If you live in the coastal territories of Charleston County, you should always be aware of possible ways to reduce your homeowners insurance premiums. A large percentage of the annual premium for a homeowners insurance policy, that is inclusive of windstorm and hail coverage, is attributed to the peril of windstorm and hail. Due to the high premiums associated with windstorm and hail coverage, there are significant credits available on homes with specific features present that make them less vulnerable to wind and hail damage.
As per the 2007 Omnibus Coastal Property Insurance Reform Act, homeowners insurance carriers in South Carolina are required to inform customers of wind mitigation credits that can potentially be applied with acceptable proof of features present. A Wind Mitigation Form completed by a licensed contractor, architect, or engineer and submitted to the insurance carrier would determine which (if any) credits are applicable.
Some of the features that will be observed during the wind mitigation inspection are:
- Opening Protection (ex. Storm Shutters, Impact Resistant Glass on all openings, Retrofitted Garage doors, etc.)
- Roof – Deck Attachment
- Roof –To – Wall Connection (ex. Single Straps, Double Straps)
- Secondary Water Resistance (ex. If Felt or Approved layer of protection between the shingles and roof sheathing that mitigate against water damage is present)
- Shape of Roof
There are fees associated with enlisting a qualified professional to complete the wind mitigation forms and there are no guarantees that the potential credits applied to your homeowners insurance policy will outweigh the cost of having the wind mitigation form completed.
A good time to complete a wind mitigation form is when buying a home. The home inspector hired to inspect the property can complete the wind mitigation form during the inspection, usually for a small fee if requested and provided with the document prior to the inspection. Ask your agent for a wind mitigation form when you begin the quoting process.
If you have any questions pertaining to wind mitigation credits, one of McKay Insurance’s experienced agents would be happy to speak with you. Call our office at 843-881-2229.
Post courtesy of McKay Insurance