2019 Storm Recovery Checklist

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

If you find yourself in a disaster situation, remember that FEMA can help

FEMA

Sometimes, the weather gets the better of us, and we are left dealing with the repercussions. Thankfully, there are many programs that help people recover after heavy storm damage such as FEMA. Whether you live in Hibsaw, OK, or somewhere different altogether, the same basics can be helpful for coping with a stressful time. The location should only matter in paperwork.

1. Submit for Help

After the damage has occurred, whether from a flood or otherwise, you can submit an appeal to FEMA for assistance. Consider these first:

• You must have a United States citizen in the household.
  
• Your property is in an area that has been
• Presidentially declared a disaster.
  
• Your insurance does not cover necessities that the disaster has brought about.
  
  

If you do not submit to the organization, you may find yourself in a bad position. There should be no shame in asking for help when needed. Flooding, and other disasters, are a time when we can pull together. Other organizations can be contacted to help once you are safe and everything is accounted for to repair.

2. Inspect Your Home

A scheduled home inspector can come and see your property within 10 days of the submittal. You can expect the inspection to run on average for 30 minutes, and the inspector may photograph your property. This will include both your home and the items inside. You may be asked to present documentation on whether you own or rent.

3. Accept the Assistance

Afterward, assistance may be released to you. This can come in the form of lodging reimbursement or renting assistance to keep you housed. It can also extend further through financial assistance with replacing household items, childcare, funeral expenses, or healthcare. Finally, you may be assisted with storage.

If you find yourself in a disaster situation, remember that FEMA has been set up to help for these purposes. Make sure to submit the right paperwork and prepare for a home inspection.