'Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Act' will provide grants to fortify homes
Homeowners who fortify their homes can also receive lower premiums from many insurance companies.
The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) published a press release announcing the passing of the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Act. Governor Kevin Stitt signed House Bill 3089 into law, which will provide grants to construct and fortify homes, providing protection against tornadoes, windstorms and hail that have historically plagued the state.
Grants will be awarded by the OID to residential properties that are an owner-occupied, single-family primary residence. Condos or mobile homes are not eligible. The grants will help homeowners meet the safety standards outlined by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS).
IBHS is an independent nonprofit scientific research and communications organization whose building safety research leads to real-world solutions for home and business owners. IBHS standards include things like using impact-resistant shingles, a sealed roof deck, and stronger roof deck edges. More on the IBHS programs can be found here: IBHS Fortified Program Overview.
Homeowners who fortify their homes can also receive lower premiums from many insurance companies. The grant program will be in development for the rest of the year and the first grants are set to go out in 2025.
The press release can be found here.