Fireman’s Fund Expands Green Credit For Oregon Homeowners

Fireman’s Fund Insurance Co., the nation’s first provider of green insurance, has expanded the credit for green homeowners in Oregon to include certification by Earth Advantage.

Fireman’s Fund is offering this coverage to homeowners who currently own green homes, and has also expanded the upgrade coverage for those who want to upgrade their residences with green features after a loss using environmental safety and efficiency standards. If a home is completely destroyed, it can now be rebuilt to green standards, certified as having Earth Advantage Green Certification or Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design (LEED)status.

Homeowners whose residences are already green will be offered a five percent discount on their homeowner premium.

“The credit for green homeowners promotes energy efficiency and healthy living and offers an incentive to homeowners and builders to own and build environmentally friendly homes,” says Candace Jennings, president of Jennings Insurance Agency.

A green home uses less energy, water and natural resources, and creates less waste. Studies have shown that residents have better overall health and productivity as a result of reduced exposure to mold, mildew and indoor toxins. According to the National Center for Healthy Housing, homeowners can expect substantial health gains by building green.

With this coverage, homeowners will be able to rebuild and replace with green alternatives such as:

• Energy Star-rated appliances, lighting, electronic equipment and roofing/insulation
• An Energy Starupgrade of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems
• Forest Stewardship Council certified wood for millwork, ceilings, siding and framing, including bamboo flooring
• Non-toxic, low odor paints and carpeting
• Water-saving plumbing fixtures
• Flush out of reconstructed space with 100 percent outside air
• Debris removed after damage to a home will be recycled and diverted from landfill

The Earth Advantage Institute is a non-profit group in Portland Oregon. They authored the energy performance score (EPS) which is a home energy rating score similar to miles per gallon for autos. Fireman’s Fund offers the 5 percent credit to homes with an EPS score of 75 or less.

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Source: Fireman’s Fund, Jennings Insurance

Topics Homeowners Oregon