For Immediate Release:
November 12, 2025
OID Reopens Eligible Zip Codes in Final Pilot for Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program — Statewide Launch Set for 2026
OKLAHOMA CITY— The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) today announces the reopening of previously designated zip codes for the pilot launch of the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (SOH) Program, an initiative aimed at helping Oklahoma homeowners fortify their residences to resist storm, wind, and hail damage. Looking ahead, OID also confirms the program will scale to a full statewide rollout in 2026.
Pilot Re-Opening of Zip Codes
In the initial stage of the SOH program, OID selected specific zip codes for pilot eligibility. Those zip codes were chosen based on factors including storm and paid-loss data, number of active homeowners’ insurance policies, and availability of certified contractors.
The pilot now reopens these previously eligible zip codes, allowing homeowners residing in the designated areas to apply for grant funds. This step reflects OID’s commitment to ensuring full take-up and normalization of the program ahead of the statewide launch.
How the Grant Works
Under the SOH Program, approved homeowners may receive up to $10,000 in grant funds to support certified construction projects that strengthen their homes. These projects must meet the standards of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety’s (IBHS) FORTIFIED Home – Roof™ designation (High Wind + Hail Supplement). For example, eligible improvements include upgraded roof deck attachment, impact-resistant shingles, and wind-resistant attic vents. Homeowners must apply online, live in a qualifying zip code during the pilot, own and occupy the home as their primary residence, maintain a homeowners insurance policy with wind coverage (and flood insurance if in a special flood hazard area).
Why This Matters
Oklahoma is among the most storm-prone states in the United States. Homes with FORTIFIED standards have shown better resilience to wind and hail events, reducing overall loss exposure and lowering homeowners’ insurance premiums. By expanding the SOH program, OID aims to strengthen individual properties and contribute to statewide resilience, helping protect homeowners and the broader insurance market from weather-related loss volatility, and by helping families save on their homeowners’ premiums.
Statewide Rollout in 2026
With the final pilot now being expanded and refined, OID is preparing to take the SOH program statewide in 2026. All 77 counties of Oklahoma will be eligible under the program. This statewide launch marks a significant milestone in the program’s efforts to meet the increasing awareness of mitigation.
What Homeowners Should Know
- If you reside in one of the currently eligible zip codes, you are encouraged to visit www.oid.ok.gov/OKReady to check eligibility, view document checklists, and begin your application now.
- If you live outside the pilot-zip codes, start planning now: gather documents (homestead exemption, proof of insurance, etc.), review improvements needed to qualify for FORTIFIED standards, and stay tuned for rollout notifications.
- In order to participate in the grant program, contractors and evaluators must be certified by the IBHS and on the OID’s list of approved contractors and evaluators; homeowners should verify that contractors are approved via the OKReady Website: https://www.oid.ok.gov/okready/
“A safe, resilient home is one of the best protections a homeowner can have against Oklahoma’s severe weather,” said Deputy Commissioner Ashley Scott, Director of OID’s OKReady initiative. “By reopening these ZIP codes and preparing for a statewide launch in 2026, we are expanding access to meaningful grants that help families protect their homes and reduce premiums.”
For a list of eligible zip codes visit here.