Wind Mitigation Credits in Florida (Explained)

Florida homeowners face some of the highest insurance premiums in the nation, often more than double the national average. With hurricanes and severe weather driving costs higher, it can feel like savings are out of reach. Fortunately, state law provides a way for families to reduce costs without sacrificing coverage.

Wind mitigation credits are discounts applied to the windstorm portion of a homeowners insurance policy. These credits reward homeowners who have added protective features to their property, such as:

  • Reinforced roof-to-wall connections (hurricane straps or clips)
  • Stronger roof deck attachment with upgraded nails or decking
  • Hip-shaped roofs, which withstand wind better than gable roofs
  • Secondary water resistance membranes under roofing materials
  • Impact-rated windows, storm shutters, and reinforced doors

By lowering the risk of wind damage, these features also lower your premiums. Insurers are required by Florida law to apply these credits once they are properly documented through an inspection.

How to Claim Wind Mitigation Credits in Florida (2025)

To qualify, you’ll need a licensed wind mitigation inspection performed by an approved professional such as a general contractor, engineer, architect, or certified home inspector.

The inspector will:

  • Review your roof, openings, and structure
  • Document qualifying features with photos and notes
  • Complete the Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form (OIR-B1-1802)

Once you submit this form to your insurer, credits are applied to your policy. Most inspections cost between $75 and $150, but the savings often pay for themselves within the first year.

How Much Can Florida Homeowners Save in 2025?

Savings vary depending on your home’s construction, features, and insurer. On average, Florida homeowners save between $100 and $600 annually, and some households report discounts of 30–40% on the windstorm portion of their premium.

Examples of potential savings include:

  • Adding impact windows may reduce annual costs by $300–$500.
  • Sealing your roof deck could save 10%–15% on wind coverage.
  • Switching from a gable to a hip roof might lower your premium by 20%.

Since credits typically last for five years, the long-term benefit often outweighs the one-time inspection cost many times over.

Step-by-Step: Claiming Your Wind Mitigation Discounts

The process is straightforward, but timing matters. Here’s how Florida homeowners can maximize their savings in 2025:

  • Schedule a certified inspection — Apply through the My Safe Florida Home program if possible to receive it for free.
  • Review the report carefully — Ensure all qualifying features are documented on the OIR-B1-1802 form.
  • Submit the form to your insurer — By law, they must apply the credits.
  • Apply for grants — Use matching funds to add upgrades like impact windows, doors, or roof improvements.
  • Confirm savings at renewal — Credits appear on your policy’s premium breakdown.

The My Safe Florida Home Grant Program

In 2025, Florida expanded the My Safe Florida Home program with $280 million in new funding to help families afford wind mitigation upgrades. This program offers:

  • A free wind mitigation inspection
  • Up to $10,000 in matching grants for approved upgrades
  • Full funding for qualifying low-income households

This means homeowners can strengthen their property, qualify for more credits, and receive financial help to make improvements affordable.

Why Work With E&L Insurance

Navigating inspections, forms, and grant applications can be confusing. At E&L Insurance, we make it easier by:

  • Referring licensed inspectors who know what to look for
  • Reviewing your policy to make sure discounts are applied correctly
  • Helping you apply for My Safe Florida Home grants
  • Comparing multiple insurers to maximize your coverage and savings

As an independent agency, our goal is to advocate for you—not the insurance companies.

Timing Matters

It’s important to act before your next renewal. If you wait until after your policy renews, credits may not apply until the following term—meaning you could miss out on a full year of savings. Scheduling an inspection now ensures discounts are in place when your next premium is calculated.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Wind mitigation credits are one of the most powerful ways for Florida homeowners to cut costs on insurance in 2025. Combined with state grant programs and a stabilizing market, the opportunity to save has never been better.

Contact E&L Insurance today for a free inspection referral and policy review before your next renewal. Don’t wait and risk missing out on a full year of discounts—let us help you strengthen your home and lower your premiums.

FAQs About Wind Mitigation Credits in Florida

How long do wind mitigation credits last in Florida?
Credits generally last five years, after which a new inspection may be required to keep them in place.

Can I get wind mitigation credits without making upgrades?
Yes. If your home already has qualifying features, you can earn credits by documenting them through an inspection. Upgrades are not required, but they may increase your savings.

Does every insurer honor wind mitigation credits?
Yes. Florida law requires all insurers to recognize and apply credits when verified by a licensed inspection on the official OIR-B1-1802 form.