The FORTIFIED Factor

Knockout Inspections

An AI assisted podcast discussing all things resilient, reliable and severe-weather ready as it pertains to one of of your most important investments: YOUR HOME! This is a work product of Knockout Inspections. Our company has a team of in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators ready to answer any and all of your questions. Give us a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.

  1. 2D AGO

    FORTIFIED Requirements for Elevated Roof HVAC Units

    Roof-mounted HVAC units are common in many regions—but when they’re not properly designed, attached, and evaluated, they can become a serious weak point during high-wind and hurricane events. In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down the official FORTIFIED Home™ requirements for elevated roof-mounted HVAC units, as outlined in the latest FORTIFIED Engineering Standards. You’ll learn why these systems pose elevated risks, what disqualifies a home from a FORTIFIED designation, and why a professional engineer is always required when roof-mounted HVAC equipment is present. We cover: Why gravity-only and improperly attached HVAC platforms fail in severe weatherWhat “positive anchorage” really means for elevated roof platformsCommon issues with flashing, sealing, and deterioration at roof penetrationsWhat’s required for re-roofing when HVAC units are elevated above the roofThe documentation and compliance verification needed for FORTIFIED eligibilityIf your home has a roof-mounted HVAC unit—or you’re planning upgrades, retrofits, or a FORTIFIED designation—this episode explains what inspectors, engineers, and homeowners need to know to reduce risk and protect the home envelope. 📞 Have questions after listening? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to speak with our in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators.

    16 min
  2. 11/28/2025

    Updated Standards for Contractors and Roofers

    Are you a roofing contractor or builder trying to stay ahead of the new 2025 FORTIFIED® Home Standard? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down the stricter requirements that now define what it means to be a truly resilient, storm-ready roofing professional.  We cover why IBHS raised the bar for roof performance nationwide, what the November 1, 2025 cutoff means for your projects, and how to adapt your crews, materials, and documentation so your work still qualifies for FORTIFIED designations and homeowner insurance benefits. You’ll learn: The hard deadline: which projects must follow the 2025 FORTIFIED Home Standard and which can still use the 2022 standardHow tighter nailing patterns, minimum sheathing thickness, and mandatory sealed roof decks change your day-to-day installsWhy IBHS-rated impact-resistant shingles are now required for FORTIFIED hail requirements (legacy “Class 4” isn’t enough)The new rules for roof-mounted equipment like solar panels, HVAC units, and satellite dishesWhat “no more sloppy documentation” really means: high-res, time-stamped, geo-tagged photo verification layer-by-layerThe mandatory contractor certification requirements to keep your roofs eligible for FORTIFIED designationsThe updated time-in-business requirement: lowered from 7 years to just 2 years, opening the door for high-performing newer companiesHow the online FORTIFIED Roof 2025 training and exam work (tight timelines, 85% passing score, 3 attempts)The step-by-step path to becoming a listed FORTIFIED service provider and turning compliance into a competitive edgeWhether you’re a seasoned roofing company or a fast-growing contractor, this episode helps you turn a looming standard into a market advantage—and avoid losing jobs, designations, or future insurability because your installs no longer qualify. 🎧 Hosted by AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) on The FORTIFIED Factor—your AI-assisted, AI-hosted guide to resilient, reliable, severe-weather-ready homes. 👉 Have questions after the episode? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to connect with a FORTIFIED Evaluator and get clarity on your next roofing project.

    15 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

An AI assisted podcast discussing all things resilient, reliable and severe-weather ready as it pertains to one of of your most important investments: YOUR HOME! This is a work product of Knockout Inspections. Our company has a team of in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators ready to answer any and all of your questions. Give us a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.