New Jersey building codes & insurance rules
Top areas
Long Beach Island, Atlantic City, Cape May, Asbury Park
IBHS ranking
NJ ranked 4th nationally for building code strength
NJ FAIR Plan
Provides coverage where private insurers won't
Post-Sandy market
Massive shutter adoption since Sandy (2012)
Price gouging law
N.J.S.A. 56:8-107 — penalties up to $20,000 per violation
Top shutter type
Storm panels and accordion shutters
Everything New Jersey homeowners need to know
Hurricane Sandy's devastating impact on Long Beach Island, the Barnegat Bay communities, and the Raritan Bay area created one of the largest single-event surges in demand for hurricane protection products in US history. New Jersey contractors reported 300–400% increases in shutter inquiries in the 18 months following Sandy.
Many Jersey Shore communities now have local ordinances encouraging or requiring storm shutters for new construction in flood zones. Homeowners with FEMA flood maps indicating Zone AE or Zone VE should consult with their insurer about wind protection discounts available through the FAIR Plan.
2026 installed prices in New Jersey
Prices below reflect 2026 quotes from licensed contractors operating in New Jersey. Coastal county prices are typically 10–20% higher than inland areas due to salt-air material requirements and higher labor demand.
| Shutter type | Price range | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Storm Panels | $15–$30 / sq ft | Budget-conscious, any opening size |
| Accordion Shutters | $26–$35 / sq ft | Permanent, fast deployment |
| Roll-Down Shutters | $45–$100 / sq ft | Maximum protection, clean look |
| Bahama Shutters | $18–$32 / sq ft | Decorative, windows only |
| Colonial Shutters | $20–$35 / sq ft | Historic homes, classic look |
| Hurricane Screens | $20–$40 / sq ft | Lanais, large openings |
| Impact Windows | $40–$100 / sq ft | No-deployment, permanent |