FEMA Inspectors Visit Homes In Broome And Chenango Counties 

Release Date: January 2, 2007
Release Number: 1670-005

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ALBANY, N. Y. -- Inspectors from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are conducting damage assessments for homeowners and renters. This inspection is an important step in the recovery process and will help speed disaster assistance to those affected by the severe storms and flooding in November.

"We are working quickly to meet the needs of Broome and Chenango county residents who have lost so much,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Marianne C. Jackson. “When an inspector calls, an applicant can help speed their assistance by setting up a meeting quickly.”

After residents register with FEMA, inspectors visit homes by appointment only. When the inspector calls, applicants should provide clear, accurate directions to the damaged property and a current telephone number where they can be reached. A street address is needed. Do not use a post office box address.

All FEMA inspectors carry proper identification and applicants should ask to see it. If you have already begun cleanup or repairs to your home, show the inspector what you have done, and, if you have it, provide documentation of the work such as photos, contractor estimates and receipts.

The inspection is free. It generally takes 30-40 minutes, and consists of inspecting all areas of the home and personal property. The inspector enters damage-related information into a hand-held computer and sends that data to FEMA. The inspector does not determine whether an applicant is eligible for assistance.

FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident, initiates mitigation activities and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA works closely with state and local emergency managers, law enforcement personnel, firefighters and other first responders. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 02-Jan-2007 18:36:58