Nothing tells the FORTIFIED story better than the families who've lived it. From Hurricane Florence survivors to proactive planners, these North Carolina homeowners share their journeys, mistakes, victories, and advice.
The Wilsons: Outer Banks Survivors
Kill Devil Hills, Dare County"We bought our dream retirement home in Kill Devil Hills in 2017, three blocks from the ocean. Hurricane Florence was our wake-up call. While we evacuated, our neighbor's security camera captured our roof peeling off like a sardine can. The damage: $127,000.
During reconstruction, our contractor mentioned FORTIFIED. The timing was perfect—the Strengthen Your Roof grant had just opened. We received $10,000, which covered most upgrades.
Fast forward to Hurricane Dorian, then Isaias. Our FORTIFIED roof didn't lose a single shingle. Our insurance dropped from $5,800 to $4,200 annually. But the real victory? We stayed through the last two storms. No evacuation, no fear. That peace of mind is worth everything."
Their Advice:
'Don't wait for damage. The grant won't last forever, and one storm can ruin you financially.'
The Martinez Family: Smart Military Move
Jacksonville, Onslow County"As a Marine Corps family, we've moved seven times in 15 years. When we bought in Jacksonville, we knew it might be temporary, but we also knew hurricanes don't care about PCS orders.
We went FORTIFIED before our first hurricane season. Cost: $5,400. Grant: $6,000. We actually made $600! Our USAA premium dropped $320/year, and when we sold three years later, the FORTIFIED certificate sealed the deal. The buyer's agent said it was the deciding factor.
The new owners rode out Hurricane Ian with zero damage. They still send us thank you cards."
Their Advice:
'FORTIFIED isn't just protection—it's a selling point. Military families especially need that flexibility.'
The Thompson Rental Empire
Carolina Beach, New Hanover County"We own four beach rentals in Carolina Beach. After Florence, two needed new roofs anyway. We did FORTIFIED on those two, standard repairs on the others. Big mistake.
The FORTIFIED properties now rent for 20% more. Guests specifically request them. Our insurance is $1,400/year less on each FORTIFIED property. During the last nor'easter, guess which two had damage?
We're converting the remaining properties this spring. The math is undeniable: FORTIFIED pays for itself in 18 months on a rental."
Their Advice:
'Think like a business. FORTIFIED is the best ROI in property management.'
The Historic Home Preservationists
New Bern, Craven County"Our 1923 Victorian in downtown New Bern survived every hurricane for a century—until Florence. The storm surge came up Broad Street like a river. While the house stood, the roof damage led to months of interior water damage.
Working with the Historic District Commission, we implemented FORTIFIED while maintaining our home's character. Hidden fasteners, period-appropriate materials, invisible reinforcements. You'd never know it's FORTIFIED by looking.
Insurance savings: $480/year. But more importantly, we preserved a piece of history for future generations. The house that survived the Civil War now has 21st-century protection."
Their Advice:
'Historic doesn't mean vulnerable. FORTIFIED respects architectural heritage while adding modern protection.'
The Climate Change Converts
Wilmington, New Hanover County"We're not originally from hurricane country—moved from Ohio in 2019. The whole hurricane thing seemed overblown. Then came the evacuation orders. The panic. The traffic. The uncertainty.
After that first evacuation, we got educated. NC Fortified explained everything without the hard sell. We learned that climate change isn't about believing—it's about preparing for reality. Storms are getting worse, wetter, and more frequent.
FORTIFIED was our climate adaptation strategy. We figured: invest $6,000 now (minus grant = $0) or pay $50,000+ later. Easy choice.
Last summer's surprise tropical storm tested us. Neighbors had tarps and contractors. We had dinner on the deck."
Their Advice:
'You don't have to be from here to be smart about living here. FORTIFIED is climate adaptation that pays you back.'
The Lessons Learned
Common Themes from 100+ FORTIFIED Families:
Timing is Everything
Grant funds disappear fast. Insurance cancellations come without warning. Storms don't wait.
The Money Always Works Out
Between grants, insurance savings, and avoided damage, FORTIFIED pays for itself.
Peace of Mind is Priceless
Every family mentions the relief of not fearing hurricane season.
It's Easier Than Expected
Professional evaluators and trained contractors make the process smooth.
Regret Only Comes from Waiting
No one regrets going FORTIFIED. Many regret waiting.
Your Story Starts Today
These families were once where you are—considering FORTIFIED, running numbers, weighing options. They made the smart choice. Their homes are protected, their insurance is affordable, and their families are safe.
What will your FORTIFIED story be?