Below is a very important excerpt from a recent FEMA release regarding FEMA inspections and how that process works.

“Every resident who contacts the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to apply for disaster assistance will receive an important follow-up call. That call will come from a FEMA inspector to arrange a visit to verify the applicant’s property damage and losses.

Damage inspections are an important part of the disaster assistance process, say officials with the local Department of Homeland Security  and FEMA.

“We welcome FEMA’s assistance in the aftermath of the devastation Hoosiers experienced in last month’s storms,” said IDHS Executive Director Joe Wainscott, Jr., Indiana state coordinator for disaster assistance programs. “We urge residents with property damage to apply with FEMA and then be ready to meet with an inspector.”

In preparation for a FEMA inspector’s visit, applicants are encouraged to have documents such as mortgage payment receipts, utility receipts or a lease available to prove that they own or occupy the damaged property. Insurance documents may also be helpful.

The inspector will check the building structure and its systems, major appliances and any damaged septic systems and wells. Residents should tell the inspector about other important losses such as clothing, medical equipment, tools needed for a trade, and educational materials.

“FEMA’s inspection process is designed to protect individuals’ privacy and security,” said Steve DeBlasio, head of the FEMA disaster recovery effort. “Our inspectors arrange appointments by phone before visiting. They do not charge for their services. They carry FEMA identification and can state your FEMA case number for further verification,” he explained. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the American Red Cross, and local building officials may also need to perform inspections and will have proper identification.”