State flooding updates
Good evening all,
We are passing along some information from the state related to flood assistance and damage reporting. Please, please, please call your insurance and log damage on the City website; the more damages logged, the better chance we have of making a strong case to FEMA for additional funding.
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Below are several updates from the State regarding flood recovery, as well as clarification on the importance of residents documenting and reporting property damage.
FEMA Major Disaster Declaration Update
Earlier today, Governor Braun provided an update on the State’s request for a major disaster declaration from FEMA. The State is currently collecting damage estimates from local communities to submit to the federal government.
Following the State’s official submission, they anticipate hearing back from FEMA within 7–10 days.
State Disaster Relief Fund
The State has also launched the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) to provide assistance to residents impacted by the flooding. Eligible residents may qualify for emergency aid grants of up to $5,000.
It is important for residents to understand that SDRF assistance is limited to uninsured damage to eligible items at a primary residence. Eligible expenses may include:
- Certain home repairs
- Essential furnishings
- Essential appliances
- Essential tools
- Debris removal
- Medical devices
- Essential transportation
Additional information about eligible items is available here: SDRF Eligible Items.
Residents can apply here: SDRF Application.
After an application is submitted, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) will review the information to determine eligibility and may request additional documentation or information to process the claim.
City Damage Assessment
We are asking all residents who experienced property damage from the flooding to submit their information through the City’s damage assessment form.
Residents should submit here: Disaster Damage Reporting Form
This assessment will help the City determine the location, nature, and severity of damage sustained during the disaster. It will also help identify the needs of individuals and communities as recovery efforts move forward.
Importantly, the information collected will be used by the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services (DBNS) to identify locations where Substantial Damage Evaluations may be needed.
Residents should be encouraged to document their damage and submit the assessment even if they are unsure whether they will qualify for financial assistance. Having accurate information about the extent of damage will help inform both the City’s response and the State’s request for federal assistance.