Hurricane Helene has left a significant impact on our Western North Carolina community, affecting countless homeowners and families. As members of the Home Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains, we understand the challenges you face during this difficult time. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate the recovery process, from contacting your insurance company to exploring state and nonprofit resources. Our goal is to provide you with the information and support you need to rebuild and restore your home.
Step 1: Contact Your Insurance Company First
Your first course of action should be to reach out to your homeowners or flood insurance provider. This is a crucial step because:
- FEMA requires you to exhaust your insurance options before providing assistance.
- Documentation is key: Take detailed photos of all damages and keep receipts for any repairs or disaster-related expenses. This evidence will support your claims and applications for assistance.
Step 2: Apply for FEMA Assistance
Even if you have insurance, it’s important to apply for FEMA assistance as soon as possible. FEMA may cover expenses that your insurance policy does not. You can apply in three main ways:
- Online: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Mobile App: Download the FEMA App on your smartphone.
- Phone: Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
When applying, be prepared to provide:
- A description of the damage to your property.
- Your address at the time of the disaster and your current contact information.
- Your Social Security number.
- Insurance information, including policy number and the name of your agent or company.
- Annual household income.
- Bank account information for direct deposit of funds.
Step 3: Explore State Resources
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NCDPS) offers additional resources to assist you:
- Website: Visit ncdps.gov/helene for state-specific information and assistance programs.
- Hotline: Call 2-1-1 or visit unitedwaync.org to connect with local resources and support services.
These resources can provide you with additional support, including temporary housing, food assistance, and counseling services.
Step 4: Consider Nonprofit Organizations
Nonprofit organizations can offer immediate and long-term assistance:
- American Red Cross: Provides emergency shelter, food, and emotional support.
- The Salvation Army: Offers food services, shelter, and aid with essential needs.
- BeLoved Asheville: A local organization dedicated to helping those most affected by Hurricane Helene, focusing on critical necessities like food, water, healthcare, and warm housing.
How to Reach Out:
- Contact Local Nonprofits Directly: Use the 2-1-1 hotline or visit unitedwaync.org to find organizations in your area.
- Volunteer Assistance: Call Crisis Cleanup at 844-965-1386 for free services like debris removal and tarping roofs.
Step 5: Look into SBA Disaster Loans
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers disaster loans that can be a significant source of recovery funds for homeowners:
- Low-Interest Loans: These loans cover repairs to your primary residence and replacement of personal property.
- Long-Term Repayment: Terms can extend up to 30 years, easing the repayment process.
How to Apply:
- Register with FEMA first to become eligible.
- Apply Online: Visit disasterloan.sba.gov.
- In-Person Assistance: Visit a local Disaster Recovery Center for help with your application.
Step 6: Follow Up and Stay Informed
After applying for assistance, it’s essential to:
- Check Your Application Status:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).
- In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
- Be Available for Inspections: FEMA inspectors will visit your property to assess the damage. Ensure you are present or have a representative available during the inspection.
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage
Knowing what your insurance policy covers can help you manage your expectations and recovery plans:
- Wind Damage Coverage: Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover wind damage caused by hurricanes, including damage to your home’s structure and water damage from rain entering through wind-created openings.
- What’s Not Covered: Standard policies generally do not cover flood damage or storm surge. Separate flood insurance is required for these types of damages.
- Additional Coverages to Consider:
- Comprehensive Auto Insurance: Covers damage to vehicles from wind and water.
- Additional Living Expenses: Covers temporary housing costs if you’re displaced.
- Food Spoilage and Debris Removal: Some policies may cover these, but limits may apply.
FEMA Assistance Details
FEMA provides various forms of assistance to help you recover:
- Financial Aid: Funds for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.
- Application Process: Easy and accessible through online, mobile app, or phone methods.
- Eligibility: Even if you have insurance, you may still qualify for FEMA assistance for expenses not covered by your policy.
Key Points:
- Documentation: Keep detailed records, photos, and receipts to support your FEMA application.
- Inspections: Be prepared for FEMA inspectors to assess your property damage.
State Help in North Carolina
North Carolina offers state-specific assistance programs:
- North Carolina Department of Public Safety: Provides resources and information on recovery efforts.
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance: Available for those who have lost employment due to the hurricane.
- Infrastructure Support: The U.S. Department of Transportation has allocated funds for road and bridge repairs, aiding community recovery.
Nonprofit Assistance
Nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in disaster recovery:
- BeLoved Asheville:
- Mission: Dedicated to creating an inclusive society and providing essential aid.
- Services: Offers food distribution, temporary housing solutions, and healthcare support.
- Contact Information:
- Address: 32 Old Charlotte Hwy, Asheville, NC 28803
- Phone: (828) 571-0766
- American Red Cross and The Salvation Army: Provide emergency shelter, meals, and emotional support. Have served thousands of meals and provided shelter to affected families.
Conclusion
Recovering from Hurricane Helene is a challenging journey, but you’re not alone. By taking proactive steps—contacting your insurance company, applying for FEMA assistance, exploring state resources, and reaching out to nonprofit organizations—you can access the support you need to rebuild and restore your home. The Home Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains is committed to standing with you every step of the way. Together, we can overcome these challenges and strengthen our community for the future.