When you live in Tampa, Florida, wind mitigation isn’t just a smart move, it’s a necessity. With storm seasons becoming more unpredictable each year, protecting your home means safeguarding both your family and your finances.

What Is a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

A wind mitigation inspection evaluates how well your home can withstand high winds and storms. These inspections assess key construction details like:

• Roof shape and type

• How the roof is fastened to the home (nail spacing, clips, straps)

• Roof decking and underlayment materials

• Secondary water resistance layers

• Opening protection (such as rated shutters or impact windows)

Why It Matters for Florida Homeowners

Homes that pass a wind mitigation inspection, or score well, often qualify for reduced insurance premiums. Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts for homes with documented wind-resistant features, especially roofing improvements.

The Role of Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense during high-wind events. Here’s how roof construction affects your mitigation score:

✅ Roof-to-Wall Connections

Modern roof systems use hurricane straps or clips that anchor the trusses to the walls, reducing the risk of uplift during storms.

✅ Nail Type & Spacing

Nails spaced closer together (e.g. 6″ on center) and installed with high-velocity nail guns create a stronger bond between the decking and trusses.

✅ Roof Shape

Hip-style roofs (sloped on all four sides) are more wind-resistant than gable roofs due to reduced uplift forces.

✅ Decking & Underlayment

Upgraded decking (7/16″ OSB or better) and peel-and-stick secondary water barriers help prevent water intrusion and roof failure.

If your roof is over 20 years old or has visible signs of wear, replacing it with a modern, code-compliant system may not only improve storm protection, it could also lower your insurance premiums after a successful wind mitigation inspection.

A Quick Note on Opening Protection

While this post focuses on roofing, it’s worth noting that your wind mitigation form also includes a section for opening protection. Features like impact-rated windows or storm shutters can add to your total discount and improve safety during hurricanes. We’ll be covering this in a follow-up blog soon.

Summary Points

✔ Florida wind mitigation inspections review roof construction and connections
✔ New roofs with modern fasteners, materials, and shapes perform better in storms
✔ A new roof can qualify you for substantial homeowner insurance discounts
✔ Opening protection (like impact-rated windows) is also included in the inspection
✔ Always get a new inspection after major roof or opening upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a wind mitigation inspection after a new roof?
Yes, your insurer won’t apply discounts until you provide a new inspection form showing compliant upgrades.

Q: What’s the average insurance savings from a wind mitigation inspection?
Many Florida homeowners save 15% to 30% on their windstorm premium after a qualified inspection, depending on insurer and improvements.

Q: Do I need to replace my entire roof to qualify?
Not always. In some cases, retrofits like adding clips or secondary water barriers can help, but a full re-roof often yields the biggest benefits.