Inspections Due For Disaster-Damaged Homes
Release Date: April 10, 2006
Release Number: 1634-004
» More Information on Tennessee Severe Storms and Tornadoes
JACKSON, TENN. -- Tennesseans who suffered losses in the recent tornadoes and who have registered for federal and state disaster assistance can expect to have their damaged property inspected to verify losses.
"The inspectors size up the amount of damage experienced by an applicant and help determine their eligibility for aid, said Michael Karl, the official in charge of recovery operations for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Housing inspectors will usually schedule appointments 7-10 days after an applicant registers with FEMA on the toll-free telephone line, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Checks to those who are eligible for assistance will follow in another 7-10 days.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also sends loss verifiers to inspect the property of those who have submitted completed loan applications.
Applicants will be asked to verify they own or occupy the damaged property, and that it is their primary residence. A mortgage statement or lease agreement will usually suffice. Federal and state officials stress that under no circumstance will inspectors request any form of payment for their work.
To avoid delaying receipt of assistance, it is important for applicants to keep their appointments with inspectors or, if unable to do so, to contact FEMA on the toll-free registration line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The number for those with hearing or speech impairments is TTY 1-800-462-7585.
"We advise applicants to get identification from everyone who claims to be a damage inspector," said James Bassham, director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. "All inspectors and verifiers carry photo identification. If an inspector is not displaying identification, ask to see it."
Individuals may register for assistance by calling the toll-free number daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, 13-Apr-2006 08:37:39