March 31, 2026
Starting April 1, 2026, the State of Florida Office of Insurance Regulation is implementing a new version of the Wind Mitigation Inspection Form (OIR-B1-1802). While this update is intended to improve accuracy and consistency across inspections, it will also bring important changes that homeowners, buyers, and real estate agents should understand. When Do the Changes Take Effect? April 1, 2026: All new wind mitigation inspections must use the updated form July 2026: Insurance companies are expected to begin applying credits based on the new form This creates a temporary gap where inspections may be completed, but insurance discounts may not be applied right away. Why Did the Wind Mitigation Form Change? The updated form is designed to standardize inspections, improve accuracy, reduce inconsistencies, and ensure insurance credits are properly supported with documentation, while staying up to date on recent building guidelines and construction. Key Changes to the Wind Mitigation Inspection 1. More Detailed Roof Documentation Inspectors must now document permit dates, product approvals, and installation years. Missing information must be clearly noted. 2. New Wind Zone Classifications Updated classifications based on wind speed zones (ASCE 7-22 standards) require additional research, verification and documentation. 3. New Roof Slope Documentation Requirements Homes with multiple roof slopes must now be calculated to determine if 2/3 of the home has a certain roof slope or not, along with evidence to support the credit. 4. Stricter Roof Deck Attachment Requirements Expanded categories include specific nail spacing, uplift values, and additional system types. 5. Expanded Roof-to-Wall Connection Categories More detailed definitions and stricter requirements for connections require more thorough inspections, as well as categories for retrofitted applications. 6. Updated Secondary Water Resistance Standards Only specific systems qualify, requiring better documentation. 7. More Complex Opening Protection Evaluation A detailed system evaluates all openings, with the weakest protection determining the rating, as well as identifying and documenting any damaged openings. How This Impacts Homeowners and Buyers Delayed Insurance Savings Credits may not be applied until July 2026, affecting insurance quotes and closing expectations. Potential Changes to Credits Some homes may receive different results due to stricter requirements. More Thorough Inspections Expect more photos, more time onsite, and more detailed reports. Why Wind Mitigation Inspection Prices Are Increasing Inspections now require more documentation, more time, and more detailed reporting. As a result, pricing will increase to reflect the additional work involved. What Real Estate Agents Should Know Set expectations early about delayed credits and avoid relying on immediate savings in estimates. Our Recommendation Buyers should not rely on immediate insurance savings. Sellers should prepare for updated requirements. Agents should educate clients early. Final Thoughts The new 2026 wind mitigation form improves accuracy and consistency but introduces short term changes in cost, timing, and expectations. Understanding these changes will help you avoid surprises during your transaction.
