How FEMA Helps Families After a Storm

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience a disaster, always contact your insurance company in addition to FEMA

There Are Many Ways FEMA Helps Victims Of Damage And Flooding

When a weather disaster happens in San Diego, CA, residents are quick to rally around one another and offer support as families prepare for the process of rebuilding. Another great source of support is the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Often, FEMA's fast-acting and dedicated workers are first on the scene and available to offer aid where applicable. 

First Response

When the agency arrives at the scene of a disaster, they will start making appointments with homeowners to assess damage. They are trained to do several things as they are assessing the situation. These tasks include:

• Scan the scene, including the neighbors.
• Carry a camera and notepad.
• Enter the home and document the damage, room by room.
  

On the initial FEMA visit, homeowners should have documentation that they own the home. Following the initial visit, adjusters will inspect further.
Disasters can create many hazards in a home. As the family looks forward to cleanup, they should also work with disaster restoration specialists who can first assess the situation, and then provide professional clean up services.

Adjusters

The FEMA adjusters will measure rooms and get details regarding damaged materials such as carpets and windows. Everything that needs to be replaced will received detailed documentation. Following documentation, a dollar value is assigned to the value of each claim.
The homeowner's personal insurance will pay out claims first. If the homeowner doesn't have insurance, or is underinsured, then the agency will provide financial assistance to help replace what was lost. It's important to understand that the assistance program won't provide for all losses incurred, but only those deemed to be necessary and serious.
Experiencing a disaster such as a flood is never easy, but anyone going through one should know help is available. If you experience a disaster, always contact your insurance company in addition to FEMA. Combined, they can assist in getting you back on your feet.