I have some information on this topic I can share. Builders have no problem installing non vinyl siding or stronger shingles. Problem is consumers don’t want to pay the increase. Hardie board siding which is usually the next step up is around 10-18k extra.

Class 4 asphalt shingles which are very much resistant proof with waterproof underlayment is about 3k more.

95% of consumers deny these upgrades and would “rather deal with insurance if we ever get there”

Look up the city of Calgary’s disaster relief and mitigation work. They are trying to make changes with building codes. They currently have incentives for anyone who upgrades their roof shingles. The insurance companies are 100% behind this but end of the day it a very simple cost benefit analysis. What would the extra cost of these upgrades on all consumers cost in total (including people who are now priced out) to the benefit of less insurance claims versus dealing with the 10,000 or less claims once a year.

Also mandating building codes is done at the provincial level so unless the city of Calgary is able to create a regional building code, does it make sense for homes in Fort Mac to be built the same way as homes in Calgary ?