What is typical here
- Government
- Security-Widefield is unincorporated El Paso County; Fountain is an incorporated city
- Housing
- Many 1950s to 1970s ranch homes and split-levels, plus subdivisions from the 1990s onward
- Residents
- A large share of renters and military families, given the proximity to Fort Carson
- Water features
- Fountain Creek runs along the area, with smaller drainages feeding it
- Permits
- Generally the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department; confirm for your address
Older ranches versus newer subdivisions
| Mid-century ranch homes | Newer subdivisions |
|---|---|
| Low-slope or moderate roofs, sometimes with several layers of old shingles | Steeper architectural shingle roofs, often on two-story homes |
| Older single-pane or early replacement windows that break in hail | Vinyl siding and vinyl windows that crack in hard hail |
| Basements or crawlspaces with older drainage around the foundation | Engineered drainage with detention ponds and channels |
| Mature trees in some yards, smaller trees in others | Young trees and long wood fence lines exposed to wind |
| Aluminum or wood siding that dents or splits | HOA or metro district rules on exterior changes |
Who to call depends on where you are
Because Security-Widefield is unincorporated, road and drainage issues in public areas generally go to El Paso County rather than to a city. Fountain residents contact the City of Fountain. Utility providers also differ across this part of the county: some addresses are served by city-owned utilities, some by a different electric or gas company, and some by local water districts. Your bill is the quickest way to know whom to call for a downed line or a gas smell.
Many homes here are rentals, including houses owned by people who were stationed at Fort Carson and moved on. When storm damage hits a rental, the tenant reports and protects belongings while the owner arranges structural repairs. Clear written communication matters more when the owner is far away.
Older ranch roofs can hide surprises. If a home has multiple layers of roofing, a hail replacement usually includes tearing all of them off, and the decking underneath may need repair. Ask the insurer and contractor to address both before work starts.
Before the next storm season
General information for Colorado Springs, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.