Interesting tidbit in the New York Times recently about hurricane-proof homes. Unfortunately I can't throw you a link to the article [subscription only], but I did find some commentary on the blog, Building Big Easy, with some excerpts from the story.

According to the Times article, home builders are constructing homes that can withstand winds of more than 130 m.p.h., and, when placed on concrete stilts, can avoid most flood water. In addition, new models are becoming a little more attractive that storm-proof homes of the past, thereby making them even more attractive in the eyes of homeowners.

While Building Big Easy author [an architect in New Orleans] has some reservations about the new homes, insurers are bound to love up and coming structures that can better withstand intense storms. Between builders and insurers, perhaps some industry competition will heat up in the South yet...

[Hat tip]: The Insurance Coverage Law Blog