Presidential Declaration - FEMA help

do you feel comfortable describing your damage? just general terms :)

"ever since the storm I now get seepage every rain" is really scary. ground water breaking our foundations? eesh.

keep us posted as to FEMA response, please. thinking they'll care more about foundation that all the rest, but what do i know.

 

Wonderful news!! I called yesterday and they called back last night. Someone will be here at 6 AM (eek) on Monday. I have pretty much the same situation as you did. Can I ask how they estimated your payment??

  

OK, on to FEMA. I have to say the whole experience was rather interesting. The guy was here at six a.m. and the first 1/2 hour or so was spent on my porch while he gathered info (ID's, proof that I own and live here, and insurance info). He did ask to come upstairs to measure that the basement footprint is the same as the upstairs. Then we went downstairs. He spent quite a while looking for the "best" water line and found one that I would've ignored. I thought I topped out at around 18", he said more like 19 - 22". He said I will get credit for the washer/dryer, water heater, stove, fridge, furnace and one of the boilers even though they are still working as they expect them to need maintenance/cleaning. No credit for the boiler that serves the rental unit - that would go to an SBA loan if necessary. He also counted every electrical outlet for replacement credit. Didn't say much as to personal effects, except for Lauren's toys. One thing that is interesting is that unlike an insurance co. where once you cash the check, your claim is closed, you can discover something later and call back for more help. I have no idea what to expect, but I will say I was rather impressed with the process. The guy who was here is with a recovery firm who is contracted by FEMA. He seemed very knowledgable and it was amazing how fast and easy the whole process was. Will keep you posted.

2 things:

1) fyi, like harp said, rental properties do not get FEMA grants but are eligible for SBA low interest loans. the tenants can apply for grants for dislocation, some personal property, ruined cars, i.e. basic livlihood issues.

2) i had a similar, very positive, experience w/my State Farm claims adjuster. actually 2x, 2 issues this summer.

i've never made a homeowners claim and anticipated a somewhat adversarial encounter, but it was the best customer service experience i've had in a looong time. even wrote a note to his boss.

 

 

Wow, Citizen, glad to hear SF was so good to you, and I love to hear you wrote a note. I LOVE to do that for good people, but most people will take the time to bitch, but not to compliment. Kudos to you and SF!

 

Seriously, thanks to all for caring - you guys are great!