What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation inspection is not a complete home inspection but rather an inspection that focuses on the structural features of a property that can help reduce damage from high winds, such as hurricanes and tropical storms. Insurance companies frequently require this inspection to qualify for windstorm insurance or to receive discounts on windstorm insurance premiums.
A wind mitigation inspection is intended to evaluate the overall strength and stability of a property's roof and walls and other structural features that can help protect the property from wind damage. The inspector will look for specific construction features and building codes that improve a home's wind resistance.
During the inspection, the inspector will look for things like:
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the type of roof covering and its age
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the type of roof decking and its fastening
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the roof-to-wall connections
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the type of roof shape, gable end bracing
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the presence of shutters, window, and door protection and their type
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the type of foundation and wall construction
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and many other features.
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The inspector will provide a detailed report of their findings following the inspection, including any identified features that can reduce wind damage and any recommendations for repairs or upgrades. This report can be used to confirm these features' existence and apply for insurance premium discounts.
Not all properties are eligible for all discounts, and the number of discounts available varies depending on the property and the insurance company.
Overall, a wind mitigation inspection is essential for homeowners to understand the risk of wind damage to their property, and insurance companies may require it. It can help identify potential issues before they become major and provide windstorm insurance premium discounts.
Why Do I Need a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation report may be required for a variety of reasons, including:
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Insurance Discounts: Many insurance companies offer windstorm insurance premium discounts for properties that have been inspected and found to have structural features that can help reduce damage from high winds. A wind mitigation report can be used to confirm the existence of these features and apply for these discounts.
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Storm Protection: A wind mitigation inspection can help identify potential structural flaws in your property that may make it more vulnerable to damage from high winds. Addressing these issues can help protect your property and family from potential storm damage.
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A wind mitigation report can be valuable if you plan to sell your home. It demonstrates that your property has been inspected and found to comply with building codes and standards for wind damage protection.
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Safety: A wind mitigation inspection can help ensure the safety and security of your property during high winds. If a potential problem is identified, it can be addressed before it becomes a significant issue.
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Wind mitigation inspections are required in some municipalities when obtaining a building permit or in specific areas where windstorms are common. It's a good idea to check with your local building department to see if there are any regulations in your area.
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Overall, a wind mitigation report is essential for homeowners to understand the risk of wind damage to their property, which insurance companies may require. It can help identify potential issues before they become major, provide windstorm insurance premium discounts, and provide safety, resale value, and compliance.
How Long Does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Take?
A wind mitigation inspection usually takes about an hour to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the property. The inspector will need to thoroughly examine the property's roof, walls, shutters, doors, windows, and other structural features, which can take some time.
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The inspector will typically start by inspecting the property's exterior, looking for signs of damage or wear, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or animal damage. They will also look at the roof-to-wall connections, the type of roof shape, gable end bracing, the presence of shutters, and the type of window and door protection.
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The inspector will then proceed inside the property to inspect the walls, foundation, and other structural features that can aid in wind damage protection. Your Dream Home Inspector will also look into the property's compliance with building codes that have been shown to increase a home's resistance to wind damage.
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Following the inspection, the inspector will provide a detailed report of their findings, including any features discovered that can reduce wind damage and any recommendations for repairs or upgrades. The inspector will also include photos of any problems discovered.
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It is important to note that the inspection time can vary depending on the complexity of the property, its age, and the condition of the systems. The inspection process may take longer if the property is in poor condition or has not been recently updated.
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A wind mitigation inspection takes about an hour on average, but this can vary depending on the property being inspected. It's also a good idea to schedule the inspection at least a few weeks before hurricane season begins so that you have enough time to make any necessary repairs or upgrades before the storm season begins.