Inspectors Visiting Damaged Property
Release Date: November 13, 2002
Release Number: 1439-07
» More Information on Texas Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
Corpus Christi, TX -- More than 90 inspectors are in the field, serving those whose property was damaged by the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding that began on October 24.
If you live in any of the seven declared counties and are waiting to have your property inspected by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration (SBA) or insurance companies you need to know some things about the inspection process and the documents you'll need to show inspectors.
After applying for disaster assistance by calling the FEMA registration number, 800-621-FEMA (3362), an inspector will contact you to schedule an appointment to view the damaged property. The damage inspection is part of the recovery process. It is important to provide a current phone number where you can be reached.
FEMA inspectors, SBA loss verifiers and insurance adjusters are required to carry identification. If an inspector comes to your home, ask to see identification.
When the inspector calls, be sure to provide clear, accurate directions to the damaged property. A street address is needed. Post office boxes do not show locations. You should be prepared to provide written confirmation of ownership, such as a tax receipt, deed, mortgage payment book or home insurance policy that inclues the damaged property's address.
Homeowners and renters must show that the damaged property was their primary residence at the time of the disaster. Inspectors will accept a valid driver's license or current utility bill (such as an electric, gas or water bill) as proof of occupancy.
The inspector will arrive at the scheduled time. If you see inspectors in your neighborhood, realize that they are following schedules and can only inspect scheduled houses.
The inspection is free. It generally takes 30-40 minutes and involves inspecting all areas of your property and a review of your records. The inspector puts information into an electronic device that sends the information to FEMA. This speeds up the process of providing assistance to disaster victims. The inspector does not determine whether an applicant is eligible for assistance.
If you have applied for an SBA low-interest loan, an SBA loss verifier will contact you to schedule an appointment after SBA receives your completed loan application. SBA loan eligibility is based on verification of damages to real estate and personal property.
Last Modified: Monday, 21-Apr-2003 14:50:52