Permits Required For Rebuilding Storm-Damaged Structures 

Release Date: October 28, 2003
Release Number: 1490-67

» More Information on North Carolina Hurricane Isabel

Raleigh, NC-Homeowners, landlords and business owners are urged to check with local and county governments regarding permits before repairing or rebuilding a structure damaged by winds or flooding.

There can be strict local requirements on how and where structures may be renovated.

"Building codes often require steps to reduce the likelihood of damage from future storms," said Gracia Szczech, the official in charge of the federal response for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). "Disaster aid can help people affected by winds or floods get back on their feet, but in the long run we have to build smarter and safer. That is better for the people who live and work in those buildings, and better for taxpayers, too."

Local and county governments use permits to ensure, among other things, that any rebuilding meets the necessary requirements of floodplain ordinances. Information on requirements is available from local building permit offices.

"Storm-damaged buildings can be rebuilt in many ways to make them safer," said Dr. Kenneth B. Taylor, the official in charge of the state response. "They include elevating the building or relocating it, among other things.

"We urge all rebuilding contractors and property owners to visit their local permitting offices and obtain the necessary permits before beginning the rebuilding process," Taylor added. "Prior planning and good information will produce a structure that is likely to stay safe, sanitary and functional in the next major disaster."

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 29-Oct-2003 08:49:53