Emphasizing Resilient Building Practices for Homeowners in Connecticut

HARTFORD, CT – Industry experts, construction professionals, and representatives from the Connecticut Insurance Department convened to emphasize resilient building practices, particularly highlighting the FORTIFIED Roof standards. This initiative, led by the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of the Connecticut River Region, showcased the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety's (IBHS) FORTIFIED Roof program, which aims to equip homeowners to better withstand severe weather conditions.

The program sets construction benchmarks that enhance home durability against extreme weather, like high winds. Attendees gained insights into the FORTIFIED certification process and other resilient construction methodologies, receiving resources to aid in implementing these enhancements. Connecticut Insurance Department Commissioner Josh Hershman highlighted the significance of providing communities with means to mitigate risk, stating, “FORTIFIED standards offer a comprehensive guide for homeowners, builders, and communities to fortify properties against weather adversities.”

Assistant Deputy Commissioner George Bradner emphasized the necessity for proactive risk reduction due to increasing severe weather patterns, noting that roofing standards provide contractors a clear protocol to enhance residential safety. Eric Person, CEO of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association, underscored the critical role of the local building sector in implementing these standards to protect communities. This initiative is part of the Department's strategy to bolster resilience statewide, which includes the Severe Weather Mitigation and Resiliency Advisory Council's efforts and a Climate Risk Mapping Tool to help residents understand risks related to natural events like flooding.