The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has announced the expansion of its OKReady program, an initiative under the broader Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (SOH) project.
The expansion now includes eight new zip codes in the Tulsa metro area, increasing the total to 17 zip codes participating in the program’s second pilot phase.
The program offers up to $10,000 in grant funding per household to help homeowners strengthen their homes against storm damage.
High Demand Spurs Program Growth
The application window, which opened on May 5, has seen a surge in submissions, prompting the OID to add more zip codes to meet growing interest.
Homeowners in the newly eligible areas can immediately apply online to receive funds for storm-resistant upgrades.
Selection Criteria Based on Risk and Impact
Zip codes were chosen using several key indicators:
- Storm data
- Paid loss ratios
- Number of active insurance policies
- Availability of certified contractors
- Evaluator presence
Further assessment relied on FEMA’s wind and hail loss index, focusing on communities with over 500 active policies, frequent insurance claims, and high vulnerability to convective storms.
Program Performance and Future Expansion Plans
According to Ashley Scott, Deputy Commissioner of External Affairs and OKReady director, the initial results of the program, which launched in March, have been very encouraging.
“These eight zip codes have been significantly affected by recent storms, and we’re thrilled to bring this support to their communities,” she said.
The early pilot phases allow the OID to evaluate:
- Application processing times
- Technology performance
- Contractor and evaluator readiness
Looking ahead, the department plans to introduce additional pilot zones throughout 2025, with a target of awarding 1,000 total grants by the end of the year.
Grant Details and Fortification Standards
Approved applicants can receive up to $10,000 in construction funding aimed at meeting the IBHS FORTIFIED Home – Roof™ – High Wind designation, along with the Hail Supplement. The grant is paid directly to certified contractors once the home receives official IBHS FORTIFIED Certification
The expansion of the OKReady grant program into more Tulsa zip codes represents a vital step in helping Oklahoma homeowners better protect their properties from severe weather.
By offering up to $10,000 in direct-to-contractor grants, the OID is reducing financial barriers while supporting safer, more resilient homes. With more pilot areas planned and a goal of issuing 1,000 grants by year’s end, OKReady is making real progress toward strengthening communities statewide.