Wind Mitigation Surveys in Florida - What to Expect

When the insurance on our modest Florida home went from $700 a year in 2003 to $2600 in 2005, due to the 5 hurricanes in our vicinity in two years' time, our agent suggested we consider a Wind Mitigation Survey. Wind Mitigation Surveys help Florida homeowners save money on their homeowner's insurance based on the condition and age of their home's roof, the way it is attached and other precautions against wind damage. Here is what you can expect if you request a Wind Mitigation Survey on your Florida home.

How Do I Find a Company That Does Wind Mitigation Surveys in Florida?
After just a quick search on the Internet for Wind Mitigation Surveys, a variety of companies surfaced, such as the following:
Bell Inspection Service

Britannia Building Consultants
727-446-0110

JP Enterprises' Inspection Services
1-866-814-5554

Premium Adjustments, Inc.

888-904-9463

Once you choose the company you want, call and set up an appointment that is convenient for you. We chose Premium Adjustments, Inc. on the recommendation of our Insurance Agent. We set up the appointment and were told a licensed inspector would complete a Wind Mitigation Survey on our home.

How Much Does a Wind Mitigation Survey Cost?
Most of the companies charge somewhere in the neighborhood of $100.00. We paid $85.00.

What Happens When the Wind Mitigation Inspector Shows Up?
Our inspector called and asked if he could come sooner than originally planned. This worked out well for me, so I said yes. Soon two gentleman arrived, coming up and introducing themselves, as well as handing me a card from their company. One gentleman went in to the attic, and took measurements and photos; the other began working on a laptop.

Gentleman B asked me when our roof had been replaced and whether or not I had a Roofing Permit. Our roof was only five years old, and although I could not locate the Permit, I was able to find it on our County's government website by date and name. This was enough to document our claim. While Gentleman A did the grunt work, Gentleman B documented his findings on the computer. The whole thing took maybe 20 minutes, and then I was told that having straps, clips and "superior" attachment methods would definitely help us save money. I was asked to sign a paper and also to give over a check in the amount of $85.00. The gentlemen left after assuring me I would receive an email within days regarding their findings along with the forms that needed to be forwarded to the Insurance Company. As my agent would also be getting the email, we had agreed that he would forward the documents.

What Is the Wind Mitigation Inspector Looking For?
According to the forms that were filled out and submitted, the inspector is looking for all sorts of information about the roof, the way it is secured, and the way the entire structure is protected from severe wind damage. For example, we were given a Roof Condition Certification Form and A Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form.
What is a Roof Condition Certification Form?
A Roof Condition Certification Form shows the age of the roof, the type (shingle, metal, etc.), and the condition, along with the ways it is secured to the house. Pictures accompany the form.

What is A Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form?
A Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form gives information about the homeowner, the building code the structure was constructed under, the roof covering, deck attachments, roof attachments (such as clips or straps), angle and bracing of the roof, and other information about water and wind resistance of the structure's windows and doors. This is also accompanied by photos of the residence.

Will I Get a Refund From the Insurance Company If My Home Qualifies?
The insurance company informed us that they do not do refunds of monies already paid. But since we had elected to pay our premium in payments spread out through the year, the savings will be deducted from the adjusted amount , so we won't have to pay nearly as much this year. Next year the original amount will be discounted to our new level, so our first, largest payment will be smaller.

So Was a Wind Mitigation Survey Profitable For Me?
Yes, it was! We received an email with the official reports and photos attached within just days. My agent forwarded them to the Insurance Company and very soon, within a couple of weeks, we learned that we would be saving $600 a year, for up to five years, off of our Homeowner's Insurance. Results depend on the condition of your roof and home wind damage precautions, but if your roof is relatively new and in good shape, I would recommend that you request a Wind Mitigation Survey and see if you can save money off on homeowner's insurance for your Florida home.

Sources: Personal experience with a Wind Mitigation Survey
Bell Inspection Service

Britannia Building Consultants

J.P. Enterprises' Inspection Service

Premium Adjustment, Inc.