At The Ward Group, we are proactively helping our clients reduce their total cost of homeownership.
Insurance increases:
Up to 42% in recent years
Potential savings:
$2,000–$2,700/year
~$200/month
Timeline:
48 hours: quotes
30 days: policy change
60 days: payment adjustment
Inspection Guidelines for Insurance Requirements
Inspections are often requested because insurance companies base pricing on the condition, age, and safety of the property.The type of inspection needed often depends on the age of the home.
For homes that are 20 years or older, most insurance companies will recommend both a 4-point inspection and a wind mitigation inspection. These help verify the condition of major systems like the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, while also identifying features that may qualify for discounts.
For homes under 20 years old, a wind mitigation inspection is usually sufficient. In some cases, insurance providers may simply request the ages of key components such as the roof, HVAC system, and water heater instead of requiring a full 4-point inspection.
It’s also important to understand how long these inspections remain valid. A 4-point inspection is typically valid for about one year, while a wind mitigation inspection is generally accepted for up to five years. However, if major updates like a new roof have been completed, a new inspection may be required to reflect those changes.
If an inspection is needed, we can help coordinate everything and connect you with trusted professionals to make the process simple and efficient.
My Safe Florida Home:
This is a state-backed program designed to help Florida homeowners strengthen their homes while lowering their insurance costs.
The way it works is simple: the program provides a free home inspection to identify areas where your property can be improved to better withstand storms, such as roof upgrades, impact windows, or improved openings protection. Based on that inspection, you’ll receive recommendations for improvements that could qualify you for insurance discounts.
If you choose to move forward with those upgrades, the state offers a matching grant, meaning for every dollar you spend, the program contributes additional funds toward the improvements, up to certain limits. This can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
The program is currently still accepting applications, but funding is limited and tends to fill up quickly, so it’s something worth exploring sooner rather than later. Click here to for more information.
That includes helping you reduce the cost of owning your home.
Ready to talk strategy? Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply explore your options, now is the time to create a smart plan. Let’s connect and make your next move a success.
