Governor Andy Beshear announced Thursday the state’s Strengthen Kentucky Homes Program is now open and accepting homeowner applications.
The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to help eligible homeowners strengthen their roofs against severe wind and hail. The initiative was created through House Bill 256 and funded with $5 million to help families better protect their homes from extreme weather.
Beshear said Kentucky has experienced 15 federally declared weather disasters in the past six years, and the program aims to help residents build stronger homes while potentially lowering insurance costs.
Since the application portal opened March 1, the Kentucky Department of Insurance says it has already received more than 150 applications from across the state.
The program supports installation of FORTIFIED roof systems, which include stronger roof edges, sealed roof decking to reduce water damage, improved attachment using ring-shank nails, and impact-resistant shingles designed to withstand hail and high winds. State officials are also encouraging contractors and evaluators to become certified providers to help complete the upgrades for approved homeowners.
Residents and contractors can learn more or apply at SKH.ky.gov.
