On average, a wind mitigation inspection costs between $75 and $150, with most people paying around $100.
Most homeowners spend between $85 and $125 on wind mitigation inspection costs, but the average is $100. It’s a simple process that involves an inspector visiting your house and checking how well your windows, doors, roof, walls, and garage can withstand strong winds.
If you live in a windy area or a hurricane zone, you might get a discount on your homeowners insurance premium by passing a wind mitigation inspection (also known as a windstorm mitigation inspection). Below, we dive into the factors that impact the price and offer tips to help you save on your inspection.
The price of a wind mitigation inspection will depend on a few factors, including where you live and whether or not you purchase other services from your inspection company. For example, some businesses offer discounts for getting a wind mitigation inspection as part of the cost of a home inspection.
The size of your home will play a role in how much your wind mitigation inspection costs. The larger your home is, the longer it will take for the inspector to complete the inspection. Naturally, they’ll charge more for the extra time.
You don’t need to buy any materials for a wind mitigation inspection. However, if the inspector says that you need to make improvements (for example, roof repairs), material costs may be associated with whatever upgrades they recommend.
A wind mitigation inspection is charged as a flat fee, so no labor costs are involved. But again, you might face labor expenses if you have to upgrade your home as a result of what the inspector finds. For example, if you need to hire a local roofer for a roof replacement, you can expect to pay between $45 and $75 per hour.
The inspector may suggest making specific repairs if your home isn’t well-equipped to withstand powerful winds. These costs will depend on the type of improvements you need. For example, if you need to repair a window, costs range between $180 and $1,000 per window. Roof repairs, on the other hand, cost between $400 and $1,900.
| Repairs | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Window | $180–$1,000 per window |
| Roof | $400–$1,900 |
Maybe you didn’t pass your first inspection, but you made improvements based on the recommendations you received. To qualify for insurance discounts, you may need to undergo another inspection. Some companies offer a retesting discount.
The cost of your wind mitigation inspection will also depend on where you live. In areas prone to severe weather and high winds, inspections may be in higher demand and thus cost more. However, some states offer incentives and home insurance discounts for homeowners who install wind mitigation features on their homes.
As mentioned, you can buy a standalone wind mitigation inspection or bundle it with similar services (often for a discount). A combined wind mitigation and four-point inspection costs $150 to $200.
If you want, you may be able to talk to your home inspector and see if they’re willing to create a custom package that includes inspections for other storm-proofing projects, like storm windows and doors. However, these prices vary from pro to pro. Below are the average costs of common storm-proofing jobs.
| Storm-Proofing Projects | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Storm windows | $12,000 |
| Storm doors | $400 |
| Hurricane shutters | $3,700 |
Wind mitigation inspections need to be performed by certified professionals, so unfortunately, it’s not something that you can DIY. However, most wind mitigation inspections cost around $100—and a successful one could help you pay less on your homeowners insurance (so your inspection could pay for itself).
It’s still a good idea to check your home for potential wind problems. If you notice any issues with your roof, windows, or doors, take care of them immediately to prevent wind damage when a storm hits.
"When you hear that a hurricane or tornado is heading your way, minimize the risk of damage during high winds. Protect your home by installing storm shutters, securing siding to your house (most hardware stores sell straps), trimming long tree branches, and bringing in outdoor furniture." Allen Baler, CEO, 4Patriots, Nashville, Tennessee.
Wind mitigation inspection companies have a set rate for inspections on single-family homes. Still, there are a couple of things to try if you’re looking to get the best price.
Your best bet is to shop around and get quotes from different businesses. You can also contact wind mitigation companies and ask if they offer any discounts. Some will knock a few dollars off if you book your inspection online, while others will let you bundle your wind mitigation inspection with another service (like a full home inspection) for a lower price.
Finally, you can avoid the expense of retesting by ensuring your home is as weather-proof as possible before your first inspection. Having features like impact-resistant windows, storm doors, and hurricane shutters will make you more likely to get a passing grade.
It’s worth getting a wind mitigation inspection if you’re trying to save on your homeowners insurance. Plus, passing an inspection proves that your home is in good condition if a tropical storm, hurricane, or windstorm comes your way. Even if you don’t pass, getting a wind mitigation inspection is still helpful because it will let you know which areas to improve to make your home safer.
There are a few key differences between wind mitigation and four-point inspections. Wind mitigation inspections focus on a single aspect of your home (its ability to withstand high winds). In contrast, four-point inspections assess multiple parts of your house (roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC). Despite this, wind mitigation and four-point inspections cost about the same amount.
After you pass your wind mitigation inspection, you’ll receive a report you can send to your insurance company when you request a discount. This report is valid for five years. If you switch providers within that five-year window, your new insurer may ask you to get another inspection if you want a discounted premium.
