Lower fire insurance rates likely in Forsyth

CUMMING - Results of Forsyth County's first fire insurance rate study in 13 years should mean lower premiums.

The Insurance Services Office (or ISO) rating has improved.

Capt. Jason Shivers with the Forsyth Fire Department says the rating dropped to a "5" for property previously classified as a "6" and for those places with a "9" classification as well.

Insurance companies were able to begin recognizing the new rate effective July 1 but Shivers says you'll have to contact your provider to find out exactly how it will affect your rates.

This study audited Forsyth County in three key areas of public
safety: fire protection, E-911 service and water service. The analysis was followed by months of study and evaluation by ISO, which resulted in an improved ISO rating. ISO ratings are on a scale from 1 to 10, with lower numbers representing better levels of protection. Ratings are based upon a number of factors, including fire response and equipment, E-911 call handling and efficiency, and fire hydrant volume and pressure availability.

County officials say residents and business owners should contact their insurance provider for specific information on how the rate change may impact their insurance premiums.

"The results of the inspection and rating reflect the dedication our troops have to the protection of life and property from the ravages of fire and further reflects the strong commitment the Board of Commissioners and the county administration have to our citizens' safety," Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. "The county has experienced remarkable growth over the years, so to not only maintain our rating but also improve it says a lot about how the county has worked to grow services along with the population increase."

The last time an ISO study was conducted in Forsyth County was 1996.