When Mother Nature strikes, the results can be devastating, and even if you’re lucky enough to experience only minor damage, rebuilding and repairing a home isn’t easy. FORTIFIED can help make the process simpler by providing a network of trained professionals who can help you every step of the way. If you’ve very recently experienced a storm, learn what to do next to prevent further damage. Then, when you’re ready to rebuild, use the FORTIFIED construction method to make your home stronger and better able to withstand the next storm.
Hire Quality Contractors
After a storm, demand for contractors is high. After protecting your home from further damage, take your time to hire a company you trust. Consider selecting a contractor or roofing contractor listed in the FORTIFIED directory—each of them is insured and licensed.* Even better, when they repair your home or roof, they can build it back stronger by following the FORTIFIED construction method—making this the last time you have to go through this process.
Find a FORTIFIED Professional
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Learn more about getting a FORTIFIED roof.
Available Funding
The US Small Business Association (SBA) offers disaster assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, and business owners in regions affected by declared disasters. Loans are given to cover repairs and replacement of physical assets damaged in a declared disaster.
To protect homes and businesses from future storm damage, SBA will loan an additional 20% to property owners choosing to upgrade to the FORTIFIED standard. For more information about the SBA disaster loan program, visit sba.gov/disaster.
FAQs
How do I register for help from FEMA?
Register for help from FEMA by visiting disasterassistance.gov.
My FORTIFIED Home has some storm damage. What do I do?
While decades of research and real-world experience proves FORTIFIED prevents damage from winds up to 130 mph, no home is 100% storm proof. Learn more about the repair requirements and process here.
How do I protect my home from further damage after a storm?
As soon as it is safe to do so, have a contractor install a temporary covering such as a tarp over your damaged roof. This will help keep water out and prevent further damage to your home. Your insurance company will likely cover the cost for this. Importantly, if you do not take these steps to reduce further damage, your insurance company may not cover the additional damage to your home. Talk with your insurance provider to make sure you know what's covered and what's not.
Will FORTIFIED prevent all damage to my home?
No. While lab and real-world experience has proven FORTIFIED to be remarkably effective at limiting storm damage, we do expect some FORTIFIED homes to experience damage during extreme weather. Some elements of a home (like siding) are not addressed by the standards and may experience damage. Other components, even ones included in the standards, can be affected by age, climate and maintenance, and some simply have limitations that prevent 100% protection on 100% of the homes in which they are installed. Understanding that even a well-built home may suffer damage is key to FORTIFIED’s success. It’s multiple layers of defenses significantly reduce the chances of a cascade of damage.
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*In states where licensing is required.