Recognizing Resilient Construction Leaders
The Tenth Annual FORTIFIED Awards acknowledge outstanding service providers and non-profits
In a grand celebration of resilience, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) recently held the 10th Annual FORTIFIED Awards. This annual event highlights the extraordinary efforts of 76 service providers and non-profit organizations dedicated to enhancing the safety and resilience of homes and businesses against severe weather events. These awards honor those who have assisted over 100 customers in achieving a FORTIFIED Home™ designation, contributing significantly to the achievements in the field.
The FORTIFIED Standard: A Game-Changer for Homeowners
The FORTIFIED program represents an innovative construction and re-roofing standard that goes above and beyond typical codes. It is grounded in extensive research conducted by IBHS, specifically designed to bolster areas of homes that are particularly vulnerable to severe weather phenomena like high winds and heavy rainfall. With over 75,000 homeowners opting for a FORTIFIED designation, this initiative marks a shift in how we approach home safety. States such as Alabama, North Carolina, and Louisiana are at the forefront of this movement, demonstrating a strong commitment to weather resilience.
One of the compelling elements of the FORTIFIED program is its requirement for third-party verification, ensuring that homes meet the highest standards. Homeowners can even benefit from various insurance incentives and potential tax credits, making this an attractive option for those looking to enhance their properties.
Champions of Resilient Homes
During the awards ceremony, Roy Wright, the IBHS President and CEO, shared insights on the impact of these awards. He noted, "Every month, nearly two thousand homeowners collaborate with dedicated service providers to make their homes more resilient. This partnership not only strengthens individual homes but also fosters more resilient communities, better equipped to face the next storm."
Among the recipients are those who have achieved significant milestones in the FORTIFIED program, such as:
Volume Awards Recognizing Exceptional Contributions
- Diamond Volume Award (2,500+ Designations): Bethel Engineering Inc.
- Crown Volume Award (1,000 - 2,499 Designations): D.R. Horton, Inc.; Fortified Inspections; Knockout Home Inspections; Pilot.
- Crystal Volume Award (500 - 999 Designations): Arcane Inspection Services; Disaster Smart Consulting; HDMK Inspection Services; NC Fortified; Projust Services.
- Spotlight Volume Award (100 - 499 Designations): Accurate Property Inspections; Aiku Construction; Adams Homes; and many others.
Social Media Award Recipients Lead the Way
IBHS also acknowledged FORTIFIED service providers for their outstanding connection with homeowners through social media, making vital information on the FORTIFIED standard accessible. Recipients included Atlantic Roofing Company, Flores & Foley Roofing + Sheet Metal, and several others who creatively engaged with their communities.
The Power of Research and Data
Recent studies, notably one from the Center for Risk and Insurance Research (CRIR) at the University of Alabama, reveal compelling statistics showcasing the efficiency of FORTIFIED homes. Over 40,000 properties affected by Hurricane Sally were analyzed, revealing that homes with the FORTIFIED designation had an impressive 70% decreased likelihood of filing insurance claims compared to those not built to this standard. The research further indicated potential savings exceeding $111 million in claims and over $34 million in deductibles if all homes had adhered to the FORTIFIED Gold standard.
Fred Malik, managing director of the FORTIFIED program at IBHS, emphasized the importance of these awards, stating, "These award recipients champion resilient construction, equipping property owners with the tools necessary to protect their assets from severe weather threats. They are not only strengthening structures but also preparing communities for the future."
About the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety
The mission of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is to conduct scientific research aimed at promoting actions that improve resilience against natural disasters. Their work emphasizes the need for effective solutions for homes and businesses to withstand various threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the FORTIFIED Awards?
The FORTIFIED Awards are an annual recognition of service providers and non-profits that contribute to building resilient homes against severe weather.
How does the FORTIFIED program benefit homeowners?
Homeowners can achieve a FORTIFIED designation, which may lead to insurance incentives or tax credits, encouraging safer and stronger homes.
What organizations have won the FORTIFIED Awards?
Numerous companies, including Bethel Engineering Inc. and D.R. Horton, Inc., have been awarded for their exceptional contributions to the FORTIFIED program.
How does FORTIFIED differ from standard construction?
FORTIFIED standards exceed local codes, focusing on enhancing structural integrity to withstand severe weather events effectively.
Why are the FORTIFIED Awards significant?
These awards highlight the vital role of resilient construction in reducing the impact of natural disasters, reinforcing community safety and preparedness.
