FORTIFIED

The Institute for Business & Home Safety's suite of FORTIFIED programs is dedicated to improving the quality of residential and light commercial buildings. The FORTIFIED programs feature practical, meaningful solutions for new as well as existing structures throughout the United States. Every area of North America is exposed to some type of natural hazard that puts homes and businesses in harm’s way. IBHS uses applied building science solutions to reduce the risks facing these properties, and has incorporated that knowledge into the following programs:

FORTIFIED for Safer Living®

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Battle-tested by Hurricane Ike on the Bolivar Peninsula in Texas in 2008, this code-plus new construction program helps homeowners and homebuilders build stronger, safer homes from the ground up. From earthquakes and hurricanes to severe winter weather and wildfires, the program’s standards are designed to increase a home’s resistance to whatever natural hazards threaten the area where the house is located. Click here to learn more about building a new FORTIFIED home.

FORTIFIED for Existing Homes™

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Launched in 2010, this program is designed to help strengthen existing homes through retrofit techniques that will ward off damage from specific natural hazards. From basic improvements to whole-house renovations, almost any homeowner can gain peace of mind from Mother Nature by earning a FORTIFIED designation. Click here to learn more about retrofitting an existing home.

FORTIFIED for Safer Business™

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Currently in development, this code-plus light commercial, new construction program will help small and mid-sized businesses weather the natural hazards that shutter the doors of numerous enterprises each year in the United States. Please check back for program updates. Coming Soon.