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Resources: When Your Home is Impacted by a Natural Disaster

When a natural disaster strikes, the damage to your home can feel overwhelming. From navigating insurance claims to finding temporary shelter, the aftermath is often filled with uncertainty. Fortunately, there are a range of financial, governmental, and community-based resources available to help you recover. Below is a guide to support you in the days, weeks, and months following a disaster.

 

Financial Services: First Steps After a Disaster


1. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Your insurance coverage is designed specifically for situations like this. As soon as you are safe and have access to communication, call your insurance provider to begin the claims process. Be ready to:

  • Provide your policy number.

  • Share initial details of the damage.

  • Schedule an adjuster visit (if possible).

Tip: Document the damage with photos or video before making any temporary repairs.

 

2. Inform Your Mortgage Servicer

If your home is mortgaged, your servicer needs to know about the situation. You may be eligible for:

  • Temporary mortgage forbearance.

  • Waived late fees.

  • Loan modification or restructuring.

Early communication with your lender can protect your credit and reduce stress.

 

3. Rebuilding Together

https://rebuildingtogether.org A nonprofit offering free home repairs to qualifying low-income homeowners, especially seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. After a disaster, they often coordinate community-driven rebuilding events.

 

4. HERE2HELP: Financial Counseling

Sponsored by Fannie Mae, this free housing counseling service is available to both homeowners and renters impacted by natural disasters. Certified financial counselors will:

  • Help assess your current situation.

  • Assist with budgeting and credit concerns.

  • Develop a personalized recovery plan.

 

5. Watch Out for Scams

Disaster zones often attract scammers posing as contractors, FEMA agents, or relief organizations. To protect yourself:

  • Don’t pay upfront for services.

  • Verify credentials and licensing.

  • Be skeptical of unsolicited offers of help.

 

When your home is impacted by a natural disaster there are a range of financial, governmental, and community-based resources available to help you recover.

Government Assistance: Know Your Options When your Home is Impacted by a Natural Disaster


https://www.disasterassistance.gov Your one-stop portal to access federal disaster aid programs, including FEMA, HUD, and SBA assistance.

 

2. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)

📞 (800) 621-3362 |  FEMA.gov If a federal disaster has been declared in your area, FEMA may offer:

  • Temporary housing assistance.

  • Grants for home repairs.

  • Replacement of essential household items.

  • Crisis counseling services.

Apply online or via phone as soon as possible.

 

3. HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development)

HUD.gov HUD helps affected homeowners through:

  • Foreclosure relief.

  • Emergency housing vouchers.

  • Access to HUD-approved housing counselors.

 

4. SBA (Small Business Administration)

DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov SBA provides low-interest disaster loans for homeowners and renters, not just businesses. You may qualify for:

  • Up to $200,000 for home repair/replacement.

  • Up to $40,000 for personal property loss.

 


Emergency Services, Shelter & Utilities


1. Call 211 (United Way)

211.org Call or text 211 to connect with local assistance including:

  • Emergency shelters.

  • Utility shut-off prevention.

  • Food distribution centers.

  • Transportation help.

Available 24/7 in most areas.

 

2. American Red Cross

RedCross.org The Red Cross mobilizes quickly after a disaster to provide:

  • Temporary shelters.

  • Hot meals and hygiene kits.

  • Health and mental wellness services.

  • Emergency supplies like blankets and first aid.

 


Final Checklist: Immediate Steps to Take


  •  Ensure your safety and the safety of your family.

  •  Document damage thoroughly with photos/videos.

  •  Contact your insurance provider to begin a claim.

  •  Notify your mortgage servicer and explore forbearance options.

  •  Apply for federal assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov.

  •  Seek shelter, food, and medical services through 211 or Red Cross.

  •  Consult with a financial counselor for guidance on recovery planning.


You Are Not Alone

Recovery after a natural disaster is a long and often emotional journey. Take it one step at a time, lean on reputable resources, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. These programs exist to support you, and many are just a phone call or click away.

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