What Is the Strengthen Kentucky Homes Program?

If you live in Kentucky and own your home, the state has $5 million set aside to help you upgrade your roof — and you could get up to $10,000 to do it.

Governor Andy Beshear announced the Strengthen Kentucky Homes Program is now open and taking applications. The program was created because Kentucky has been hit by 15 federally declared weather disasters in the past six years. The goal is to help homeowners build stronger roofs that can stand up to wind and hail.

How Much Money Can You Get?

Eligible homeowners can receive grants of up to $10,000. This is free money — not a loan. You use it to upgrade your roof to a special standard called a FORTIFIED roof system.

What Is a FORTIFIED Roof?

A FORTIFIED roof is built to be tougher than a standard roof. Here is what makes it different:

Stronger edges around the roof
Sealed roof decking to keep water out if shingles blow off
Special ring-shank nails that hold better in high winds
Impact-resistant shingles that can handle hail

A FORTIFIED roof can help lower your homeowner's insurance costs too, which makes it a double win.

Who Can Apply?

The program is open to Kentucky homeowners. You will need to apply through the state portal and use a certified contractor and evaluator to complete the upgrade.

How Do You Apply?

Applications opened on March 1, 2026. More than 150 people have already applied, so do not wait.

Go to SKH.ky.gov
Fill out the online application
Find a certified FORTIFIED contractor in your area through the same website

The program has $5 million total, and funds will be awarded until the money runs out. Apply as soon as you can.

Bottom Line

If you live in Kentucky and want to protect your home from storms — and potentially lower your insurance bill — this program is worth checking out right now. Visit SKH.ky.gov to apply.

Kentucky Is Giving Homeowners Up to $10,000 to Strengthen Their Roofs