IBHS FORTIFIED Program Hits 100K Designations, Enhancing Resilience

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has announced that its FORTIFIED program has reached a significant milestone, surpassing 100,000 designations across the United States. This initiative enhances building resilience to severe weather, with a focus on protection against high winds and wind-driven rain. By fortifying vulnerable areas such as roofs and building exteriors, the program aims to mitigate potential damage.

IBHS President and CEO Roy Wright highlighted that the milestone reflects a growing national commitment to proactive home strengthening. Over half of these designations occurred in the past three years, driven by expanding grant programs, insurance incentives, and increased awareness of disaster mitigation. This is further supported by a University of Alabama study, noting that homes meeting FORTIFIED standards sustained less damage during Hurricane Sally in 2020.

Alabama leads the nation in FORTIFIED designations, bolstered by the Strengthen Alabama Homes grant program. States like North Carolina and Louisiana have launched similar initiatives, while others, including Kentucky, Maine, and Oklahoma, are exploring mitigation strategies. Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple observed increased demand for resilient homes, which can help reduce storm damage and insurance costs. With expansions to include commercial and multifamily buildings, the FORTIFIED program's adoption is set to grow as states integrate its standards into policies and disaster recovery strategies.