I applied to FEMA and was told that an inspector will schedule a visit to my home. Why do I need an inspection and what does a FEMA inspector look for?

FEMA home inspections help determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, and livable, and to verify disaster-caused damage. Specifically, the FEMA inspector will:

• Verify your name, address, contact information, and insurance;
• Confirm the individuals living in your disaster-damaged residence; bedrooms occupied; clothing, medical, dental, transportation, or miscellaneous losses; and items you purchased as a result of the disaster (e.g., chainsaw, dehumidifier);
• Assess your pre-disaster residence’s structure, furniture, and appliances for damage caused by the disaster, as well as undamaged items;
• Document your pre-disaster residence’s square footage, foundation, and structural type (e.g., one or multiple stories). Record the cause of damage, applicable water levels, impacted utilities, and accessibility features; and
• Confirm with you all damage has been viewed, and describe next steps in the FEMA process.

Not all losses require an inspection. You should also monitor your mail or your FEMA Online Account (http://www.disasterassistance.gov) and respond to any requests from FEMA for additional information quickly.