Oklahoma weather is no joke. Every year, thousands of homes across our state suffer damage from high winds, hailstorms, and severe weather events. But thanks to a forward-thinking initiative from the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID), homeowners may be eligible for up to $10,000 to upgrade their roof and better protect their home.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Grant Program—how it works, who qualifies, and what steps to take before the funding is gone.
Key Takeaways
- The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Grant Program provides up to $10,000 to help Oklahoma homeowners retrofit their roofs to meet FORTIFIED standards that resist wind and hail damage.
- Eligible ZIP codes in the May 5 launch include Edmond, Piedmont, and parts of Tulsa and Owasso, making it critical for residents in those areas to apply right at noon to secure funding.
- Applications must be submitted at oid.ok.gov/getready6_2024 and require a Homestead Exemption document and proof of homeowners insurance.
- A certified FORTIFIED Evaluator must inspect your roof before any work begins, and homeowners are responsible for paying the evaluator’s fee, typically under $500.
- Only contractors approved by the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program can perform the roofing upgrades, and the grant funds are paid directly to the contractor upon successful completion and certification.
- FORTIFIED roofs may qualify homeowners for up to 42% off the wind portion of their insurance premium, depending on their carrier and policy details.
- If the roofing project exceeds $10,000, homeowners are responsible for covering the remaining balance, so careful contractor selection is important.
- The FORTIFIED designation is transferable and can increase home value while providing added peace of mind during Oklahoma’s severe weather seasons.
What Is the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Grant Program?
The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (SOH) Grant Program is a state-funded initiative that helps homeowners retrofit their roofs to meet IBHS FORTIFIED Home™ standards. These enhanced construction standards were developed by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety and are specifically designed to improve a home’s ability to withstand wind, hail, and other severe weather common in Oklahoma.
The program is administered by the Oklahoma Insurance Department and was created to lower damage costs for both homeowners and insurers, while increasing safety and durability.
How Much Can You Receive?
- Up to $10,000 in grant funding
- Paid directly to the approved contractor
- Can only be used for FORTIFIED roofing upgrades
Who Qualifies for the Grant?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must own and occupy a single-family, primary residence in Oklahoma
- The home must be in good repair unless recently damaged by a wind or hail event
- Must provide proof of homeowners insurance with wind coverage
- If located in a FEMA-designated flood zone, a flood insurance policy is also required
- Must upload a PDF of the Homestead Exemption during the application
- Must reside in an eligible ZIP code (see below)
ZIP Codes Eligible in Phase 2 (Effective May 5)
The second phase of the program opens at 12:00 PM on Monday, May 5. The following ZIP codes are eligible:
- 73078 — Piedmont
- 73012 — West Edmond
- 73013 — NW Oklahoma City
- 73034 — Edmond
- 74106 — North Tulsa
- 74055 — Owasso
- 74010 — Bristow
- 74066 — Sapulpa
- 74017 — Claremore / Foyil
Note: These grants are first-come, first-served. Applications submitted even minutes after noon may not be funded due to high demand.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Apply Online
Go to the official OID application portal:
https://www.oid.ok.gov/getready6_2024/
You’ll be asked to upload proof of insurance and your Homestead Exemption.
Step 2: Choose a FORTIFIED Evaluator
You must select a certified evaluator from the OID-approved list. This evaluator will inspect your roof and provide a Scope of Work.
Note: Homeowners pay the evaluation fee directly, which is typically under $500.
Step 3: Get Contractor Bids
Once the Scope of Work is complete, you’ll request bids from three contractors approved by the program.
Step 4: Grant Review and Contractor Selection
OID will review the bids, approve the grant amount, and allow you to select a contractor.
Step 5: Roofing Work Begins
The selected contractor will complete the roofing work in accordance with FORTIFIED standards.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Certification
The evaluator will return after the project to confirm that all work complies with FORTIFIED standards. They will submit documentation to IBHS, which will issue your official certificate.
Step 7: Contractor Payment
OID pays the contractor directly once certification is confirmed.
What Are the Benefits of a FORTIFIED Roof?
Greater Protection Against Storm Damage
FORTIFIED roofs are built to resist high winds, uplift, and hail impact far better than traditional construction methods.
Insurance Premium Discounts
Homes with a certified FORTIFIED Roof may qualify for up to 42% off the wind portion of their homeowners insurance. Exact savings vary by provider.
Boost in Home Value
FORTIFIED certification is transferable and can serve as a major selling point during resale.
Long-Term Peace of Mind
A FORTIFIED roof reduces the likelihood of costly emergency repairs after storms and can improve your eligibility for future insurance coverage.
Choosing the Right Evaluator and Contractor
It is essential to select professionals who are experienced in the FORTIFIED process—not just any roofer. Both the evaluator and contractor must be approved by the program.
One trusted name in Oklahoma is McRoof.US. Led by Scott McCollum, who is both a certified FORTIFIED Evaluator and an approved contractor. They specialize in building storm-resilient roofing systems that exceed minimum standards. Scott is listed as S & CM LLC DBA McRoof.us for Evaluator and Contractor.
To get help with your evaluation or project planning:
Visit www.mcroof.us
Call 405-877-7663
Don’t Wait – Apply at Noon on May 5
The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Grant Program is a rare opportunity to invest in your home’s resilience with financial support from the state. But it’s also highly competitive. The application window opens at noon, and funds often run out within hours.
To apply and learn more, visit:
https://www.oid.ok.gov/getready6_2024/
Taking a few minutes to apply could save you thousands—and give you the kind of roof that stands up to whatever Oklahoma weather throws at it next.