Strengthen mississippi homes program

What is the Strengthen Mississippi Homes (SMH) Program?

Strengthen Mississippi Homes (SMH) is a program administered by the Mississippi Insurance Department and is designed to provide wind mitigation grants to homeowners in Mississippi. It grants up to $10,000 for homeowners to upgrade their roofs to standards set by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. The program’s mission is to protect property and lower insurance rates in Mississippi.​

What is the FORTIFIED Roof Standard?

The wind mitigation standard adopted by the LFHP is known as the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard and was developed by the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). All materials used in the Fortified standard have been extensively tested and approved. Please refer to the IBHS site for more information about specific materials e.g., metal roof panels. More information about the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard is available at www.fortifiedhome.org. Wind mitigation consists of construction methods that strengthen a building against severe storms, high winds and wind-driven rain. Learn more about mitigation-related tax deductions and premium discounts by clicking here.

How do I apply?

To express interest in having your property considered for participation in the Strengthen Mississippi Homes program, please click the following link STRENGTHEN MISSISSIPPI HOMES (SMH)

What types of homes are eligible?

Most primary residences, including duplexes and similar structures, are eligible for the program. New construction homes, condominiums and mobile homes do not qualify.

What requirements must a homeowner meet to be eligible?

Residents of Mississippi of an owner-occupied, single family home and claims it as their primary residence may apply when grants are currently being awarded. The home must be in good repair. Homeowners must provide proof that you have an in-force homeowners insurance policy before the grant will be paid. Homeowners must have flood insurance if you are located in a special flood hazard area. Homeowners must get and pay for out-of-pocket a home evaluation from a Certified FORTIFIED™ Evaluator that is approved by the Strengthen Mississippi Homes program. Homeowners must be able to provide proof that you have an in-force wind insurance policy on your home at the completion of mitigation work.

What is a FORTIFIED Evaluation?

A FORTIFIED™ Evaluation is performed by a FORTIFIED™ Evaluator (like Knockout Inspections) and is a required step in the grant process that determines whether the home can be upgraded under the LFHP and what work is needed to upgrade the home. An evaluation is also performed after the work is complete to confirm the home was properly upgraded to the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard. Homeowners are responsible for paying the evaluation fee. A list of approved Evaluators is available here. Knockout Inspections would love to assist you!

Learn More:

If you have questions concerning Strengthen Mississippi Homes, please contact the Strengthen Mississippi Homes program by calling 1-800-562-2957 or by emailing the program at smh@mid.ms.gov. If you have questions about the FORTIFIED process or designation, please contact Knockout Inspections or visit fortifiedhome.com.