Approved evaluators
The evaluator is the independent inspector who determines whether your roof qualifies, files your eligibility paperwork with the state, and certifies the finished work with IBHS. You hire and pay them directly, and they cannot be your roofer — the independence is the point.
| Evaluator | Based in | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Knockout Home Inspections (Nathan Lippincott) | Richmond, KY | (855) 463-6756 |
| Fortified Inspections (Derek Najdowski) | Lexington, KY | (855) 933-6784 |
| GuardianPro Inspections (Eric Gentry) | Louisville, KY | (502) 777-9334 |
| Fortified Evaluators LLC (Raymond Neelon) | Lexington, KY | (502) 586-4646 |
| Home Energy & Comfort Solutions (John Sabbak) | La Grange, KY | (502) 643-7160 |
| McGhee's Home Improvement (David McGhee) | Russellville, KY | (270) 847-5897 |
| Tri-County HomeWorx dba AmeriSpec (Doug Haynes) | Loveland, OH | (513) 341-1489 |
What to ask when you call
- The full price, in writing. The state doesn't set or publish evaluation fees; the evaluator does. Ask what the total covers — initial assessment, paperwork, and the final certification visit.
- Whether they cover your county. Seven evaluators serve the whole state, clustered around Louisville, Lexington, and Richmond. Far-western and southeastern Kentucky may mean travel charges.
- Timing. The evaluation happens before your application can be approved, and again after construction. Ask their current backlog.
Why the evaluator comes before the grant
Your application isn't complete until an approved evaluator files a form (PSI-1) with the Department of Insurance confirming your roof is eligible and mitigable. That's why the program tells you to confirm contractor coverage first — the evaluation fee is yours to pay whether or not a contractor can reach you.
List cross-checked against the official page on August 21, 2026; verify current status there. Process: SKH FAQ and806 KAR 2:200.