A wind mitigation inspection is a tool insurance companies use to determine the ability of a structure to withstand strong, sustained winds. In a hurricane-prone state like Florida, knowing whether a home will withstand potential damage is not only essential for insurance companies but for homeowners, too. This is where the wind mitigation inspector plays a vital role.
Only licensed general contractors, building contractors, architects, engineers, building or home inspectors can conduct a wind mitigation inspection in Florida. The wind mitigation inspector looks at all the entry points to a home, including the roof/wall attachments, roof opening, windows, doors, and garage doors.
They also examine secondary water resistance in the event there’s a breach or damage to the exterior. The inspection is documented on form 2012-2025 Form OIR-B1-1802 and through photographs.
Understanding Wind Mitigation
Hurricane-force winds can be incredibly destructive on a house that is not appropriately “tied” down, meaning there are entry points into the structure. Usually, these are through existing entry points, such as doors, windows, and the roof. Damage can be compounded by any ensuing water damage.
To mitigate possible damage, homeowners should strengthen the weak points identified by a wind mitigation inspector.
This can lead to real savings through lower insurance costs and reduced damage during hurricane season. Wind mitigation credits are given to homes with features that provide a protective benefit and used to offset insurance costs.
Some of the features inspectors will look for include:
- Newer roofs
- Longer nails placed closer together
- Hipped roofs
- Secondary water resistance
- High impact-rated doors, windows, and other openings
Their report helps determine the insurance credits a homeowner will qualify for.
Qualifications for Conducting Wind Mitigation Inspections
Florida statute allows licensed general, building, or residential contractors, professional engineers, home inspectors, and building code inspectors to perform wind mitigation inspections. The code also states that the inspection must be completed by the individual holding the license, not an employee.
Licensees are required to complete Florida wind mitigation inspection training. Wind mitigation inspector training includes a review of the uniform inspection form, how to complete the form, terminology, dos and don’ts of an inspection, and best practices while conducting an inspection.
What to Look for During a Wind Mitigation Inspection
Wind mitigation inspectors look for features on a house that can catch the wind. For example, older single-pane windows can shatter in high winds and older roofs can blow off. Inspectors use specialized equipment to find nails, bring measuring tapes to determine nail spacing, and take plenty of photos.
Here are a few things inspectors look for:
Roof Structure and Condition
The most common roof types are gable and hip. In Florida, newer roofs are hip or hip combination roofs as this roof-type withstands higher wind velocities. Inspectors will evaluate the roof deck attachment. Roof decks using thicker plywood and longer nails spaced more closely together hold up to wind better. Steel and concrete are considered superior but are not as common in single-family homes.
A secondary water resistance layer is a wind mitigation feature that prevents water from entering the home should the primary roof covering fail, i.e., the shingles or tiles are ripped off by the wind. Secondary water resistance layers are self-adhered and self-sealing material laid over the standard code-approved underlayment.
Opening Protections
Each opening to the house is evaluated, including windows, doors, or other opening to the exterior. Inspectors look for impact-resistant doors, glass, hurricane shutters, impact-resistant skylights and vent covers.
The labels on windows and doors list a Notice of Acceptance (NOA) number. Inspectors can search for the NOA number online to determine window or door rating. The glazing in windows (small print on the glass) documents whether it is impact resistant.
Roof-to-Wall Connection
The roof-to-wall connection is what holds the roof onto the house. Nails, clips, single wrap, and double wrap straps can be used for this purpose. Inspectors will verify how many nails are used or if clips or straps are used and how those are affixed to the structure.
Garage Doors
Similar to windows and doors, garage doors are also rated. Inspectors look to see if the garage door is structurally sound. If the NOA number is not visible, the serial number is located to learn more about the type of garage door. The inspector may also check building department permits to determine the wind rating for a garage door or other door or window.
Documentation and Reporting
The Florida Uniform Wind Mitigation Verification Form 2012-2025 Form OIR-B1-1802 is used to document the inspection through photographs.
The form is divided into seven sections:
- Building Code Compliance
- Roof Covering
- Roof Deck Attachment
- Roof-to-Wall Attachment
- Roof Geometry
- Secondary Water Resistance
- Opening Protection
It’s imperative that the form is completed in its entirety and accurately. Permits are pulled from the building department to determine age, product, and date of replacement or installation for windows, doors, skylights, garage doors, or other openings to the exterior. Specialized tools are used to find nails in wood, which are marked, measured, and documented in photos.
The impact the wind mitigation form can have on a property is substantial. It can save homeowners a lot of money in insurance costs and can be used as a tool to determine upgrades that are needed to maintain public safety. Lastly, buyers may ask for a wind mitigation form during the inspection period of a home sale.
Tips for Success as a Wind Mitigation Inspector
If you’re already a licensed contractor, home, or building inspector, completing a wind mitigation inspector course can be an easy way to add extra income to your bottom line. Licensed contractors can use the results from the inspection to upsell services, such as a new roof or replacement windows.
To become a wind mitigation inspector, you simply need to complete a Florida wind mitigation inspector course.
Once you’re a wind mitigation inspector, it’s important to stay current with Florida building code updates and changes in insurance requirements. Florida wind mitigation inspector continuing education (CE) is an easy way to check a few things off the list—continuing education helps you stay up with industry trends and regulations and satisfy licensing renewal requirements.
Learn how Gold Coast School of Construction can help you increase your marketability and stay current with state requirements.