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“ Concrete is by its nature a very durable and resilient material regardless of the hazard,” explains Evan Reis, Executive Director of the U. S. Resiliency Council.“ So, from the performance side of things, concrete homes make a ton of sense.”
Reis, a structural engineer with more than 30 years of experience, leads the U. S. Resiliency Council, a California-based nonprofit that champions more robust building practices.
“ With more people moving to hazard-prone areas and the increase in natural disaster-related losses,” says Reis.“ Something has got to change.”
Insurance in retreat
Further complicating the crisis is the growing difficulty of securing insurance for homes in high-risk areas. According to the First Street Foundation, nearly one-third of homeowners in the continental US already face challenges finding affordable coverage. In California, where insurers began canceling policies ahead of the most recent wildfire season, the situation has become dire.
“ Insurance rates are skyrocketing because of the increased risk. At the same time, lenders don’ t want to be left holding the bag,” says Reis.“ The good news is that they are both beginning to recognize that they can greatly reduce their risks if homes are built with the right materials.”
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