As a duplex or multifamily property owner, you know that maintaining your roof is not just about keeping the rain out—it’s about protecting your investment, ensuring tenant safety, and keeping insurance costs manageable. But with rising insurance premiums and insurers pulling out of certain states, the stakes have never been higher. That’s why we’re excited to announce the release of the FORTIFIED Roofing 2026 above-code standard, a revolutionary approach to roofing that’s designed to meet the challenges of today’s insurance and regulatory landscape.
At Browns Roofing, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement, offering expert FORTIFIED roofing solutions tailored to the unique needs of duplex and multifamily property owners. With our in-house Fortified Systems Integrator, we’re here to help you navigate this new standard and secure the peace of mind you deserve.
The Insurance Crisis: Why FORTIFIED Roofing Matters
In recent years, property insurance has become a significant pain point for property owners, especially in coastal and storm-prone states. Insurers are withdrawing from markets, leaving property owners scrambling for coverage. Those who can find insurance are often faced with skyrocketing premiums.
To combat this crisis, insurance regulatory bodies and state governments are promoting the FORTIFIED Roofing standard. This above-code roofing system is designed to withstand severe weather conditions, reduce water intrusion, and minimize damage during storms. By adopting FORTIFIED standards, property owners can:
- Lower insurance premiums: Many insurers offer discounts for FORTIFIED roofs, as they significantly reduce the risk of damage.
- Attract insurers: Properties with FORTIFIED roofs are more likely to be insured, as they meet higher safety and durability standards.
- Qualify for grants: States are offering financial incentives and grant programs to encourage property owners to upgrade to FORTIFIED roofs.
What Is FORTIFIED Roofing?
The FORTIFIED Roofing standard, developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), goes beyond traditional building codes to provide enhanced protection against severe weather. Key features include:
- Sealed roof decks: Prevents up to 95% of water intrusion during storms, even if shingles are blown off.
- Improved flashing and sealing: Reduces vulnerabilities around vents, chimneys, and other roof penetrations.
- Enhanced wind resistance: Designed to withstand high wind speeds, reducing the risk of roof damage during hurricanes and storms.
- Ridge vent optimization: Eliminates common water entry points, such as gable end vents, for better overall performance.
These features not only protect your property but also reduce the likelihood of costly repairs and tenant displacement after a storm.
Coastal States Leading the Way
Coastal states, which are most vulnerable to hurricanes and severe weather, are leading the charge in adopting FORTIFIED standards. Increased contractor regulation and permitting requirements are raising the bar for roofing construction, ensuring that only qualified professionals can perform this work. This is great news for property owners, as it means higher-quality installations and better long-term performance.
At Browns Roofing, we’ve embraced these changes and are fully equipped to meet the new standards. Our team undergoes rigorous training to stay ahead of industry trends, and our Fortified Systems Integrator ensures that every FORTIFIED roof we install meets or exceeds the required specifications.
Why Duplex and Multifamily Property Owners Should Act Now
As a duplex or multifamily property owner, upgrading to a FORTIFIED roof is one of the smartest investments you can make. Here’s why:
- Protect Your Investment: A FORTIFIED roof minimizes damage during storms, reducing repair costs and preserving the value of your property.
- Keep Tenants Safe: Enhanced roofing systems provide better protection for your tenants, ensuring their safety and comfort during severe weather.
- Save on Insurance: With insurers offering discounts for FORTIFIED roofs, you can significantly lower your premiums and make your property more attractive to insurers.
- Access Financial Incentives: Take advantage of state grants and financial programs to offset the cost of upgrading your roof.
Browns Roofing: Your FORTIFIED Roofing Partner
At Browns Roofing, we understand the unique challenges faced by duplex and multifamily property owners. With locations in Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Monroe, and Little Rock, we’ve been serving Louisiana and Arkansas communities with top-notch roofing solutions for years. Our commitment to excellence, community, and innovation makes us the ideal partner for your FORTIFIED roofing needs.
What sets us apart is our Fortified Systems Integrator, a dedicated in-house expert who ensures that every FORTIFIED roof we install is done right. From navigating permitting requirements to coordinating with insurance companies, our Fortified Systems Integrator is here to make the process seamless and stress-free.