Property inspections are a necessity for Arkansas residents rebuilding following recent severe storms, tornadoes and flooding according to officials of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM). Registering with FEMA for disaster assistance triggers a series of actions leading to an inspection of your property by a FEMA contract inspector.
Once registered, homeowners and renters referred to FEMA’s Individual Assistance program should hear from an inspector within 7- 10 days. The inspectors will schedule an appointment with the applicant. If an applicant has evacuated from his/her home and is unable to meet an inspector at the property, arrangements can be made for someone else to accompany the inspector.
Inspections are conducted by companies under contract to the government, and all FEMA representatives carry photo identification. Never give information to someone without seeing official identification. If in doubt, call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. A FEMA inspector simply verifies and documents damages and does not make decisions about any benefits you may receive.
There is no charge for official inspections. Homeowners should show proof of ownership, and homeowners and renters should be able to prove occupancy. If insurance papers are available, residents should show them to the inspector.
The FEMA inspection process will include a search for structural damage of the building. The inspector will look at the foundation, roof, flooring, drywall and ceilings of the structure. The heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical systems also will be reviewed. The inspector will create a record of all disaster-related damages. A survey of damaged personal property, clothing and automobiles also may be conducted.
More than one inspection may be required, depending on the type of aid under consideration. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may require its own inspection before issuing a low-interest loan.
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