THE IMPORTANCE OF CHECKING YOUR FURNACE, WINTER IS COMING!
[https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20231016/importance-checking-your-furnace-winter-coming-0]


Release Date: 
October 16, 2023 

CHICAGO --- The weather might be crisp and lovely right now, but
Chicago’s fierce winter winds and snow are on their way. Before it
gets colder, take this time to check your furnace and any other
appliances that may have been damaged in the June 29 – July 2
flooding disaster. If your furnace isn’t working and it isn’t
covered by your insurance, you may be eligible to receive help from
FEMA to repair or even replace it. 

Assistance from FEMA is limited to only owner-occupied primary homes,
not vacation homes or second homes. In addition, home repair
assistance is available to homeowners only for uninsured or
underinsured disaster-damaged items that make your home safe, secure,
and habitable. Households with damage to living spaces in a basement
– including owner-occupied garden units - may also be eligible for
FEMA assistance to help cover those losses. 

When you apply for assistance, be sure to indicate the furnace and
other essential electrical appliances damaged during the summertime
flooding. If you have already repaired or replaced the furnace, be
prepared to provide FEMA with receipts. Otherwise, provide FEMA with
valid estimates from certified contractors or suppliers.

If you discover your heating systems need replacing after you have
already received a FEMA grant, you can use the FEMA appeals process to
request additional assistance. To learn more about the process, visit
www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/after-applying/appeals
[http://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/after-applying/appeals].

If you have yet to apply for FEMA assistance, go online to
www.DisasterAssistance.gov [http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov], call
800-621-3362, or use the FEMA App on your phone. If you use a video
relay service or captioned telephone service. give FEMA your number
for the service. For in-person assistance, visit a Disaster Recovery
Center. The registration deadline is OCTOBER 30, 2023.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in
Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728
[http://www.fema.gov/disaster/4728].