Recover and Protect Your Property Safely
Follow these steps from IBHS to safely secure, protect and begin to repair and rebuild your property.
Apply for FEMA and SBA disaster assistance -
Start your FEMA application at www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362
Even if you have insurance, apply for disaster aid at disasterassistance.gov.
Apply for The Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. Applying for SBA loans can open up additional assistance even if you don't take the loan. SBA loans can also provide additional funding up to 20% of a loan value for rebuilding projects to mitigate your home, including repairs and rebuilding that will meet the FORTIFIED Home™ standard.
If your home is damaged, do not answer no to housing assistance or rental assistance at this time. Those options can be used for temporary housing while you rebuild. By answering no, you may make yourself ineligible for some disaster assistance.
Insurance claims and Federal Disaster Assistance after Hurricane Ida
- File a claim with your insurer for both homeowners and flood insurance. Understand your deductibles. You will be responsible for these costs. Negotiate with your adjuster.
- Use FEMA's How Do I Start My Flood Claim? website to understand the insurance claims, repair, and rebuilding process.
- Use this checklist from FEMA to understand what you need when filing a flood insurance claim and how to negotiate with your insurance adjuster.
- Apply for FEMA disaster assistance (disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362). Applying will also allow you to apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, which offer low-interest rates.
- Avoid Fraud - Do not assign benefits to a contractor, called an Assigned of Benefits (AOB) contract. Talk with your insurance company about claims directly. Get three roof repair quotes in writing on company letterhead. Check for a home builder or roofer State license. Download our Fraud Checklist
- Re-roof to FORTIFIED standards to strengthen your home and be eligible for insurance discounts.
Tips to help you recover faster and rebuild stronger after Hurricane Ida
Avoid contractor fraud -
With the right questions, you can find a quality roofer or contractor, avoid fraud, and get a stronger roof to protect your family. Download the Contractor Fraud Checklist for in-depth steps to take after a hurricane.
Build back strong with FORTIFIED -
Now it is time to rebuild stronger. Upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof™ to strengthen your home against future storms, and save money on home insurance and taxes.
Use our Service Directory -
Find a FORTIFIED roofer or contractor. Make sure you are also working with a FORTIFIED Evaluator who can ensure your home meets the FORTIFIED standard. Without an Evaluator, you cannot have a FORTIFIED home.
Learn how to inspect your roof for damage safely.
Tax Relief -
If you were affected by a Presidentially declared disaster, you might qualify for tax relief by the IRS. Qualifying FEMA disaster relief payments can be excluded from taxable income. Contact a tax advisor.