A windstorm inspection is meant for property that is situated in the coastal areas of the southeastern U.S, such as Miami, Florida. Also known as a windstorm mitigation inspection or wind mitigation inspection, its main purpose is to assess the structure of any house or building for wind damage resistance.
Discounts off an insurance premium will be determined by whether or not the structure is capable of facing the strong winds like those generally produced by thunderstorms and hurricanes, and if the features are up to local construction code.
A wind mitigation can be conducted by a team, or a qualified professional. This official, or team of officials checks the features of the structure that have been displayed to reduce any kind of losses that might occur due to hurricanes. Structural features of the building might include:
- Water Barriers
- Anchoring (Roof to Wall)
- Gable End Overhangs
- Sealed Doorways
- Hurricane Strips
- Ancillary Water Resistance Fence
In Miami, a landowner with wind mitigation insurance has to submit the proper Wind Mitigation Report to their insurer. Available discounts and rebates insurance are authorized are governed by the state law, and adhere to building codes. In the state of Florida, related discounts can amount up to the 47% of the original insurance policy’s premium. In a coastal region like Miami, the state government authorizes a wind mitigation inspection team to verify any construction of any new house or building near the coastline.
Inspection Process
The following steps of the inspection process include:
- Proper Form: A wind mitigation inspection report is prepared by an authorized service provider, with all information presented in Building Code Form 1802.
- Photographic Evidence: It must disclose before and after pictures of the effect of the hurricane or any windstorm.
The following information collected during an inspection procedure includes:
- Construction Period: The year of a home’s construction and related
- Proper Inspection: It is also checked that all the rules and guidelines are followed while constructing a strong building base.
- Rooftop Check: It is also assessed that the rooftop of the house is durable enough to withstand most heavy gusts with minimal damage overall.
- Up to Code: If a building is not up to recent construction, that may be a loss
- Building Features: Related wind resistant features like rooftop deck attachment, roof shape, windows and doors protection are also checked and notice in the Wind mitigation reports for insurance Miami.