Look beyond the shingles.

Think about the roof as a system

IBHS’s FORTIFIED Roof approach addresses roof edges, roof-deck attachment and a sealed roof deck. A sealed deck helps limit water entry if the roof covering is lost. The appropriate materials and installation depend on the home and the applicable standard.

One upgraded component does not make a roof officially FORTIFIED. A designation has its own requirements and verification process.

Questions for a roofing professional

• What condition is the existing roof deck in?
• What attachment and edge details are part of this proposal?
• Is a sealed roof deck appropriate, and how will it be documented?
• What product ratings and installation records will I receive?
• If a designation is proposed, who completes the required evaluation?

Questions for an insurance professional

Review wind and hail deductibles, roof settlement provisions, exclusions and any requirements for mitigation recognition. Ask for the dollar effect of a percentage deductible using the relevant policy limit. Avoid assuming that an impact-rated product guarantees coverage or savings.

A manageable next step

Put your roof invoice, recent condition information and relevant policy language side by side. Highlight the questions neither document answers. If there is unresolved damage, seek appropriate professional help and follow reporting duties before treating the issue as a routine improvement project.