For Immediate Release:
June 17, 2025
Protect Your Home and Lower Your Insurance Premiums
Column by Ashley Scott, Deputy Commissioner of External Affairs and Director of the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program
Oklahoma homeowners know all too well the damage high winds and hail can cause each year. That’s why the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program is a smart investment for your family’s safety and your wallet. This is a new program administered by the Oklahoma Insurance Department. We have already launched two pilot phases, and more ZIP codes will be eligible soon. The program helps homeowners better protect their property against wind damage and severe storms while lowering their insurance premiums.
The program offers qualified homeowners up to $10,000 in grant funding to install wind-resistant roofing systems that meet the FORTIFIED Home™ standard. This standard, developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), goes beyond traditional building codes and can withstand 120+ mph winds and hail 2 inches in diameter. It focuses on strengthening the roof system – the most vulnerable part of your home during a storm – to reduce the risk of costly damage.
Beyond the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is better protected, a FORTIFIED™ roof can lead to real savings. Many insurance companies offer significant discounts on insurance premiums for homes that meet FORTIFIED™ standards. And with Oklahoma weather and the costs of repairs going up, this is a great program to save money now and reduce future risk. Here’s what you need to know to get started:
Requirements
Your home must be your primary residence in one of the ZIP codes and be in good repair unless recently damaged by a severe weather event. Condominiums, duplexes, mobile homes, and manufactured homes are not eligible.
Documentation
Read the homeowners checklist carefully. You will need to have the following documents before starting your application:
- Homestead exemption documentation obtained from your county assessor
- Proof of a current insurance policy with wind and hail coverage
- Proof of a current flood policy if you live in a special flood hazard area
- Most recent Tax Return Form 1040 to verify income
- Social Security Number
Application
Once you have your documentation ready, head to oid.ok.gov/okready and click “Apply” on the left side of the screen. You will create a profile, enter your information and upload your documents.
Process
After applying, you will receive an email providing directions moving forward. You can also check your dashboard on the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes portal at the following link: https://www.strengthenoklahomahomes.com/. Once approved, you will then choose a pre-approved evaluator from the list in the online portal. The evaluator will schedule a home review and upload a scope of work for contractors to bid. You will choose three contractors from the pre-approved list in your portal and pick a contractor from those bids to do the project. The contractor will schedule and begin the project. Grant funds will be paid to the contractor on behalf of the homeowner after receiving the IBHS FORTIFIED™ Certification.
Additional Information
The grant may not cover the entire cost of roof replacement, but it can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket construction expenses. Homeowners are responsible for the evaluator fees and any additional expenses not covered by the grant.
The Oklahoma Insurance Department is excited to offer this grant opportunity to the people of our great state. Learn more at oid.ok.gov/okready, and email questions about the program or your eligibility to OKReady@oid.ok.gov.
A stronger roof today can mean fewer repairs – and lower premiums – tomorrow.