Strengthen Minnesota Homes
Current update (7/01/26): The Strengthen MN Homes program is not accepting applications. We are building a strong network of FORTIFIED™ certified contractors and evlauators to support program implementation in early 2027. Training opportunities for contractors and evaluators will continue throughout 2026-2027. Additional information about these opportunities along with program updates will be shared on our website. We encourage you to check back periodically for the most current information.
Please note that applications will only be accepted once the program officially opens, and retroactive applications cannot be considered.
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Protect Your Home from Severe Weather
What the Program Does
Strengthen Minnesota Homes helps homeowners replace their roofs with materials that will protect homes against extreme weather like high winds and hail. The program relies on a construction method called FORTIFIED™ developed by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). These standards go above the building code and are designed to enhance a home’s ability to withstand the impacts of extreme weather.
Overview
Upgrading to the FORTIFIED Roof™ standard can:
- Reduce wind and hail damage by up to 60%
- Qualify homeowners for insurance premium discounts
- Make homes more resilient and reduce future repair costs
In the 2023 session, the Legislature established a new pre-disaster mitigation program to help Minnesotans upgrade their roofs to make them more resistant to high wind, hail and other extreme weather events. The program aims to keep Minnesotans safer and healthier in their homes and is an action Minnesotans can take to build individual climate resiliency.
Laws 2023 Chapter 60 appropriates $1 million in planning funds to the agency to work over the next two years to stand up the details of the new program. Laws 2023 Chapter 57 creates the framework for the program and establishes criteria for contractors and other professionals to perform work on homes once the grant program becomes operational.
Chapter 57 also requires insurance companies to offer a premium discount to Minnesotans who upgrade their existing roof, or builds a new roof, to the FORTIFIED™ standard. Any Minnesotan with a FORTIFIED Roof™ on their home that meets the definition of an insurable property under Minn. Stat. §65A.298 is eligible for a discount on their insurance premium.
Grant amounts
The projected grant amount for each qualifying home is estimated between $10,000 - $15,000. Note that this grant amount may not cover the full cost of upgrading a home up to the FORTIFIED Roof™ standard.
Homeowner eligibility
To be eligible for the Strengthen Minnesota Homes Program, homeowners must meet the following criteria:
- Be the owner of a single- or two-family home in Crow Wing County, Hennepin County, Morrison County, or Todd County
- Allow for the home to be inspected by a FORTIFIED™ certified evaluator to confirm eligibility
Residences must:
- Have a qualifying existing roof and structure foundation
- Not be in a state of structural disrepair
Contractor Participation
To participate in the program as a contractor, roofers must meet all program requirements including training and certification. The eligible contractor must:
- Have a valid roofing license and business registration
- Possess an in-force general liability policy with $1,000,000 in liability coverage
- Possess an in-force worker's compensation policy
- Possess a certificate of compliance from the commissioner of revenue
- Complete the FORTIFIED Roof™ for High Wind and Hail training provided by the IBHS
- Sucessfully pass the exam and maintain an active certification
Training Opportunities
Roofing Contractors: Use this link for information on the FORTIFIED Home™ Roofing Contractor – High Wind and Hail training.
General Contractors: Use this link for information on the FORTIFIED Home™ Professional – High Wind and Hail training.
Please note that non-profit contractors or contractors affiliated with a qualified non-profit organization may be eligible to have the costs of FORTIFIED Home™ trainings offered at no cost.
Evaluator Participation
To be eligible to work on the program as an evaluator, the evaluator must meet all program eligibility requirements and must submit to the commissioner and maintain a copy of all current certificates and licenses. The evaluator must:
- Be in good standing with IBHS and maintain an active certification as a FORTIFIED Home™ Evaluator for high wind and hail or a successor certification
- Possess a Minnesota business license and be registered with the Secretary of State
- Cuccessfully complete the program training
Prospective Evaluators: Use this link for information on the FORTIFIED Home™ Evaluator – High Wind and Hail training.
For additional information, please contact Sherron.Taylor@state.mn.us. Please subscribe to our newsletter for upcoming training opportunities.