Do I Need a Wind Mitigation on My New Home?

Did you know that over 75% of Florida homeowners who get a wind mitigation inspection save money on their home insurance? That’s right! If you’ve just purchased a new home, especially in a storm-prone area like Florida, understanding wind mitigation could help you stay safe—and save big.

In this article, we’ll explain what wind mitigation is, how it works, and whether you need one for your new home. We’ll also discuss how a Florida wind mitigation inspection can protect both your property and your wallet.

What Is Wind Mitigation?

Wind mitigation is a process used to check how well a home can withstand strong winds—especially those from hurricanes or tropical storms. It involves an inspection that looks at specific parts of the home’s structure, such as the roof, doors, windows, and how the roof is connected to the walls.

The goal is to find out if your home has features that make it more resistant to wind damage. If it does, you may qualify for discounts on your homeowner’s insurance.

Why Is Wind Mitigation Important?

Homes in storm-prone areas, like Florida, face the risk of high wind speeds and heavy rain during hurricane season. Strong winds can cause serious damage, including:

• Roofs being torn off
  
  
• Broken windows and doors
  
  
• Water getting inside the home
  
  
• Structural damage to walls
  
  

Florida wind mitigation inspections help identify whether your home has the right protections in place. And here’s the best part: Insurance companies in Florida are required by law to offer discounts if your home passes certain wind-resistance standards.

Isn’t My New Home Already Built to Code?

This is a common question: “My house is new, so do I still need a wind mitigation inspection?” The answer: Yes, and here’s why.

While many new homes are built according to modern building codes that include some wind protection, not all homes are built the same. Wind mitigation inspections go a step further by checking exactly how your home is built—not just what the code says.

Also, even if your new home has wind-resistant features, you won’t receive insurance discounts unless they are properly documented through a wind mitigation inspection.

What Does a Wind Mitigation Inspection Include?

A licensed inspector will look at these key areas:

1. Roof Covering

Is the roof made with strong, wind-resistant materials like shingles that meet Florida building codes?

2. Roof Deck Attachment

How well is the roof deck attached to the home’s frame? Inspectors check for nail size, spacing, and patterns.

3. Roof-to-Wall Connections

Are hurricane clips or straps used to hold the roof to the walls? Strong connectors are better at keeping the roof in place during storms.

4. Roof Shape

Hip roofs (sloped on all sides) perform better in high winds than gable roofs.

5. Secondary Water Barrier

Is there a layer under the roof covering that prevents water from getting in if the roof gets damaged?

6. Opening Protection

Do your windows, doors, and garage doors have shutters or impact-resistant glass?

Each of these features can earn you points in a wind mitigation report—and more points may equal bigger savings on your insurance premiums.

How Much Money Can I Save?

The savings vary depending on your insurance company and how wind-resistant your home is. But many Florida homeowners report saving between 15% to 70% on their insurance premiums after a successful wind mitigation inspection.

Is Wind Mitigation Only for Florida?

While Florida has the most well-known wind mitigation program due to its hurricane history, other coastal states like Louisiana, Texas, and the Carolinas may also have wind protection programs or discounts. However, Florida is the only state that requires insurance companies to offer premium discounts for documented wind-resistant features.

So if you're a homeowner in Florida, a wind mitigation inspection isn't just a good idea—it’s a smart investment.

When Should I Get a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

If your home is new or recently built, it’s best to schedule an inspection right away—even if it’s just for documentation. This ensures you get credit for all the wind-resistant features built into your home. If your home is older, the inspection can tell you which upgrades could help you qualify for savings and improve your safety.

The best times to get a wind mitigation inspection include:

• Right after purchasing a home.
  
  
• Before hurricane season (June to November in Florida).
  
  
• When renewing your insurance policy.
  
  
• After installing a new roof or hurricane protection features.
  
  

Can I Fail a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

No, you can’t "fail" a wind mitigation inspection. It's not a pass-or-fail test. Instead, the inspection simply reports what features your home has. Even if your home doesn't qualify for any discounts right now, you'll know what improvements could help in the future.

How Do I Schedule a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

It’s simple! Just contact a licensed home inspection company, like Guardian Angel Inspections, that offers wind mitigation services. Make sure the inspector is certified to complete the required forms for your insurance company.

Most inspections take about an hour and include photos and a detailed report that can be sent directly to your insurance provider.

Final Thoughts

Even if you’ve just moved into a brand-new home, a wind mitigation inspection is still a smart move. It helps you:

• Stay safer during hurricanes and storms
  
  
• Qualify for home insurance discounts
  
  
• Understand your home’s structural strength
  
  

In storm-prone states like Florida, wind mitigation isn't just a bonus—it’s a must.

Protect your home and save on insurance—schedule your wind mitigation inspection with Guardian Angel Inspections today.