06/09/2026
We are very proud to share that after a thorough grading last year, our Department has been rated as an ISO 4. Here is a detailed description of how we received this grade, along with what it could mean for you.
How does an ISO rating affect you and your insurance bill? When homeowners receive their property insurance bill, one factor many may not realize impacts the cost is their community’s ISO rating. The Insurance Services Office evaluates fire protection services across the country; the score/rating plays a significant role in determining property insurance rates.
What is an ISO Rating? ISO ratings range from 1 to 10: Class 1 is superior fire protection, and Class 10 does not meet minimum standards. Insurance companies use this rating to assess risk. The better the fire protection system in an area, the lower the risk of major fire loss — and that can translate into lower insurance premiums.
ISO ratings are determined by evaluating three main categories: 1. Fire Department (50%), which includes the number of firefighters, training and certifications, equipment and apparatus, and response times. 2. Water Supply (40%), which ISO reviews for hydrant spacing and maintenance, water pressure and flow, and availability of water in rural areas. 3. Emergency Communications (10%), which examines 911 dispatch capabilities, staffing levels, and backup systems.
In rural parts of Alabama, ISO ratings can vary significantly from one area to another. Areas without hydrants or with volunteer-only departments may receive higher (worse) classifications. For homeowners, moving from a Class 7 to a Class 5 area could mean noticeable insurance savings. A Class 9 or 10 rating can lead to substantially higher premiums. Some insurers may limit coverage options in Class 10 areas.
For local governments, improving an ISO rating often means investing in additional firefighters, updated equipment, expanded water infrastructure, and enhanced training. Cities with full-time fire departments and extensive hydrant systems typically score better than rural communities that rely on tanker trucks and volunteer crews. An ISO rating is more than just a number — it reflects how prepared a community is to respond to fires. For homeowners, that number can directly affect what they pay in insurance each year.
We, at Green Pond Fire & Rescue, are very thankful for the community support and glad to see that support reflected in these ratings. We still have work to do, but we are glad to see where things are going.