Homeowners are at times concerned about what wildfire mitigation may entail and the costs for house retrofit and brush mitigation to protect against fires. Mitigation for fire risk may also sometimes include thousands of dollars in brush mitigation work (commonly known as defensible space) on various types of landscape vegetation. But, for many, defensible space, does not always involve such high expenses for a homeowner to establish effective wildfire preparedness of vegetation and home protection against fires. Landscape work for wildfire therefore involves creating defensible space around their home structure for fire safety. A fire assessment like the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) assessment covers both fire safety measures on the home and includes assessment recommendations for implementation of effective defensible space. Wildfire mitigation specialists certified in training are qualified to undertake this fire assessment that is accredited by the National Fire Protection Association (N.F.P.A.).
Insurance discounts with fire assessments
Many basic home hardening measures when undertaken effectively reduce wildfire risk to a house structure while, at the same time, necessary landscape maintenance can be met for defensible space requirements in one’s local area. Homeowner insurance discounts, as fire mitigation discounts, are attainable from insurance companies once wildfire mitigation actions like these are implemented to reduce wildfire risk to one’s home property. For example, home hardening to mitigate key areas of vulnerability like vents with a minimum of one-eight-inch screen mesh, add deck skirting to a garden deck, and six-inch metal flashing when combustible siding is close to ground (house foundation area). This will increase fire safety at home. Staying informed about fire near me and initiating wildfire preparedness against fires, such as house retrofit in advance of the next wildfire event is essential to saving your home. One of the best ways to do this is by having a Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) fire assessment undertaken for one of your most valued assets. Having an emergency preparedness plan is also vital in advance of a wildfire situation.