Need a Wind Mitigation Inspection for Your Miami Home?

A wind mitigation inspection, also known as a windstorm inspection, is an assessment conducted to evaluate a building’s ability to withstand high winds and severe weather conditions, particularly in hurricane-prone areas. Here’s what typically includes a wind mitigation inspection:

1. **Roof Covering**:

- Inspection of the roof material and its attachment.

- Verification that the roof meets current building codes and standards.

2. **Roof-to-Wall Attachment**:

- Examination of how the roof is secured to the walls of the house.

- Evaluation of the types of connectors used (e.g., clips, straps, or bolts).

3. **Roof Deck Attachment**:

- Inspection of how the roof deck is attached to the trusses or rafters.

- Assessment of the type and spacing of nails or other fasteners used.

4. **Roof Shape**:

- Evaluation of the roof design (e.g., hip roof, gable roof).

- Hip roofs are considered more wind-resistant than gable roofs.

5. **Secondary Water Resistance (SWR)**:

- Checking for the presence of a secondary water barrier to prevent water intrusion if the roof covering is blown off.

6. **Opening Protection**:

- Examination of windows, doors, skylights, and garage doors for impact resistance and proper installation.

- Verification of shutters, impact-resistant glass, or other protective measures.

7. **Gable End Bracing**:

- Inspection of the bracing on gable ends (if applicable) to ensure they are adequately reinforced against wind pressures.

8. **Age of Construction**:

- Consideration of the building’s age in relation to the current building codes and wind mitigation features implemented at the time of construction.

9. **Attic Ventilation**:

- Checking for proper ventilation that can help reduce wind pressure on the roof during a storm.

10. **Documentation**:

- Photos and written documentation of the features inspected.

- A detailed report is provided to the homeowner and, often, the insurance company.

These inspections are typically performed by licensed inspectors, engineers, or contractors. The findings can lead to significant savings on homeowners' insurance premiums, as properties with effective wind mitigation features are considered less risky by insurers.