What West Virginians Should Expect After FEMA Registration

CHARLESTON, W. Va. — After disaster survivors have registered for federal disaster assistance, FEMA will ask them to provide information on disaster damage, proof of identity and residence, insurance and other documentation, to determine eligibility.

A FEMA contracted housing inspector may contact you to make an appointment to view disaster damage. It is important to provide good contact information at the time of registration.

Applicants unable to be present for the inspection can designate someone in the household over 18 years of age who was living in the household prior to the disaster. If an inspection cannot be made, FEMA may not be able to finish processing the application.

Survivors should not wait to start their cleaning up and making repairs to their home. They should save their receipts and document damage with photos. The inspector is thoroughly trained and uses specialized software to verify disaster damage quickly. The inspection may only last 10 or 20 minutes. The inspector does not make decisions on eligibility. You will receive a letter from FEMA explaining your eligibility for assistance.

Homeowners may use FEMA housing assistance grants to repair or replace:

1. Key systems such as plumbing, electrical and heating 
2. Structural components such as roofs, outside walls and foundations
3. Windows, doors, floors, walls, ceiling, cabinetry
4. Septic and well systems
5. Renters and homeowners may qualify for grants for other disaster-related necessary expenses and  serious needs, such as clothing, child care, room furnishings and appliances, medical and dental costs, vehicles and moving and storage expenses........

Both homeowners and renters must provide identification and proof of occupancy, such as a lease, rent receipt or utility bill. Additionally, homeowners will be asked to provide proof of ownership, such as a property deed or title, mortgage payment book, property insurance policy or tax receipts.

Important documents destroyed in the disaster may be duplicated with help from