Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about the Louisiana wind mitigation program, what we document, and how to get your discounts. To schedule, call Trisha at 504-439-2860.
Is this a new program?
It was created by the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) to reward homeowners with properties that should experience less severe damage claims in high wind events. The program went into effect January 1, 2009. Even older homes that have not been renovated often have some items that qualify for wind mitigation credits or discounts.
Do I have to change my insurance company or agent to get the discounts?
No, but you do have to provide your agent or company with a Louisiana Hurricane Loss Mitigation Survey Form (Wind Mitigation Survey) for the credits or discounts. You must take the initiative.
What determines the discounts?
Architectural design, construction techniques, shape and slope of the roof, quality of shingles, window and door protection, and location of the property.
What is a Hip Roof and what is a Gable Roof?
All sides of a Hip Roof slope to the walls, and a Gable Roof has some walls that rise to a triangle.
Does the quality of the shingles count towards discounts?
Yes, many insurers give discounts for Class F, G, and H shingles but not standard grade shingles. See examples below.
How do I get the discounts?
The property must have some of the wind mitigation characteristics listed in the Louisiana Hurricane Loss Mitigation Survey Form. The form must be completed and certified by a registered Wind Mitigation Surveyor, licensed architect, licensed professional engineer, or Code Enforcement Officer, and those individuals must be registered with the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council (LUCCC).
Can a general contractor or licensed home inspector certify the state form?
No, only those listed above and who are registered with the LUCCC.
What are some of the items that can get discounts?
Shape of the roof, a hip roof design is best. Quality of the shingles and a secondary water barrier. Location, developed areas are best. Hurricane straps. Certified window and door protection, such as shutters or impact rated windows.
Can I get a discount for a gable roof?
Yes, if it is properly braced. This must be determined by the surveyor.
What is a secondary barrier or intrusion system?
A secondary barrier or intrusion system is designed to prevent water from entering the home through the roof should the shingles and felt paper be blown away. This is accomplished in three ways: a) On top of roof deck: Approximately 5 inch wide strips of self-adhering bitumen flashing tape installed over all joints in the plywood or OSB roof deck. This would not be compatible with dimensional lumber roof decks.
b) On the underside of the roof deck: Sprayed-on closed cell foam insulation applied at all joints in the plywood or OSB roof deck, including at trusses or rafters.
c) On top of roof deck: Installing self-adhering bitumen sheets over the entire roof deck. This would be compatible with dimensional lumber, plywood, and OSB roof decks. This is the best but most expensive method.
Are all shutters acceptable?
Only those that have passed certification tests. This must be determined by the surveyor.
I have quality insulated windows certified for hurricane winds, do they qualify?
Generally no, they must be rated to withstand wind borne debris in hurricane winds. This must be determined by the surveyor.
I have plywood covers for my windows, do they qualify?
Only if there is a permanent attachment system installed on the exterior walls. Plywood does protect windows, but most carriers do not award credits for it, and criteria and discount policies vary by carrier.
To schedule your survey, call Trisha at 504-439-2860. Learn more About Us and return to Home.
