The North Carolina Department of Insurance has awarded the Lincolnton Fire Department a Class two insurance rating. The department, previously rated at a four (received in 2008), has increased staffing, training and added improved technology reporting to help lower their rating. The rating system ranges from one (highest) to ten (not recognized as a certified fire department by the state).

“Having a lower insurance rating allows homeowners and business owners in the City of Lincolnton a lower insurance rate just by being located within our district” said Chief Heavner of the Lincolnton Fire Department. “I’m extremely proud of our staff for working so hard every day to make this a possibility. I think this reduction is a testament of the entire city staff and shows our commitment and dedication to our town.”

The lower rating, from Class 4 to Class 2, is particularly good news for business and commercial property owners in the City of Lincolnton. The new rating means that commercial insurance rates should decrease as a result of improved fire protection in the city limits. Lincolnton residential insurance rates won't be effected since fire insurance reductions stop once the ratings reach a 6.

"I'd like to congratulate Chief Heavner for the department's performance and for the hard work of all the department members," said Commissioner Causey. "The citizens in the Town of these districts should rest easy knowing they have a fine group of firefighters protecting them and their property in case of an emergency."

The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) conducts inspections as part of the NC Response Rating System (NCRRS) and provides insurance ratings from 1 to 10 for all fire departments in the state. The ratings are used by insurance companies to determine underwriting risk and establish insurance rates. The lower the rating the better, with a Class 1 rating representing superior fire protection. The fire protection class rating is an important factor used to determine local residential and commercial insurance rates.  While lower ratings do not necessarily indicate poor service, a higher rating does suggest that a department is overall better equipped to respond to fires in its district. Higher ratings can also significantly lower homeowners insurance rates in that fire district.