FEMA May Help with Septic Tanks and Wells
Release Date: May 28, 2002
Release Number: 1412-21
» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms and Tornadoes
Poplar Bluff, MO -- If your septic tank or well is damaged as a result of the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding beginning April 24 and continuing that struck 48 declared counties in Missouri, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
For homeowners who live in counties that were designated for Individual Assistance, a federal disaster-assistance home-repair grant program covers well and septic system damage. Those eligible may receive funds to pump septic tanks, perform required repairs, or even replace the system. Damaged private wells that are the sole source of water for the house also may be repaired or decontaminated with grant funds.
"We don't want anyone living in a house with contaminated water or exposed to raw sewage," said Carlos Mitchell, federal coordinating officer. "If you have applied for state and federal disaster assistance you should advise the FEMA inspector that you have a private well and septic system."
Home-repair disaster-assistance grants are made to restore the home to a livable condition. To qualify for a limited home repair grant, the applicants must own the home, and the home must be their primary residence. Grants are not intended to restore a home to pre-disaster condition and cannot be used for cosmetic repairs or repairs covered by insurance.
Any eligible resident who suffered damage or losses from the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding beginning April 24 and continuing can register for disaster assistance by calling the FEMA toll-free registration number 1 800 621 FEMA. The number for hearing- or speech- impaired is (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, until further notice.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2003 14:02:38