Mitigation Verification Form” is unique to Florida and allows for flood insurance discounts or credits when a house has taken steps to minimize storm damage. It is a voluntary program but must be accepted by the insurance underwriter when submitted. The discounts, if eligible, are good for up to five years and the discounts can be significant. Dwellings eligible for a discount include single-family homes, condominium units, and condominium buildings.
In order for a homeowner or homebuyer to qualify, a Wind Mitigation Form must be completed by a recognized professional who follows a protocol by filling out the form with appropriate pictures.
These are some of the areas the Wind Form addresses:
- Enhanced roof strength
- Wall-to-floor-to-foundation strength
- Roof-to-wall strength
- Roof covering performance
- Opening protection
- Window, door, and skylight strength
4-point home inspection
A 4-Point inspection is usually mandatory and requested by the insurance underwriter when a house is more than 20, 30, or 50 years old; depending on the underwriter. A 4-Point utilizes an insurance form to evaluate certain components of a building to determine if they are acceptable to the underwriter before a policy is written, when a house is being purchased or the insurance renewed.