Improved ISO Insurance Classification
What is ISO?
Insurance Services Office (ISO) rates fire agencies through its PPC (Public Protection Classification) program on a scale of 1 to 10. This classification determine the cost of your fire insurance premium.
A classification of 1 is the highest classification, which demonstrates the highest level of fire protection available in a given area. A classification of 10 demonstrates that there is very limited or no fire protection available and/or the area lacks an adequate water system. ISO ratings are reviewed every 10 years.
These classifications are applied to all buildings in a Fire agency boundary within 5 miles of a fire station or within 1,000 feet of a fire hydrant..
Prior to 2015, West Side Fire District was given an ISO classification of 5 for all buildings within 5-miles of a fire station and 1,000 feet from a fire hydrant. For homes more than 1,000 feet from a fire hydrant the classification was 8B.
In June of 2015, West Side Fire was reviewed by ISO and received an improved classification from 5 to 3 on ali buildings within 5 miles of a fire station effective October let 2015. There is now no required distance from a fire hydrant and there are no buildings outside the 5-mile limit from a fire station therefore all buildings in the Fire District receive credit for this new classification.
This improved classification is a direct result of West Side Fire Districts continued dedication to improve its overall operation since its last ISO classification. In addition, lSO reviewed proposed improvements and new programs made possible by the recently approved lea by its constituents. These additional proposed improvements contributed to the Fire Districts new classification.
How does this affect you?
Approximately 90 percent of insurance providers use ISO classifications to determine the cost of your fire insurance premium. You should inform your insurance provider of the Fire Districts improved classification and request a review of your policy. lt is hoped this improved classification will result in savings to you on your fire insurance premium. The cost of fire insurance premiums vary depending on the value and age of the building
Questions - call the Administration Office at 541-386-1550