What To Expect From FEMA Following a Natural Disaster

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

When a significant disaster occurs in Biscayne Park, FL, some of the first responders may be professionals from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA representatives may help arrange for shelter and assistance for recovery, and they also work with local companies and inspectors to determine the extent of the damage. As you wait for this official to show up at your home, there are a couple of steps you should take:

• Gather documents to establish proof of residency. These could be the deed to the home, tax records, insurance paperwork, or a mortgage payment book.
  
• Take pictures of damages throughout your home and keep an inventory of belongings before you get rid of or move anything.
  
• Remove trash and damaged property from the home and yard.
  
  
  

After contacting a government official, you should receive a pamphlet in the mail with further information about your responsibilities and what to expect from government programs.

The Initial Walk-Through

One of the first things a FEMA inspector does at your home is to look at the damage, taking pictures and generally assessing the destruction. Next, the inspector meets with you (the homeowner) to complete paperwork. If you can't prove that you own the property, there may be very little the official can do to help you.

Collaboration Between Professionals

With ownership established, the inspector walks through the property and writes down all of the damage. At this point, the government inspector and the insurance adjuster may collaborate. If you plan to work with local storm and flood damage professionals, this is a good time to contact them for their input. Remember the government and insurance officials aren't necessarily looking out for your best interests. A company representative you've hired has more motivation to give you a full description of the work to be done.

If natural disasters have led to flooding in your Biscayne Park, FL, home, knowing what to expect from FEMA and other officials can reduce some of the stress. Above all, make sure you have the paperwork you need to prove ownership of the property.