The Truth About Wind Mitigation Reports in Florida Real Estate

What Is a Wind Mitigation Report — and Why Does It Matter in Florida?

If you’re buying a home in Florida — especially in Polk County or other high-wind zones — your insurance company is going to care about how well your home can stand up to hurricanes and storms.

That’s where the wind mitigation inspection comes in.

Whether you’re buying your first home, updating your policy, or trying to lower your premium, understanding what wind mitigation is — and how it can save you money — is essential.

🌪️ What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

A wind mitigation inspection evaluates how well a home is built to withstand high winds, specifically hurricane-force conditions. The report focuses on seven key areas of the home’s construction:

1. Roof covering — What material is it made of, and how old is it?

2. Roof deck attachment — How well is the roof deck secured to the structure?

3. Roof-to-wall connection — Are clips, straps, or toe nails used to connect roof to walls?

4. Roof shape — Hip roofs are generally more wind-resistant than gable roofs.

5. Secondary water resistance — Is there an additional barrier under the roof to prevent leaks?

6. Opening protection — Are windows and doors impact-resistant or shutter-ready?

7. Building code compliance — Was the home built under newer Florida building codes?

✅ Schedule Your Inspection to find out how your property stacks up — and whether it qualifies for insurance discounts.

💸 How a Wind Mitigation Report Can Save You Money

Most Florida insurance providers offer discounts for homes that demonstrate wind-resistant features.

Here’s how it works:

• After completing the inspection, we send a standardized form (OIR-B1-1802) directly to your insurer.

• If your home qualifies, you could save hundreds — or even thousands — on your annual premium.

It’s one of the few inspections that pays for itself in just a year or two.

🎥 Curious what a wind mitigation inspection looks like? Check out our Inspection Videos.

🏠 Who Needs a Wind Mitigation Report?

Short answer: almost everyone in Florida.

But you’ll especially want one if:

• You’re buying a home more than 10 years old

• You’re renewing or shopping around for a new insurance policy

• You’ve recently upgraded your roof, windows, or doors

• You’re moving into a home in Lakeland, Winter Haven, Auburndale, or any storm-prone part of Polk County

Even if your home doesn’t qualify for all discounts, partial credits are common — and they add up.

🔧 Can You Improve Your Wind Mitigation Score?

Absolutely. Some of the most common upgrades that improve wind resistance (and boost your insurance savings) include:

• Installing hurricane clips or straps on roof-to-wall connections

• Replacing old shingles with impact-rated roofing

• Adding secondary water resistance underlayment

• Replacing windows with impact glass or storm shutters

If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term, these upgrades not only reduce your risk — they also make your property more attractive to buyers down the line.

🏡  Looking to upgrade or move? Find Your Lakeland Home

Wind Mitigation Is a Smart Move

In Florida, protecting your home from storms isn’t optional — and neither is smart planning. A wind mitigation inspection is one of the easiest, most cost-effective steps you can take to lower insurance costs and safeguard your investment.

Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or renewing, don’t leave wind protection to guesswork.

✅ Schedule Your Inspection with our certified team
🎥 Watch Our Inspection Videos to see what we look for
🏡 Find Your Lakeland Home with confidence