Frequently Asked Questions

Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP) FAQs

What is the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP)?
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.

What is the FORTIFIED Roof standard?
The wind mitigation standard adopted by the LFHP is known as the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard. Based on decades of research by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), FORTIFIED is a voluntary construction and re-roofing program designed to strengthen homes against specific types of severe weather such as high winds, hail, hurricanes, and even tornados.

When will the grant program open?
Grant lottery registration periods will open periodically. Those interested in the program may sign up for announcements about upcoming grant application dates.

How do I apply?
Homeowners must visit www.ldi.la.gov/fortifyhomes to create a profile in the LFHP system. This can be done at any time. Once the homeowner has created a profile, they can sign up for announcements about upcoming grant application dates. Grant lottery registration periods will open periodically.

How can I get a FORTIFIED Roof without a grant? There are two ways: First, you can self-fund the project by contacting a certified Evaluator. Second, you can ask your agent to add the FORTIFIED endorsement to your insurance policy, allowing your insurance company to replace your roof to the FORTIFIED standard when it is damaged in a covered event.

What types of homes are eligible?
Most primary residences, including duplexes and similar structures, are eligible for the program. New construction homes, condominiums and mobile homes are not eligible.

What requirements must a homeowner meet to be eligible?

• Only eligible for primary residence with verified homestead exemption
• Must have active residential insurance policy with wind coverage
• If in a Special Flood Hazard Area (FEMA designated), must provide proof of flood insurance
• Home must be in good repair and eligible for FORTIFIED Home designation
• Must meet eligibility criteria described in the 2020 FORTIFIED Standard
  
  

What is a FORTIFIED Evaluation?
FORTIFIED™ Evaluators are independent, third-party professionals trained and certified in FORTIFIED™ standard requirements. They document and verify the entire construction process, determine if the home is eligible for upgrade, identify needed work, and continue through completion to confirm proper upgrade. The Evaluator provides a report to IBHS and obtains the FORTIFIED™ Roof certificate. Homeowners pay evaluation fees according to prices set by the Evaluator.

How much is a LFHP grant? The grant covers up to $10,000 in construction costs for the roof upgrade and is paid directly to the contractor upon completion of the project and submission of required paperwork, including the FORTIFIED™ certificate from IBHS. Homeowners pay all other costs including permits, inspections and construction costs beyond the grant amount.

When do I choose a Contractor? Homeowners should confirm there is at least one FORTIFIED™ Contractor available before paying for an Evaluator inspection. During the grant process, you must submit at least three bids from Contractors to the LFHP for review. If you hire a Contractor and begin work before acceptance into the grant program, you will not be eligible for the grant.

Can I receive a grant for a roof that is already being upgraded or recently upgraded?
No, homeowners must apply for and be awarded a grant before selecting a Contractor and beginning construction.

Can the grant be used to help pay for repairs if my roof is damaged?
Yes. The grant can be used to pay the difference between your insurance claim payment and the cost of an upgraded FORTIFIED roof. Homeowners with an open claim or recent claim for roof repair/replacement must disclose this information during the grant process.

What is a FORTIFIED designation certificate?
A FORTIFIED designation is written certification that a home has been built, renovated, or re-roofed according to FORTIFIED standards. The designation certificate is issued by IBHS after reviewing documentation provided by a FORTIFIED Evaluator. This certificate is required to receive LFHP grant funding.

How long does a designation last?
FORTIFIED designations last five years. A simple re-designation inspection through a FORTIFIED Evaluator is typically required to renew for another five-year period. Designation certificates are transferable upon home sale.

How do I receive a discount on my insurance premium after work is complete?
After completion and upgrade to FORTIFIED™ Roof standard, you receive a certificate that can be shared with your insurer for a premium discount. The certificate can be passed to new owners when selling and is good for five years before requiring re-inspection for renewal.

Note: For questions about IBHS FORTIFIED standards, materials, or Certification Process, visit www.fortifiedhome.org for more information.