As of April 1, 2026, the state rolled out a new version of the inspection form used to calculate insurance discounts. On paper, it looks like a simple update. In reality, it changes how homes are evaluated, documented, and even priced for insurance.
So what’s actually different. And why should you care?
New Wind Mitigation Form OIR-B1-1802 (Rev. 04/26).
The updated OIR-B1-1802 (Rev. 04/26) replaces a version that had been in place for over a decade. That older form was built around past building practices. This new one reflects how homes are built today and how insurers assess risk now.
The goal is simple. Reduce guesswork. Increase accuracy. Make sure every discount is backed by real proof.
That last part is where things start to shift.
The Biggest Change. Proof Is Everything
Before, some inspections left room for interpretation. Now, that gap is closing fast.
Inspectors must support almost every answer with solid evidence. That means more photos, clearer images, and better records. If something cannot be proven, it often will not count.
This especially affects key features like:
- Impact windows and doors
- Roof coverings
- Roof-to-wall connections
In short, if your home has upgrades but no documentation, you might not see the savings you expect.
Roof Inspection Requirements in the New Wind Mitigation Form
Roofing has always been a major factor in wind mitigation. Now it gets even more attention.
The new form digs deeper into:
- Permit history and installation dates
- Product approvals and materials used
- New categories for modern materials like synthetic shingles
Even roof design plays a bigger role. Homes with multiple slopes now require calculations to determine how much of the structure qualifies for certain credits.
This adds time to inspections, but it also removes a lot of gray areas.
Building Codes Finally Catch Up
Not all homes are built the same. And now the form reflects that more clearly.
There are updated questions tied to construction year and building codes, especially for homes built after major code changes in the mid-2000s.
This matters because newer construction often qualifies for better discounts. But again, it has to be documented properly.
A Small Detail That Can Change Your Discount
One of the most overlooked updates is permit information.
Including the permit number and application date is now critical, especially for roof replacements. Insurance companies use this to decide how much of a discount you qualify for.
Missing or incomplete permit data can mean leaving money on the table.
New Rules. New Timeline
Here’s where things can get confusing.
- April 1, 2026: All new inspections must use the updated form
- Around July 2026: Insurance companies begin applying discounts based on the new format
That creates a short window where you might complete an inspection but not see immediate savings on your policy.
It’s temporary, but it can affect buying decisions and insurance quotes in the meantime.
What This Means for Homeowners: Wind Mitigation Credits in 2026
Expect a more thorough process from start to finish.
Inspections will take longer. Reports will be more detailed. And yes, prices for inspections may increase to match the extra work involved.
There is also a chance your results could change. Some homes may qualify for better credits. Others may see fewer, simply because the standards are stricter now.
What Buyers and Agents Need to Watch
If you are buying or selling a home, timing matters more than ever.
Insurance savings may not show up right away. That can affect monthly cost estimates and closing expectations.
Agents should prepare clients early. Buyers should avoid counting on immediate discounts. Sellers should make sure their home’s documentation is ready before listing.
So, Is This a Good Thing?
In the long run, yes.
This update brings more consistency and fairness to the system. It rewards homes that are truly built or upgraded to withstand Florida’s weather.
But in the short term, it demands more effort from everyone involved. More proof. More detail. More planning.
What You Should Do Next
The new wind mitigation form is not just paperwork. It is a shift in how homes are evaluated and insured in Florida.
If you are planning an inspection soon, the best move is simple. Get your documents in order. Work with a qualified inspector. And understand that details now make all the difference.
At Home Inspection Halley, we make that process simple. With over 21 years of experience and up-to-date knowledge of current codes, our team delivers accurate, reliable inspections you can count on.
When it comes to your home and your transaction, you want it done right the first time. That is where we come in.
