A wind mitigation inspection is one of the least disruptive inspections your home will ever have. There is no plumbing to shut off, no systems to test, and no need to move furniture. The inspector is focused on a specific set of construction features, and for most homes the entire process takes somewhere between 30 and 45 minutes depending on the size of the property. A little preparation on your end goes a long way toward making things run smoothly.
Before the Inspection
At some point prior to your inspection — whether at booking or upon arrival — you will be asked to sign a standard inspection agreement. This is a routine document that outlines the scope of what the inspection covers and what it does not. Read it over, ask any questions you have, and keep a copy for your records.
Beyond that, here are the most important things to have ready:
- Know where your attic access is. The inspector will need to get into the attic to photograph how your roof decking is attached and how the roof structure connects to the walls. If you have pull-down stairs, a hatch in a closet, or a scuttle in the garage ceiling, know where it is and make sure it is accessible. A very common issue — particularly for snowbirds who are out of the area when the inspection takes place — is a car parked directly beneath the garage attic access. If a neighbor, property manager, or someone else is letting the inspector in, make sure there is a way to move any vehicles that might be blocking access. Otherwise the inspector may not be able to complete that portion of the inspection.
- Have your permits or documentation handy if you have them. If your roof has been replaced, you’ve added shutters, your windows or doors have been upgraded, or your garage door has been updated, having any related permits or invoices available can be helpful. Public permit portals are not always up to date, and having paperwork on hand can save time if there is any difficulty pulling records. One common issue with rated garage doors is over time the wind load label stating the door’s rating may have fallen off due to age, heat & humidity. If you know your door is a rated door and the label is missing, having the original invoice on hand is a valid substitute. If you do not have that, contact the original installer, they most likely have a copy on file.
- Unlock any gates or exterior access points. The inspector will need to walk the perimeter of your home. If you have a fenced yard with a gate, pool cage or lanai screen doors make sure they are unlocked and accessible before they arrive.
- Disable any exterior alarms if applicable. If you have sensors on gates, screen enclosures, or exterior doors, make sure those are disarmed so the inspector can move around freely without triggering them.