The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP) is a state initiative designed to help homeowners strengthen their residences against severe weather conditions, particularly hurricanes. By providing grants of up to $10,000, the program enables homeowners to upgrade their roofs to the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard, thereby enhancing the durability and resilience of homes across Louisiana. cite turn0search0
Understanding the FORTIFIED™ Roof Standard
Developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard is a construction and re-roofing program aimed at strengthening homes against specific types of severe weather, including high winds, hail, hurricanes, and even tornadoes. Key features of this standard include:
- Enhanced Roof Attachment: Utilization of ring-shank nails instead of common smooth nails to nearly double the roof’s strength against wind.
- Sealed Roof Deck: Implementation of sealing techniques to prevent water intrusion in case the roof covering is damaged.
- Impact-Resistant Shingles: Optional use of stronger shingles capable of withstanding hail up to two inches in diameter.
These measures collectively contribute to a more robust roofing system, capable of withstanding winds up to 150 mph and reducing the likelihood of significant damage during severe weather events. citeturn0search0
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the LFHP grant, homeowners must meet the following requirements:
- Primary Residence: The property must be the homeowner’s primary residence, verified through a homestead exemption.
- Insurance Coverage: An active residential insurance policy with wind coverage is mandatory. For homes located in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas, proof of a flood insurance policy is also required.
- Property Condition: The home should be in good repair and eligible for a FORTIFIED™ designation as determined by a certified FORTIFIED™ Evaluator.
It’s important to note that new construction homes, condominiums, and mobile homes are not eligible for this program. citeturn0search0
Application Process
The LFHP accepts applications during specific periods, often announced in advance. Interested homeowners should follow these steps:
- Create a Profile: Visit the LFHP website to create a user profile.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for announcements to receive notifications about upcoming grant application dates.
- Submit Application: During open application periods, submit your application promptly, as slots are limited and often filled quickly.
The program has transitioned to a lottery system for grant allocation, ensuring a fair distribution among applicants. citeturn0search11
Financial Considerations
While the grant provides up to $10,000, homeowners are responsible for any costs exceeding this amount. Additionally, homeowners must cover the expense of a FORTIFIED™ Evaluation, typically ranging between $300 and $500. The grant funds are paid directly to contractors upon completion of the roofing project. citeturn0search0
Benefits of Upgrading to a FORTIFIED™ Roof
Upgrading to a FORTIFIED™ Roof offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Protection: Significantly reduces the risk of roof damage during severe weather events.
- Insurance Discounts: Many insurers offer premium discounts for homes meeting the FORTIFIED™ standard, with some discounts exceeding 50% off the wind and hail portion of homeowners’ premiums. citeturn0search2
- Increased Property Value: Homes with fortified roofs may have higher market value due to their enhanced resilience.
Conclusion
The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program represents a proactive approach to mitigating the impact of severe weather on residential properties. By participating in this program, homeowners can enhance their home’s resilience, potentially lower insurance costs, and contribute to a more disaster-resistant community. For more information and to apply, visit the official LFHP website. citeturn0search0