HOUSTON – There have been a lot of questions circling around on social media about debris removal and if FEMA really wants you to go ahead and get rid of the debris. We are getting some answers and advice on what you can expect when your inspection time does come around.
Issue: Debris Removal -- now or later?
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Realtor Miranda Gilbert wrote:
“If a person is filing for FEMA assistance, can they go ahead and get rid of debris in their home or do they have to wait for an inspector? The FEMA website says they can remove, but some residents are saying the FEMA inspector told them it had to stay.”
Answer: Trash it! (Then prepare properly for the inspection.)
FEMA says they don’t want people to wait for the inspector or insurance agent to begin their cleanup and removal because it slows down their recovery and could make for a health situation with mold.
Below are some tips about what to expect when you plan your inspection:
Once applicants have registered:
• An inspector will call you to schedule an appointment to visit the damaged property when you can also be there.
• The inspector will look at the damage to your house or apartment and determine if it is in a livable condition by checking the building and its systems. Damage to major appliances -- washer, dryer, furnace, refrigerator, stove -- will be assessed. You should tell inspectors about any important losses such as clothing, medical equipment, tools needed for your job and educational materials.
• Homeowners and renters with private septic systems and wells should point out these facilities. FEMA assistance may be available to repair or replace damaged systems.
• Applicants can help speed the inspection by having documents -- mortgage payment, utility receipt, lease, etc. -- ready to show proof of ownership or occupancy to the inspector. Having insurance papers available if possible is also helpful.
FEMA inspectors have agency photo identification and will never charge a fee for any service. If you suspect fraud from any inspector or other person offering assistance, report them to the nearest law enforcement agency and to the FEMA toll-free Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721.
When a FEMA housing inspector visits your home, someone 18 years of age or older who lived in the household before the disaster must be at the home for the scheduled appointment. The inspector will ask to see:
• Photo identification.
• Proof of ownership/occupancy of damaged residence (structural insurance, tax bill, mortgage payment book/utility bill).
• Insurance documents: home and/or auto (structural insurance/auto declaration sheet).
• List of household occupants living in residence at time of disaster.
• All disaster-related damages to both real and personal property.
As always, keep sending us your questions at AskAmy@click2houston.com and we will work to find answers.