About the Fortified Program
What is the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program?
The LFHP grants up to $10,000 for homeowners to upgrade their roofs to the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard set by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). The program will help Louisiana homeowners strengthen their roofs to better withstand hurricane-force winds and other severe weather.
Why should I “Fortify” my roof?
Building codes establish the minimum construction standards required to ensure the safety of those inside a home. Any reputable contractor will build your home or install your roof according to your local building code. However, even in areas where the most up-to-date codes are adopted and enforced, your home can be stronger. By choosing FORTIFIED, you are getting protection that goes beyond even the strictest code. Because of this, the “Fortified” standard requires a series of upgrades that create a system of protection that reduces the risk of storm damage. Such as requiring impact resistant asphalt shingles.
Can I qualify to have my home “Fortified?”
Homeowners are only eligible for their primary residence and must verify they have a homestead exemption if selected for a grant. Homeowners must also have an active residential insurance policy with wind coverage. If they live in a Special Flood Hazard Area as designated by FEMA, they must also provide proof of a flood insurance policy. Contact one of their agents if you are unsure whether you have these coverages. The home must also be in good repair and eligible for a FORTIFIED Home designation as determined by a FORTIFIED™ Evaluation and IBHS. Properties must meet eligibility criteria described in the 2020 FORTIFIED Standard and associated technical documents as published by the IBHS.
What materials are considered “Fortified?”
The IBHS has created minimum requirements for each component of your roofing system. These requirements are listed throughout the fortified documents. You would have to compare the requirements to the standards for each product, but that is time consuming. So instead, we have created a list of products for you that meet or exceed the standard requirements for your fortified roof system. Click Here to view the list, or navigate to the page “Fortified Residential Material List.”
