Insurance Commissioner John W. Oxendine recently joined Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company Regional Vice President Chris Molinari to announce the approval of the first green homeowners’ insurance policy in Georgia. This new coverage approved by Commissioner Oxendine became available this year, and will enable Georgia homeowners with conventional homes to rebuild to the latest environmental standards after a loss.
If home is damaged (partial loss), customers may choose from a menu of items
- Energy Star rated appliances, lighting, electronic equipment and roofing / insulation
- An Energy Star upgrade 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
- Elimination of ozone-depleting refrigerants and fire extinguishing agents, replaced with environmentally friendly alternatives
- If the home is destroyed, customer can choose to have it rebuilt to USGBC LEED Certified standards
- How much does it cost? On a $1 million home, the green coverage would cost $70 – or about what we’re paying now to fill up a tank of gas. There is a minimum of $25 on less expensive homes and a maximum of $600 on a very expensive home.
