Thousands of grants are available, but the registration window won’t stay open for long.
If your roof is getting older or you’ve been putting off a replacement because of the cost, now is the time to pay attention.
The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program has opened registration for its latest grant lottery, giving homeowners the chance to receive up to $10,000 toward a FORTIFIED roof upgrade. Registration opened on June 1 and closes on June 19 at 5:00 p.m.
This round includes 3,000 available grants, making it one of the largest opportunities Louisiana homeowners have seen through the program.
At Mackie One, we’ve worked with homeowners throughout the New Orleans area who have gone through the process. We’ve seen firsthand how FORTIFIED roofing systems perform during severe weather, and we’ve helped families navigate the steps required to qualify.
What Is the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program?
The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program is a state-funded initiative administered by the Louisiana Department of Insurance. Its purpose is straightforward: help homeowners strengthen their roofs so they’re better prepared for hurricanes, high winds, and severe storms.
The program promotes roofing systems built to FORTIFIED standards, a nationally recognized construction standard designed to reduce storm-related damage.
This year’s funding totals $80 million. According to the state, $50 million comes from Katrina and Rita bond assessment funds through Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance, while another $30 million comes from insurance-related taxes and fees.
The current lottery round will award 3,000 grants to eligible homeowners across the state.
How Much Money Can You Receive?
Eligible homeowners can receive up to $10,000 toward a qualifying roof project.
For many households, that covers a substantial portion of the overall cost. In some situations, the grant covers most of the project.
There are still expenses homeowners should plan for, including:
- FORTIFIED evaluator fees
- Permit costs
- Required inspections
- Any project costs exceeding the grant amount
Even with those additional expenses, a $10,000 grant significantly reduces the out-of-pocket cost of a roof upgrade.
Who Is Eligible?
To apply, you must:
- Own the home
- Have a homestead exemption on the property
- Live within an eligible area designated by the program
Eligibility areas have expanded since earlier rounds, so homeowners who previously did not qualify should check again before assuming they’re excluded.
Review the official eligibility map and program requirements at FortifyHomes.La.Gov before registering.
Documents You’ll Need Before Registering
A little preparation now will make the registration process much smoother.
Gather the following documents before you begin:
1. Homestead Exemption Documentation
If you don’t already have a copy, contact your parish tax assessor’s office.
2. Homeowners Insurance Declarations Page
Your declarations page must show wind coverage. If you can’t find it, your insurance agent should be able to provide a copy quickly.
3. Flood Insurance Declarations Page
This is only required if your property is located in a designated flood zone.
Applicants must also create a profile within the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program system before completing registration.
If you entered a previous lottery round and were not selected, you’ll need to register again. Previous applications are not automatically carried forward.
When Will Applicants Be Notified?
Homeowners selected in this round are expected to begin receiving notifications on June 22.
That means you’ll know within a few days of the registration deadline whether you’ve secured a grant.
What Happens After You’re Selected?
Selected homeowners must work with a FORTIFIED-certified evaluator and a FORTIFIED-certified contractor to complete the project according to program requirements.
That’s where having an experienced contractor matters.
At Mackie One, we’re certified to perform FORTIFIED roofing work and understand the documentation, inspection requirements, and construction standards involved. Our team helps homeowners navigate the process efficiently while ensuring the completed roof meets grant requirements.
A FORTIFIED roof doesn’t automatically guarantee insurance savings. Every insurance company handles discounts differently, so it’s important to speak with your carrier directly.
What a FORTIFIED roof provides is a higher level of protection against the wind and weather conditions that Louisiana homeowners face every year.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
June 19 may sound far away, but gathering documents, confirming eligibility, and setting up your program profile often takes longer than expected.
The sooner you start, the less stressful the process becomes.
If you have questions about eligibility, FORTIFIED roofing standards, or the grant process itself, our team is happy to help.
Programs like this don’t come around often. If you’ve been considering a roof replacement, this is an opportunity worth exploring before registration closes.
Mackie One Construction | 504-821-1530 | “If You Don’t Call Mackie One, It’s Your Asphalt℠”