Disaster Relief Homeowner FAQs

Yes. If your home was damaged or destroyed during the fire, you may be able to obtain financial assistance for temporary housing. FEMA and/or your homeowners’ insurance policy may cover such costs.

Yes. If you were required to evacuate during the fire, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover the cost of temporary housing. If your insurance is not sufficient, FEMA may be able to reimburse you for your hotel or alternative lodging expenses. Keep your receipts.

Yes. If your home was destroyed during the fire, you must continue to make your mortgage payments. In certain situations, you may be able to negotiate with your financial institution to obtain a forbearance agreement (postponing your payments). In addition, some financial institutions have disaster related mortgage repayment programs that can provide a temporary respite from monthly mortgage payments. You should contact your mortgage servicer (the company where you send your monthly payments) to discuss possible mortgage relief options.

Yes. If your personal belongings were damaged or destroyed by the fire, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover the cost to replace your belongings. If your insurance is not sufficient to cover the cost of such items, FEMA or SBA Loans may be able to cover the cost of replacement items. Keep your receipts. You may also be able to obtain community specific grants created to assist fire survivors. Check your local resources.

Yes. If your insurance coverage is not sufficient to cover the cost of rebuilding you home, FEMA and SBA Loans may be able to help cover the cost to rebuild or repair your home.

Yes. Generally, a homeowner must obtain a building permit before conducting a construction project to repair or rebuild their home.

Yes. Homeowners are responsible for having all fire debris safely and properly removed from their properties. Often local government authorities offer a debris removal program. If you intend to undertake debris removal yourself, please know that you must comply with all state and local requirements to ensure the protection of public health and safety. Discuss all requirements with your local county contact prior to undertaking any removal: http://wildfirerecovery.org/debris-removal/debris-removal-contacts/

Yes. You do have to continue to pay your property taxes if your home was destroyed in the fire; however, the County Assessor’s Office will reassess the current value of your home and adjust your tax bill accordingly. The County Assessor’s Office will mail you an adjusted bill some time before the end of the year, so, please make sure that you have provided them with your current mailing address.