Modern home buyers, especially first-timers and condo owners, are demanding more protection against the wind exposure of their properties.
The concept of wind mitigation, yet, still eludes many. There is still confusion surrounding what it is, whether it’s mandatory for building and pest permits, and how it benefits you as a homeowner.
What you’ll uncover with this guide is a thorough explanation of wind mitigation inspections and all the advantages your new home will reap from undergoing one. Read on.
What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
A wind mitigation inspection is an assessment of a home’s ability to withstand strong winds. It is often conducted for home insurance purposes. Insurance companies need this inspection to provide coverage to homeowners.
During the inspection, an expert assesses the home’s structures, especially the roof condition. Typically, this home inspector assesses features such as construction types, roof shapes, and wind-resistant features. After examination, the inspector will give a report detailing his findings.
The inspector will give recommendations to improve the home’s wind mitigation ability. This inspection can allow homeowners to show their insurers that they have taken proactive steps. This is to improve the wind resistance of their homes. This can lead to lower home insurance costs.
It usually takes one to two hours, depending on the size and complexity of the subject property. The result of the inspection will be a report that outlines the current risk of the property. They will also report what areas need improvement to reduce that risk.
Qualified Persons to Conduct Inspection
A licensed engineer, architect, or contractor with specialized knowledge must perform the windstorm mitigation inspection. These qualified persons will measure and visualize the area. They will identify wind resistance features.
Then, they will make recommendations that would improve the structure’s resistance against high winds. Depending on the state, a certificate will provide to prove the efficacy of the home inspection. This is useful to get discounted insurance premiums as well as to ensure the safety of a structure.
Inspectors also need to prove their skill with specialized equipment for the inspections. They must know how to operate a thermal imaging device or a weather radar. Wind mitigation inspections are a valuable tool for property owners, insurers, and local governments. This is to reduce the risk of catastrophic building damage from high winds.
Wind mitigation inspectors will look at the following areas:
- year your home was built
- the geometry of the roof
- covering of the roof
- roof deck
- opening protection
- waterproofness
Benefits of Wind Mitigation
A wind mitigation inspection can help you save money on your homeowner’s insurance. It can identify aspects of the home’s construction. This will make the home more wind resistant and can qualify homeowners for discounts on their insurance policies based on their home inspection results.
Wind mitigation inspections also help to ensure that the home is up to safety standards in case of a wind storm, resulting in more peace of mind for the homeowner. The discounts available can frequently make the cost of the inspection cheaper than the long-term savings on the homeowner’s insurance policy.
Wind Mitigation Inspection
A wind mitigation inspection evaluates the wind-resistant features of a home. This will help to protect it against wind-related damage. This inspection is important for the safety and security of your home and should have at least every few years.
Speak with a certified inspector today to learn more about the wind mitigation inspection process.
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