ISO Ratings

Fire is the single largest cause of property loss in the United States. In the last decade, fires have caused direct losses of more than $120 billion and countless billions more in related costs. More importantly, each year fire kills approximately 3,000 people, including 100 firefighters, and injures over 20,000 people.

Collecting Information

The Insurance Services Office (ISO) collects information on City fire-protection efforts in communities throughout the United States. In each of those communities, ISO analyzes the relevant data in three major areas: the Fire Department operations, water system, and communications, and then assigns a Public Protection Classification (PPC) ranging from 1 to 10. Class 1 represents exemplary public protection, and Class 10 indicates that the area's fire-suppression program does not meet ISO's minimum criteria. PPC ratings have a direct bearing on the cost of property insurance for every home and building in a community.

Public Protection Classification

In 2013, the City of Melissa was inspected by the ISO to determine the Public Protection Classification. Effective July 1, 2013, the ISO PPC rating will be lowered from a 3 to a 2. Of the over 46,000 communities nationwide rated by ISO, fewer than 1% are rated a 2 or better. For example, in Collin County, Plano, Frisco, and Wylie have ISO 1; and Allen, Fairview, McKinney, and now Melissa are an ISO 2.

Lowering the Public Protection Classification 

The lowering of the Public Protection Classification rating indicates an improvement in the fire protection level and an appropriate water supply to protect the structures within a community, and an improved rate impacts homeowners and commercial businesses directly by insurance policy rates. The average savings is dependent on many factors including the type of construction, age, and value of the structure, insurance carrier, and many other items. The ISO 2 rating will take effect in July, 2013. Prior to that date, the information is available to all insurance companies and is well-publicized by the Texas Department of Insurance through the State Fire Marshal's Office. Most insurance companies review the rating prior to setting new rates.

"Mayor Greer, the City of Melissa City Council, and City Manager Jason Little are to be credited with the financial support of the Melissa Fire Department and the required foresight of the water requirements to enable the city to achieve this rank and recognition" Stated Fire Chief Harold Watkins. "In addition, the Members of the Melissa Fire Department are to be commended for their hard work in preparation and instituting the policies that have made this grade possible."

Request a New Classification

You are encouraged to contact your insurance carrier to request the new classification be included in your policy effective July 1, 2013. Residents and business owners should check with their insurance agents and verify the new rate and related lower insurance premiums.