Key Terms & Definitions

Mitigation

Actions taken to reduce or prevent damage from natural hazards—such as strengthening a home to better withstand high winds or storms.

Retrofit

A structural upgrade or improvement added to an existing home to make it stronger or safer (for example, reinforcing the roof or installing impact‑rated windows).

Single‑Family Home

A freestanding residential structure designed for one household. This is the only type of home eligible for SC Safe Home grants.

Multifamily Home

A residential building designed for more than one household (e.g., duplexes, triplexes, apartments). These do not qualify for SC Safe Home grants.

Primary Residence

The home where the homeowner lives most of the year. Vacation homes, rentals, and investment properties are not eligible.

Declarations Pages (Insurance)

The summary pages of a homeowner’s insurance policy that list coverage amounts, deductibles, policy limits, and insured property details.

1040 (IRS Form 1040)

The standard federal income tax return form used to report annual income. SC Safe Home requires the most recent 1040 to verify household income.

Resilient Mitigation

Upgrades designed to help a home resist damage and recover quickly after a storm—such as stronger roof systems or impact‑rated openings.

Sustainable Mitigation

Mitigation improvements that not only strengthen the home but also provide long‑term durability and reduced maintenance needs.

Wind & Structural Retrofit Terms

Hurricane Shutters

Protective coverings installed over windows and doors to shield them from windborne debris during storms.

Protective Barriers

Any approved system that protects exterior openings—such as shutters, panels, screens, or impact‑rated glass.

Roof‑to‑Wall Bracing (Roof‑to‑Wall Connections)

Hardware or connectors that strengthen the connection between the roof structure and the walls, helping prevent the roof from lifting off during high winds.

Roof Deck Attachment

Fasteners or adhesives that secure the roof decking (the plywood or OSB panels under the shingles) to the roof framing. Stronger attachment reduces the risk of roof failure.

Secondary Water Barrier

A protective layer installed under the roof covering to prevent water from entering the home if shingles or tiles are damaged or blown off.

High Wind‑Rated Roof Covering

Shingles, metal panels, or other roofing materials tested and approved to withstand high wind speeds.

Bracing Gable Ends

Reinforcing the triangular wall sections at the ends of a roof to prevent collapse during strong winds.

Exterior Openings

Any opening in the building envelope, including windows, doors, skylights, and garage doors.

Impact‑Rated Windows, Doors, and Garage Doors

Openings designed and tested to withstand windborne debris impacts and high wind pressure.

Insurance & Financial Terms

Tax Credits

State or federal tax reductions offered to homeowners who complete certain qualifying mitigation improvements.

Mitigation Credits (Insurance Credits)

Discounts offered by insurance companies when a home includes approved wind‑resistant features, such as impact‑rated windows or a fortified roof.