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Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety Updates Wildfire Prepared Home Standard

The threat of extreme wildfires is escalating, and to address this, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has introduced an updated version of its Wildfire Prepared Home Technical Standard. This significant change, marking the first update since the program's inception, is designed to empower homeowners to protect their properties with effective and manageable strategies.

Key Updates to the Standard

As wildfires become increasingly frequent and severe, the revision focuses on educating homeowners about how to minimize these ignition risks. Some of the notable updates include:

• - Installation of Flame- and Ember-Resistant Vents: These vents play a crucial role in protecting homes by preventing embers from entering through openings, which is essential during a wildfire.
• - Establishment of a 0-5 Foot Noncombustible Zone: This area, also referred to as Zone 0, is integral for mitigating ignition from flames and embers that can come from nearby vegetation.

Steve Hawks, IBHS's Senior Director for Wildfire, emphasized, "This update reflects our ongoing research and experiences from real-world applications. The program provides homeowners with actionable science-based steps to shield their properties from devastating wildfires."

Comprehensive Guidelines for Homeowners

The updated standard articulates clearer definitions regarding designation levels, timelines, and eligibility requirements for property owners. Besides this, a new section has been introduced to guide homeowners on precautions they should take during Red Flag Warnings and prolonged absences from their homes. Furthermore, a revised checklist titled How-To Prepare My Home assists homeowners in achieving the necessary mitigation measures to earn the designation.

Hawks further commented, "By continuing to support homeowners in executing effective mitigation actions, we can help more homes endure wildfire events while improving their access to insurance. This is crucial for residents in high-risk wildfire zones."

More about the Wildfire Prepared Designation Program

Launched in 2022, the Wildfire Prepared Home designation is the first of its kind, allowing homeowners to obtain recognition for completing science-based actions that target three critical areas of wildfire vulnerability: the roof, specific building features, and defensible space around the home. Currently available in California and Oregon, the program is set to expand to additional states soon.

The framework consists of two designation levels, with the base level focused on essential wildfire mitigation methods to protect homes from wind-driven embers. The enhanced plus level adds additional safeguards against direct flames and radiant heat, providing a more comprehensive defense against wildfires.

Homeowners interested in the program can begin by consulting the How-To Prepare My Home checklist, which outlines essential actions such as improving defensible space and upgrading significant building features.

After successfully achieving a designation, homeowners are required to maintain their status by submitting an annual review confirming ongoing landscaping maintenance in line with the program's requirements. This process ensures that their property remains fortified against wildfires.

For more information on the newly updated standard and program, including access to the checklist, visit wildfireprepared.org.

About IBHS

The mission of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is to conduct objective scientific research aimed at identifying and advocating effective strategies to fortify homes, businesses, and communities against natural disasters and other risks. To learn more, visit ibhs.org.