What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

Posted on November 15, 2022

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Hayden Haskins | author

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ICHQ | Site Author

A wind mitigation inspection relates to taking proactive steps toward protecting your home or property in the event of hurricane-strength winds, and if your property fares well in the inspection, it can save you a considerable amount on your insurance premiums in the process.

Windstorms like hurricanes can be especially damaging, and windstorm mitigation can leave you far better prepared to handle what comes your way. If your home has been damaged in a storm, an experienced New Orleans insurance claims attorney is standing by to help.

Your Wind Mitigation Inspection

A wind mitigation inspection – or windstorm mitigation inspection – involves a certified inspector carefully examining your home in relation to those wind-resistant features, including your doors, windows, and roof.

To maximize your homeowners’ insurance discounts, it’s important to focus on those wind-resistant features that tend to offer the most protection, such as the following:

  • Having a solid roof that is in good condition and includes a secondary layer of tight water resistance
  • Having a metal roof that slopes downward from all sides — or a hip roof
  • Having coverings that are impact resistant, such as hurricane covers, over all windows and doors with glass enclosures
  • Having garage doors that qualify as stormproof
  • Having double-wrapped roof/wall attachments

When you take a proactive approach to windstorms, your property is far better protected, and you can save money in the process.

The State of Louisiana

There are storm mitigation incentives in Louisiana that include wind mitigation. If your home meets the required parameters, you can save 20 to 55 percent on the wind portion of your homeowners’ policy. Further, Louisiana affords tax deductions of 50 percent of the amount you spend on the wind mitigation of your home – up to $5,000 total.

Wind Mitigation Credits

The more thorough your wind mitigation efforts, the more wind mitigation credits you’ll receive. Most wind mitigation projects require engineering and construction skills, which makes working with licensed professionals well-advised. Your wind mitigation credits will guide the discounts and tax deductions you experience. Some insurance companies translate these credits to an automatic discount, and others offer policyholders credits they can use to pay their premiums.

Scheduling Your Wind Mitigation Inspection

The process for obtaining a wind mitigation inspection is fairly straightforward, but it’s important to find a reputable, certified home inspector with good reviews and competitive rates. Generally, insurance companies don’t reimburse policyholders for wind mitigation inspections, which makes doing your homework key.

From here, it’s time to schedule an appointment for your inspection. Finally, you’ll send the forthcoming wind mitigation report to your insurance provider for the discounts or credits to which you’re entitled.

Turn to an Experienced New Orleans Insurance Claims Attorney for the Help You Need

Ensuring that your home is well protected from hurricane-strength winds can provide you with considerable peace of mind and save you money on your insurance premiums.

If your home has been damaged in a fierce wind storm or hurricane, the trusted New Orleans insurance claims attorneys at Insurance Claim HQ are well prepared to skillfully advocate for an effective and efficient resolution that supports your rights and best interests. Learn more about how we can help you by contacting us today.

Wind Mitigation FAQs

How long do wind mitigation inspection ratings last?

For your wind mitigation inspection to have any bearing on your insurance rates, it must be current, which means it must have been conducted within the last five years.

What is the purpose of windstorm mitigation inspections?

Wind mitigation inspections give you an idea of how well-protected your home is from wind damage and can save you money on your homeowners’ insurance.

Are wind mitigation inspections worth the cost?

Because these inspections can alert you to potential risk factors in relation to wind damage and can save you money on your insurance premiums in the long run, they are generally considered well worth the expense.