Those who live in the Houston area and throughout Texas are often familiar with weather extremes and catastrophic events, including hurricanes, flooding and wildfires. The greatest concern when disaster strikes is typically getting loved ones and others to safety. However, when the event is over, people are too often left with massive destruction to their homes – or no home at all.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is typically able to come help after the state’s governor has asked the president to declare an area a disaster and the president has agreed to do so. Such a declaration allows FEMA to use its resources to provide financial assistance and human assistance on the ground. FEMA can also help people affected by the disaster get loans and grants to rebuild.
Many people believe that if they have homeowners’ insurance coverage, they are not eligible to get FEMA aid. That’s not necessarily the case. However, it is true that FEMA can’t cover any losses that are being covered by personal insurance policies.
When can FEMA supplement your insurance?
As a Texas homeowner with insurance, before you can apply for FEMA aid, you must first file a claim with your own insurer. You can then qualify for FEMA help if:
- You haven’t gotten an insurance settlement within 30 days of filing the claim.
- Your insurance settlement doesn’t cover all of your financial losses and expenses.
- You’re unable to find local “suitable rental resources” if your home is inhabitable.
It is important to file a claim with your insurer as soon as possible after a disaster. This way you’ll know what they will and won’t cover and whether you can get additional help from FEMA.
Dealing with the aftermath of a disaster can be overwhelming. Dealing with insurance companies can be complicated enough if damage is limited to your property. When a disaster affects an entire community, getting the help you need can seem to take forever – especially if you can’t live in your own home.
In some cases, insurance companies may not abide by the terms of their policy. If you believe that you have experienced such behavior, it can help to get legal guidance to help you secure the appropriate compensation.