Operation Blue Roof is a program offered by FEMA through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to eligible homeowners and landlords. It provides a temporary covering of blue plastic sheeting to help reduce further damage to property until permanent repairs can be made.
The blue plastic sheeting is installed using strips of wood that are secured to the roof with nails or screws. The homeowner/landlord must legally agree to allow the Corps contractors access to the property by signing a Right of Entry (ROE) form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Right of Entry?
The Right of Entry (ROE) is a legal requirement that allows Corps workers to access your property and assess damage to your home. The ROE also allows contracted crews to work on your roof.
How does a homeowner, landlord or renter get a Blue Roof?
Residents sign up for the program at “Right of Entry” centers throughout the affected area. “Right of Entry” centers are named for the Right of Entry form that residents fill out granting permission for the Corps of Engineers and its agents to go onto individual properties to install the temporary roof. Residents can call toll free 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258).
Who can get a Blue Roof?
This program is for primary residences or a permanently occupied rental properties with less than 50 percent structural damage. Vacation rental properties are not eligible for the program. Once the blue roof is installed, the structure must be habitable. Not all roof types qualify for the program. Roofs that are flat, made of clay, slate or asbestos tile do not qualify. Major storm debris must be removed for the roof to qualify, as contracted crews only have the ability to remove minor debris from damaged roofs.
How long until a roof is repaired?
The Corps covers roofs in the hardest hit counties first. The Corps will respond to every person who has completed a ROE as rapidly as possible. Every property that has a signed ROE will be visited.
If a home is being rented, can a tenant sign a right of entry form?
Yes the tenant may sign the form, but must have a letter from the landlord stating that the tenant has permission to sign for the landlord.
Will the work be charged to my insurance?
There is no charge to the homeowner or landlord. However, you should contact your insurance company. They may want to document the damage and assist with permanent repairs.
How long will a Blue Roof last?
The plastic is a reinforced, water-proof material that is designed to last 30 days. We recommend homeowners make arrangements for permanent roof repairs within 30 days if possible.
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FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). For TTY call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan.
However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to SBA loan officers to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.