What Is a Wind Mitigation Discount?
Under Florida Statute 627.0629, insurance companies are required to offer premium discounts to homeowners whose properties have features that reduce wind damage. These discounts are based on a standardized wind mitigation inspection report — the OIR-B1-1802 form — completed by a licensed inspector.
The discounts can be substantial. Homeowners with impact-resistant windows and doors, a hip roof, and strong roof-to-wall connections can save 20–45% on their windstorm premium. On a $3,000 annual premium, that's $600–$1,350 per year — every year.
The inspection itself costs $75–$150 and takes about an hour. The report is valid for 5 years and can be used with any Florida insurer. Most homeowners recoup the inspection cost in the first month of savings.
What Features Qualify for Wind Mitigation Discounts?
The wind mitigation inspection evaluates seven key features of your home. Each feature that meets the required standard earns a discount credit. Here's what inspectors look for:
| Feature | What Qualifies | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Building Code | Built to 2001 FBC or later | Up to 8% |
| Roof Covering | FBC-approved shingles, metal, tile | Up to 15% |
| Roof Deck Attachment | 8d nails at 6" spacing or better | Up to 15% |
| Roof-to-Wall Connection | Hurricane straps (clips, single/double wraps) | Up to 23% |
| Roof Shape | Hip roof (all sides slope down) | Up to 32% |
| Opening Protection | Impact windows/doors or storm shutters | Up to 45% |
| Secondary Water Resistance | Peel-and-stick underlayment | Up to 5% |
*Savings percentages are approximate and vary by insurer. Discounts are cumulative for qualifying features.
Who Can Perform a Wind Mitigation Inspection in Florida?
Florida law specifies who is authorized to complete a wind mitigation inspection. Qualified inspectors include: licensed general contractors, building contractors, roofing contractors, home inspectors, engineers, and architects. The inspector must be licensed in Florida and must sign the OIR-B1-1802 form.
When hiring an inspector, ask specifically whether they are familiar with the OIR-B1-1802 form and whether they have experience with your type of construction (CBS block, wood frame, manufactured). An experienced inspector will know exactly what documentation to gather to maximize your credits.
Avoid inspectors who offer unusually low prices or promise to "get you the best discounts" — the inspection must be accurate and defensible. Insurers can audit wind mitigation reports, and fraudulent reports can result in policy cancellation.
How to Use Your Wind Mitigation Report
Once you have your completed OIR-B1-1802 report, submit it to your current insurer and ask for a premium recalculation. Your insurer is required to apply the credits. If your current insurer's rates are still high after applying the credits, use the report to shop other carriers — it's valid for 5 years and transferable.
When getting new quotes, always provide the wind mitigation report upfront. Some agents will quote without it and add credits later; others need it from the start to give you an accurate rate. Providing it upfront ensures you're comparing apples to apples.
Find Out How Much You Can Save
Our specialists can help you understand your wind mitigation credits and find the carrier that offers the best rates for your home's features. Call for a free quote comparison.
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