How to apply, step by step
The order of operations matters more than anything else in this program. Do the steps out of order — especially starting roof work early — and you lose the grant entirely.
Create a profile and apply at skh.ky.gov
Applications are accepted online only, at the official portal:skh.ky.gov. You can create a profile at any time. Applications have been accepted since March 1, 2026 and are approved first come, first served within your region, so a complete application submitted early beats a perfect one submitted late.
Confirm an approved contractor actually covers your area
The program's own FAQ says to check this before spending money on an evaluation. There are currently only about 31 approved contractors statewide, and coverage is thin in eastern Kentucky. The current list is here.
Hire an approved FORTIFIED evaluator
An independent evaluator inspects your roof and files the eligibility paperwork (form PSI-1) with the Department. You pay the evaluator's fee at whatever price they set — the state does not regulate or publish evaluation fees, so ask for the price up front. Only seven evaluators currently serve Kentucky.
Select your contractor in the application
You must pick from the approved list. Your regular roofer can't do the work unless they get IBHS-certified and join the program (which is free for them to do now — the state reimburses the certification cost under a 2026 law, so it's worth telling a roofer you like about it).
Wait for approval. Really.
The rule, verbatim from the program FAQ: "If you hire a Contractor and begin work before acceptance into the grant program, you will not be eligible for the grant." The regulation says the same thing to contractors: start early and the state won't pay. There is no reimbursement path for work already done.
Complete the work, get certified, and the state pays your contractor
After installation, your evaluator verifies the work and IBHS issues the FORTIFIED designation certificate. The grant — up to $10,000 — is then paid directly to the contractor. The implementing regulation sets a completion deadline after approval (reported as 90 days); your approval notice states your exact deadline, so confirm it there. Keep your certificate: it's what unlocks theinsurance discount, and it transfers if you sell.
Sources: SKH official FAQ,806 KAR 2:200,2026 HB 527.