FAQs

Q: Is it possible to pre treat our homes with Phos Check?

A: We are aware that there are many companies promoting Phos Check as a home wildfire defense. We have yet to see any data that it is as effective, or a replacement for the home hardening steps recommended on this website, which are based on research and real-world experience of those that we learned from at IBHS and NFPA. We are not saying that Phos Check for residential fire protection doesn’t protect homes in some circumstances, we just haven’t seen conclusive research on how effective it is in the real world, especially in a wind-driven fire. We believe that anyone considering any kind of retardant or sprinkler system should do their diligence on its effectiveness, and only consider it after they have done well-proven steps to harden their homes.

Q: Do you recommend roof fire sprinklers if we have reserve water tanks?

A: Once again, the experts recommend that you do all the proven steps to harden your home before you consider a sprinkler system. Here’s a link to the NFPA fact sheet on sprinklers. It's worth reading. The main takeaway: "Given the potential issues regarding performance, it’s recommended that use be a supplement to, and not a replacement for, already proven mitigation strategies, such as the reduction of potential fuels throughout the home ignition zones, along with removal of roof and gutter debris, and use of noncombustible and fire/ember- ignition resistant building materials and installation design details.”