Wind mitigation & insurance discounts
In Florida, homeowner insurance premiums are heavily influenced by the wind mitigation inspection. The form is called OIR-B1-1802, and it documents the building features that reduce storm risk. Windows and doors are one of the biggest line items.
What the form rewards
- Opening protection. The inspector grades whether every glazed opening — windows, doors, skylights, garage doors — is protected to FBC standards. Partial protection earns much less credit than full protection.
- Impact rating level. Hurricane (large-missile) impact rating earns the strongest credit. Basic (small-missile, upper-story-only) rating earns less. No protection earns nothing.
- Roof, roof-to-wall, and secondary water resistance. Not windows, but listed here because they interact with the same form.
The "all openings" rule that catches people
Many homeowners install impact windows but forget about the garage door, the back door, skylights, or one bathroom window. Insurance credits for opening protection generally require all glazed openings to be protected. One unprotected window can knock the credit down significantly. Plan the project as a whole envelope, not a single elevation.
How much can you save?
Realistic ranges in Florida vary by carrier, ZIP code, and policy. We've seen full opening protection credits reduce the wind portion of the premium by anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand per year on coastal addresses. Combined with a hip-roof shape and properly nailed roof deck, the cumulative credit can be the difference between staying with a private carrier and ending up on Citizens.
Getting the inspection
After your replacement is permitted, installed, and inspected, hire a licensed wind mitigation inspector to complete the OIR-B1-1802. Keep the form on file — it's good for five years and is the document your insurance carrier uses to update your policy. We'll provide the Florida Product Approval documents your inspector will ask for.