Updated November 4, 2026
Why preparation helps
Inspectors can only mark what they can see and document. If they cannot reach the attic, open the electrical panel or find paperwork, the form may show "unknown" or "no attic access", which can leave potential credits unclaimed. A little prep can make the visit smoother.
Gather your paperwork
- Roof permit and your roofer's paid-in-full invoice or contract. Citizens says permit information is the primary document for roof covering, and paid contracts or invoices can fill in if a permit cannot be found.
- Permits for shutters, impact windows and doors, with product information if you have it.
- Your certificate of occupancy or county property record showing the year built.
- Your current insurance policy and any mitigation form already on file.
- FORTIFIED certificate, if you have one.
Clear the way for a wind mitigation inspection
- Make sure the attic hatch can be reached and opened, and clear stored items near it.
- Unlock gates, garages and sheds. All structures on the property may need attention.
- Have shutters, panels or hardware accessible if they are stored away. Inspectors may need to see that each opening is protected.
- Make sure pets are secured.
Get ready for a 4-point inspection
- Clear the area around the electrical panel so it can be opened. The Citizens form calls for photos of the open panel.
- Make sure the water heater, AC air handler and under-sink areas can be reached.
- Fix obvious problems first: leaks, tripped or broken fixtures, a clogged AC condensate line.
- Gather service records for the AC and water heater.
- Make sure utilities are on.
Check your inspector
For wind mitigation, the signer must be on the list in section 627.711: a licensed home inspector with the hurricane mitigation training, a certified building code inspector, a licensed contractor, engineer or architect, or someone your insurer recognizes. Citizens also states that an authorized inspector must hold an active license of that kind. Ask for the license number and verify it with the state before you book.
On the day
Be there or have a trusted adult present. The homeowner signs the wind mitigation form to confirm an inspection took place and that identification was shown. Ask questions as the inspector goes, and ask when to expect the report.
After the inspection
Read the report and compare it with what you know about your home. If something looks wrong, ask the inspector to correct it before you send it. The wind mitigation form is valid for up to five years if nothing materially changes, so keep a copy somewhere safe.
A quick checklist
- Find permits and invoices for the roof, shutters and windows.
- Clear the attic hatch and the area around the panel.
- Unlock gates, garages and sheds.
- Verify the inspector's license.
- Ask which form version they use.
- Be present or have an adult there to sign.
Do not feel you must do anything dramatic before an inspection. Your inspector documents what is actually there, and nothing here is meant to change what they find.
Be honest on the form
The wind mitigation form is a verification document, and Florida insurers that find evidence of fraud or false statements must report it. Give accurate information and ask your inspector to document the home as it is. Accurate documentation protects you if there is a claim later.
Special situations
Condos, townhomes and homes with detached structures can have different needs. For condos, the building's roof and exterior may be handled by the association, so ask your insurer and the association what documents exist. If you have a detached garage, shed or pool enclosure, ask the inspector whether they will be included. Tenants should ask the owner before scheduling anything.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be home?
Someone should be, since the homeowner signs the wind mitigation form and the inspector may need access to the attic, panel and utilities.
What if I can't find my roof permit?
Citizens' guidelines say a copy of the permit or paid-in-full roof contracts or invoices may be used. Your city or county building department may also have records.
Should I fix things before a 4-point?
Fixing visible hazards first is often sensible. Ask a licensed contractor what is needed.