5 Home Insurance Credits Florida Homeowners Should Know About
If you own a home in Florida, you already know that home insurance premiums can be a major expense, especially with our coastal risks and storm activity. But what many homeowners don’t know is that there are insurance credits available that can save you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars per year.
These credits are typically offered for home improvements that reduce risk, especially when it comes to wind and hurricane damage. Let’s break down the top 5 insurance credits that can make the biggest impact on your Florida home insurance premiums.
1. Wind Mitigation Inspection Credits
A wind mitigation inspection is one of the best first steps you can take to unlock savings. It’s a specialized inspection that evaluates your home’s ability to withstand strong winds, and the results are submitted to your insurance company.
You may qualify for credits for things like:
Roof shape (hip roofs are favored)
Roof covering and age
Roof-to-wall connections (like clips, straps, or 3rd nails)
Secondary water resistance (underlayment)
💡 PRO TIP: Even if your home is older, adding retrofits like the 3rd nail can increase your savings significantly. More on that below!
2. The “Third Nail” Roof-to-Wall Connection Upgrade
This might be the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to Florida home insurance credits.
If your trusses or rafters are attached to the wall with clips or straps, adding a third nail per connection creates a much stronger bond — reducing the risk of your roof blowing off during a hurricane.
🛠️ The upgrade typically costs $500–$1,000, but it can result in savings of up to 20–30% on your windstorm portion of your policy.
3. Impact-Rated Windows and Doors
Swapping standard windows for impact-rated glass doesn’t just protect your family from flying debris — it can make a huge difference on your premiums.
When your home has all openings protected — including:
Windows
Exterior doors
Garage doors
Skylights
You may qualify for one of the highest levels of wind mitigation credit available.
💰 While the upfront cost can be significant, these upgrades can:
Lower your insurance premiums
Add resale value
Increase energy efficiency
4. Hurricane Shutters
If impact windows aren’t in your current budget, hurricane shutters are the next best option. To qualify for maximum insurance credit, they must be rated and installed on all openings, not just some.
Types of shutters that may qualify:
Accordion shutters
Roll-down shutters
Storm panels
Colonial shutters
🌀 Even manual options can help you unlock valuable wind mitigation credits.
5. Newer Roof or FORTIFIED Roof System
In Florida, your roof age and materials are major factors in your insurance costs. Many insurers charge significantly higher rates for roofs over 10–15 years old.
Consider replacing your roof with:
Architectural shingles with upgraded underlayment
Metal roofing
Or a certified FORTIFIED™ Roof, which meets enhanced standards for storm resistance
Final Thoughts: Small Upgrades, Big Savings
Florida insurance rates aren’t dropping any time soon — but taking control through risk-reducing upgrades can unlock significant savings.
If you’re not sure what your home currently qualifies for, start by scheduling a Wind Mitigation Inspection. It usually costs around $75–$150 and could save you thousands over time.
