Q1: Can you retrofit a newer roof to be FORTIFIED? My roof is only 7 years old. Would I need an entirely new roof or can it be amended?
Most LFHP projects require a full roof replacement. Partial repairs, patching, and spray-foam-only retrofits are not eligible for funding. The completed project must meet the IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ standard. A FORTIFIED evaluator will assess whether your current roof qualifies and identify any required upgrades.
If your roof is seven years old and in good condition, consult a FORTIFIED evaluator to determine if a grant-funded reroof is appropriate at this time.
Where available, many insurers offer a FORTIFIED endorsement that can be added to your policy. If a covered loss results in roof replacement, this endorsement can help fund reconstruction to the FORTIFIED standard.
If your roof is being replaced following covered storm damage, the LFHP may also help pay the additional cost of upgrading to the IBHS FORTIFIED Roof standard. Applicants must disclose any insurance proceeds received or anticipated, and LFHP funds may only be used to cover eligible costs that are not otherwise paid by insurance.
Check current lottery dates and parish eligibility at ldi.la.gov/fortifyhomes. Do not hire a contractor or begin any work before receiving LFHP approval. Doing so will result in ineligibility for the grant.
Q2: Is there a timeframe the grant has to be used by? If I get the grant this round, how long do I have to use the funds?
The LFHP program rules state that you have 90 days to complete the work from the date LFHP notifies you that you are approved to proceed with the project.
Extensions are possible but not guaranteed. You would need to request one in writing, with documentation of extenuating circumstances, and the Commissioner has sole discretion to grant it.
Once you receive LFHP’s approval-to-proceed notice, the evaluator assessment and any historic reviews should start immediately and run in parallel. Become familiar with the LFHP-approved contractor list and understand your roof’s condition before you register. If you are in an Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) or Vieux Carre Commission (VCC) district, familiarize yourself with the Certificate of Appropriateness process early and begin gathering any information that may be needed once you are selected. Ninety days move fast.
Q3: What qualifications do I need to meet to qualify for the LFHP lottery?
Here is what the program requires:
Your home must be in a parish eligible for the current funding round. Parish participation can change between rounds, so check the current eligibility map at ldi.la.gov/fortifyhomes before registering.
The home must be a primary residence with a homestead exemption. Most owner-occupied primary residences, including many duplexes and similar residential structures, are eligible. Condominiums, mobile homes, and new construction are not eligible. The home must be in good repair unless damage was caused by a hurricane, non-hurricane wind, or hail. An active wind insurance policy is required, and if your home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, flood insurance is required as well. Homes built on unrestrained dry-stack masonry foundations are not eligible unless the foundation has been retrofitted in accordance with LFHP requirements.
Q4: If I am awarded a grant, who should I call first if I live in a partial control district? What if I live in a full control district?
Once LFHP authorizes you to move forward, promptly complete the evaluator requirements and begin any required historic district approvals in parallel. The evaluator’s assessment is a required part of the LFHP process and helps determine what work is needed to achieve the FORTIFIED Roof standard.
The two processes should run at the same time, not sequentially:
In a partial control district, contact the Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC). You will need a Certificate of Appropriateness before any exterior work can begin.
In a full control district like the French Quarter, contact the Vieux Carre Commission (VCC). VCC reviews can take longer, so engage them as early as possible.
Because the LFHP completion deadline continues to run after approval to proceed, homeowners in HDLC or VCC districts should begin the historic review process as early as possible. Two parallel tracks from day one.
A few other things worth knowing about the LFHP:
The grant covers construction costs only. Homeowners are responsible for permit fees, evaluator fees, and any project costs above the $10,000 cap.
Before you register, create your profile at ldi.la.gov/fortifyhomes. You will need it in place before you can enter the lottery. Per LFHP program rules, applicants are required to report any funds received or anticipated from insurance, disaster relief, or other sources to ensure the grant covers only actual costs. The LDI website also notes that applicants must report and provide documentation for all homeowner insurance claims filed in the past five years, regardless of whether payments were received or coverage was denied. Failure to disclose can affect your eligibility. During the application process, you will also be asked to review and sign the official LFHP Homeowner Rules and Requirements document. Read it carefully before signing.
FORTIFIED designations are good for five years and are transferable when you sell your home. To renew, a FORTIFIED evaluator inspects the home to confirm there are no substantial structural changes and that the roof is within its expected life. If it passes, the designation is renewed for another five-year period. You will receive a reminder letter when your renewal approaches. As long as the roof remains in good condition and the home continues to meet FORTIFIED requirements, the designation can be renewed for the life of the roof.
For program-specific questions, contact the LFHP directly at [email protected] or 1-800-259-5300.
What if I do not win the lottery? Can I still get a FORTIFIED Roof?
Yes. While LFHP provides grant funding, homeowners can obtain a FORTIFIED Roof independently. A certified FORTIFIED evaluator and contractor can complete the work and secure the designation without an LFHP grant. The grant helps offset costs but is not required.
What if my contractor is not on the LFHP-approved contractor list?
Only LFHP-approved contractors may perform grant-funded work. If your preferred contractor is not currently approved, contact the LFHP to determine whether they may be eligible to participate in the program. Confirm contractor eligibility at ldi.la.gov/fortifyhomes before starting any