Inspectors to Visit Storm-Damaged Residences
Release Date: July 22, 2001
Release Number: 1378-25
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms & Flooding
Charleston, WV -- West Virginia residents in the 22 disaster-declared counties who have had damage to their homes from recent severe storms and floods and who have applied for federal disaster assistance can expect inspectors to call.
Inspectors are now in the area examining damaged property. They will verify the nature and extent of the damage inflicted by the storm.
"You must apply for disaster assistance before inspectors will view your damaged property," said Carlos Mitchell, federal coordinating officer with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
You can apply by calling the FEMA toll-free registration number 1-800-462-9029. Persons who are hearing or speech impaired may call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. The phones are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.
An inspector will determine the extent of damage to the house and whether it is livable by checking the structure and the systems. Damage to major appliances - washer, dryer, refrigerator, stove, etc-- will be assessed. Other serious needs, such as lost or damaged clothing, also are reported.
Homeowners and renters with private septic systems and wells should advise inspectors of the existence of these items. FEMA assistance may be available to repair or replace damaged systems.
State and federal disaster recovery officials said that applicants can speed the inspection process if they have certain documents available to show the inspector. These documents include proof of ownership for property owners or proof of occupancy for renters. Insurance papers should be shown if they are available.
Disaster officials urge applicants to ask for proper identification before allowing unfamiliar persons claiming to be inspectors into their homes.
"These inspectors will have specific agency identification showing that they are in fact authorized to do an inspection," said Stephen S. Kappa, director of the West Virginia Office of Emergency Services. "Also, official inspectors will not be charging any fees to perform this service. If someone tries to do that, they should be reported to the nearest law enforcement agency."
State and federal officials note that more than one agency may be inspecting damaged property. FEMA schedules its inspections within seven to ten days of the time a resident registers by phone. Other agencies that may be looking at damages include the U.S. Small Business Administration, the American Red Cross, and/or local building officials.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 21-Oct-2003 10:24:04