Press Release – July 17, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 17, 2026

HARTFORD, CT - Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) Commissioner Josh Hershman joined industry leaders, builders, and insurance professionals today to highlight the importance of resilient construction practices and the role of FORTIFIED roofing standards in helping homeowners better prepare for severe weather.

The event, hosted by the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of the Connecticut River Region, introduced builders, remodelers, and roofing professionals to the FORTIFIED Roof program. The program, developed by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), provides construction standards intended to improve the resilience of homes against high winds and other severe storm impacts.

Speakers provided information on FORTIFIED certification, resilient construction techniques, and resources available to support resilient home improvements.

"Improving Connecticut's resilience begins with giving communities practical tools that reduce risk," Commissioner Hershman said. "FORTIFIED standards provide a framework that helps homeowners, builders, and communities strengthen properties and better prepare for the weather challenges facing our state."

"As severe weather becomes more frequent and more damaging, proactive mitigation is essential," said George Bradner, Assistant Deputy Commissioner and Director of the Property and Casualty Division. "FORTIFIED roofing practices provide contractors with a clear standard for strengthening homes and helping homeowners better prepare for severe weather events."

"Connecticut builders and remodelers have an important role to play in helping homeowners prepare for severe weather, and FORTIFIED roofing standards provide a practical way to incorporate resilient construction practices into their work," said Eric Person, CEO of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of the Connecticut River Region. "We're proud to help bring this program to local professionals and support construction practices that strengthen homes and communities."

This event reflects the CID's ongoing efforts to strengthen resilience and support long-term preparedness across the state. Through the Severe Weather Mitigation and Resiliency Advisory Council, the Department developed recommendations to help protect homes, businesses, and communities from future losses. CID also provides access to the state's free Climate Risk Mapping Tool, which helps Connecticut residents better understand property level risks related to flooding, wind, wildfire, and extreme heat and make informed decisions about preparedness.

For more information, visit the CID website.

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Contact: Mary Quinn
Communications Director
[email protected]
Cell: (959) 529-4904