Hurricane Recovery Guide

Recovery Timeline at a Glance

• Do not return home until local officials say it is safe.
• Watch for downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage.
• Wear boots and gloves when entering a flood-damaged home — floodwater is contaminated.
• Document all damage with photos and video before touching anything.
• Do not use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors — carbon monoxide kills.

• Register at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 1-800-462-7585).
• You can also register via the FEMA app on iOS or Android.
• Have your Social Security number, address, insurance info, and bank account ready.
• Register even if you have insurance — FEMA may cover what insurance doesn't.
• FEMA Individual Assistance can cover temporary housing, home repairs, and other needs.
• Deadline to register is typically 60 days after the disaster declaration — don't wait.

• Call your homeowner's or renter's insurance company immediately — delays can hurt your claim.
• For flood damage, contact your NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) provider separately.
• Request a claim number and the name of your assigned adjuster.
• Keep all receipts for emergency repairs, temporary housing, and food.
• Do not make permanent repairs until the adjuster has inspected — document everything first.
• If your claim is denied or underpaid, you have the right to appeal or hire a public adjuster.

• SBA disaster loans are available to homeowners, renters, and businesses — even if you don't own a business.
• Apply at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov or call 1-800-659-2955.
• Homeowners can borrow up to $500,000 for real estate and $100,000 for personal property.
• Interest rates are as low as 1.75% for homeowners and 4% for businesses.
• Applying for an SBA loan does not obligate you to accept it — apply to keep your options open.
• SBA loan application deadline is typically 60 days after the disaster declaration.

• Never pay more than 10% upfront or $1,000 — whichever is less — before work begins.
• Get at least three written estimates before signing any contract.
• Verify contractor licenses at your state's contractor licensing board website.
• Do not sign over your insurance benefits (Assignment of Benefits) to a contractor.
• Be wary of door-to-door contractors who appear immediately after a storm.
  Weather
• Report fraud to your state attorney general or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline: 1-866-720-5721.

• Disaster-related stress, anxiety, and grief are normal — seek help without shame.
• Call the Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (call or text, 24/7, free).
• FEMA's Crisis Counseling Program provides free counseling in declared disaster areas.
• Children and elderly adults are especially vulnerable — watch for behavioral changes.
• Limit news consumption and take breaks from social media during recovery.
• Connect with your community — local churches, community centers, and Red Cross chapters offer support.

Recovery Resource Directory

Key Phone Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

Before the Storm — Prepare Now

The best recovery starts with preparation. Use these tools before hurricane season to reduce your risk.