FEMA Home Inspections May Be Needed for Disaster Assistance in Winnebago Co.

Residents in Winnebago County affected by the July 2024 storms and flooding may need a FEMA home inspection to qualify for assistance.

Apply for FEMA Assistance First

Before a home inspection can be scheduled, you must apply for FEMA assistance. You can do this online at DisasterAssistance.gov, through the FEMA mobile app, or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Remember to file an insurance claim if you have homeowner's or renter's insurance.

What to Expect During a FEMA Inspection

Within ten days of applying, an inspector may contact you to schedule an appointment.

Be aware that the call could come from an out-of-state number. The inspector will verify your information and schedule a visit to assess the damage reported on your application.

Preparing for the Inspection

The inspector will typically arrive within ten days of scheduling the appointment. The inspection itself takes about 45 minutes, and you'll need to provide a photo ID.

You can have someone accompany you to help with communication. If you can't be present, designate a third party in writing beforehand.

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The inspector will verify your information, insurance coverage, and ownership or occupancy status.

They will then walk through your home to assess the damage, taking photos of the interior and exterior. Don't worry, they won't enter crawl spaces or climb on your roof.

After the Inspection

The information gathered is just one factor used to determine your eligibility for assistance. You will receive a decision letter by mail, but you can also create an account on DisasterAssistance.gov to track your application status online.

If you have any questions about the inspection process, don't hesitate to call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Remember, FEMA inspectors will always carry an ID and never ask for bank information or charge a fee.