Wind Mitigation / Opening Protection

Impact Windows vs. Shutters: Opening Protection Guide (2026)

How Question 7 of the OIR-B1-1802 form dictates your association's 2026 insurance discounts.

Executive Summary

  • The "All-or-Nothing" Rule: Every glazed opening must be protected to earn the "A1" maximum credit; a single unprotected window disqualifies the entire building.
  • Laminated vs. Shutters: Both qualify for credits, but 2026 high-rise underwriters prefer impact glass for its passive, "always-on" protection.
  • Beyond Glass: Wind-load rated garage doors and cyclic-tested entry doors are mandatory components of a complete protection system.
  • Product Approval Mandate: Inspectors must verify Florida Product Approval or NOA numbers for all systems to satisfy 2026 audit requirements.

Achieving the "A1" Rating

In 2026, the high cost of property insurance in Florida makes the Opening Protection credit essential. By verifying that 100% of your community's glass is "Large Missile" impact-rated, you can unlock premium reductions of up to 35%.

Comparison chart of Florida wind mitigation opening protection: Impact windows (passive), accordion shutters (active), and hurricane panels (removable) for 2026 insurance credits.

Why Underwriters Prioritize Impact Glass

The primary reason for credit denial in 2026 isn't the quality of the shutter, but the failure to deploy it correctly

author avatar
Eric Dixon