FEMA Inspectors
An Important Part Of Recovery
Release Date: June 10, 2004
Release Number: 1520-009
» More Information on Indiana Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is sending contract inspectors throughout the designated counties to examine structural damage to dwellings and other damage to personal property as a result of the Memorial Day weekend storms and tornadoes. These inspectors will visit current applicants and assess the extent of damage to a home or building to determine if it's safe, sanitary and functional. They will also report on other losses or damage to personal property.
When the inspectors arrive, applicants should be prepared to show proof of ownership and occupancy through copies of bills or other official documents. "There is no need to wait for a FEMA inspector's visit before beginning cleanup," FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer, Justo "Tito" Hernandez added. "It's recommended that you photograph the damage prior to cleanup. You should also keep receipts for completed disaster damage repairs."
Here's how the process works:
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Within 7 to 10 days of registering, a FEMA inspector will call you to arrange an appointment to visit your damaged dwelling and verify losses.
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The inspection is mandatory. Before an application can be completed and approved, the location must be inspected to verify the nature and extent of damage suffered by those who have registered for federal disaster assistance.
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The U.S. Small Business Administration sends loss verifiers to inspect damaged property of those who have submitted completed loan applications. The Red Cross also sends inspectors to meet with disaster victims. Local building and safety inspectors may come to see if damaged structures are safe.
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Inspectors will be able to show you official identification to prove their identity. If inspectors asking for access to your home cannot show you a photo ID, do not let them into your home and call your local law enforcement agency. Damage inspectors do not recommend repairs or charge for their services.
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If you qualify for FEMA Individuals and Households Program, you will receive a grant check and separate letter explaining how you may use the check. You may get checks from other programs later.
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You will be asked to sign a document stating that you, or your child, is a lawful resident in the U.S. at the time of the disaster. You will need to present proper identification.
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Homeowners may use FEMA housing repair grants for essential repairs to make the residence safe and sanitary. The housing repair grant is only for repairs to make primary rooms functional, such as the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom.
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You may be provided a grant for rental assistance if your home or apartment is unlivable because of the disaster.
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Disaster Recovery Centers may be located in your area to provide a place you can ask questions and talk with disaster recovery specialists face-to-face. Call 1 800 621-FEMA (3362) for locations.
- FEMA assistance does not make you whole again, but it can give you a helping hand on the road to recovery.
FEMA INFORMATION
After you have applied for assistance, the FEMA Disaster toll-free line registration/help, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585, is a very useful resource. You may ask about the status of your application or how money from various assistance programs may be used, get information on the flood insurance program, or get materials on low-cost ways to reduce future disaster damages.
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 the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Thursday, 10-Jun-2004 10:42:23