Disaster Relief For North Carolina Homeowners After Hurricane Helene

We will guide you on how to document damage, file insurance claims, and apply for FEMA aid. You'll also find information on resources for utility support, mortgage relief, and more. No single guide can provide you with all of the information that you will need, but it is our goal to help you get started down the road to recovery.

If your home or personal belongings were damaged by Hurricane Helene, taking quick action can significantly impact your recovery process and potential insurance claims. Here's what you should do:

1. Photograph All Damages: Before cleaning up, document every damaged area and item with clear photos from multiple angles. These images are essential for validating insurance claims and demonstrating the full extent of the loss.

2. Create a Detailed Inventory: Make a list of damaged or missing items, including descriptions, estimated values, purchase dates, and any other relevant details. A thorough inventory supports accurate reimbursement and smooths the claims process.

3. Gather Receipts: Collect receipts and any relevant documents that show proof of purchase for damaged items. Also, keep receipts for any temporary repairs to demonstrate to insurance providers that you acted to prevent further damage.

4. Start Cleanup Safely: Begin the cleanup process to prevent additional damage but prioritize safety. Only enter structurally safe areas, wear protective gear, and avoid any compromised areas until professionals assess them.

Taking these steps will not only aid in the recovery process but also facilitate a smoother interaction with your insurance providers and any available assistance programs.

• Crisis Cleanup (1-844-965-1386): Severe home damage cleanup assistance.

If your home was damaged, filing an insurance claim should be your first step. Many homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage, so check to make sure your policy does, or if you have separate coverage. Insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), usually covers flood-related damage. If you don't have flood insurance, you may need to rely on FEMA assistance for flood-related expenses, which will be covered in the next section.

Many homeowners face delays or denials when filing claims, often due to confusion over what's covered. What is covered under flood and wind damage protection can be especially confusing. Understanding your policy and keeping detailed documentation are essential steps to help secure fair compensation.

• Document Damage for Claims: Use the photos, item lists, and receipts gathered in your initial assessment to support your claim, and keep records of all interactions with your insurance company, including phone conversations.
• Know Your Policy Coverage: Review your homeowners insurance and any flood policy you may have to identify what's covered. Temporary housing costs, for example, may be covered in cases where homes are uninhabitable, depending on your policy.
• Appeals: If your claim is denied, remember that you have the right to appeal. NFIP appeals must typically be filed within 60 days, so respond quickly if your insurance provider does not cover a part of your claim.

• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for flood insurance coverage
• North Carolina Department of Insurance Consumer Helpline (1-855-408-1212) provides assistance with insurance claims, such as homeowners insurance and disaster-related claims.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Understanding Your Homeowners Insurance
• National Association of Insurance Commissioners: Tips for Filing an Insurance Claim

If you don't have flood insurance or need additional help, applying for FEMA assistance following Hurricane Helene is a critical step. FEMA offers grants for various recovery needs, including temporary housing, essential home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses.

After registering, individuals may qualify for financial support to address storm-related damage to their residence and belongings. FEMA can also assist with locating temporary accommodations. Be sure to apply within 60 days of the disaster declaration to maximize eligibility for assistance.

Tip: If your FEMA application is denied, don't give up. Denials can be appealed within a specified period. Keep detailed records of all communications with FEMA. If you have questions or need support with your appeal, please contact us at North Carolina Legal Services.

• FEMA: Disaster Assistance
• FEMAAppeals.org: Create and generate a printable/downloadable FEMA appeal letter

As homeowners begin the recovery process after Hurricane Helene, managing utility bills can pose a significant challenge. Fortunately, several programs are available to help alleviate energy costs:

• Crisis Intervention Program: This program provides emergency assistance for heating or cooling crises. It is available year-round for income-eligible households and can be accessed through your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
• Duke Energy Progress Share the Light Fund: Financial support for heating and cooling expenses to eligible Duke Energy customers. Contact Duke Energy directly for application details and eligibility requirements.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance: This program provides temporary unemployment benefits to individuals whose employment was impacted by the disaster. Apply through the North Carolina Division of Employment Security.
• Food and Nutrition Services Recipient Disaster Resources: This program offers temporary food benefits for eligible recipients affected by Hurricane Helene, available through your local DSS office.

Please note: Beginning in December, assistance from the Low Income Energy Assistance Program may also become available. This program offers a one-time winter payment to help with heating costs, typically available from December to March for qualifying households. Applications can be submitted online or at local DSS offices.

If your home has been severely damaged and this impacts your ability to make mortgage payments, contact your mortgage servicer as soon as possible. Lenders often offer forbearance or other relief options to help customers manage payments during a recovery period.

Tip: In some cases it may be wise to consider forbearance options early to avoid falling behind on payments. Failing to make a payment can result in a negative report on your credit, and could ultimately result in foreclosure. Be sure to keep thorough records of all communications with your mortgage company, including emails and written documentation of agreements.

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for mortgage assistance programs.
  • FHA Resource Center (1-800-304-9320): Disaster assistance programs for mortgage and foreclosure.
• Homeowner's HOPE Hotline (1-855-890-8073): Support for foreclosure prevention.

If you're uncertain whether you need legal help after a hurricane, consulting with an attorney can clarify your rights and ensure that you don't miss any critical steps in the recovery process. At North Carolina Legal Services, our experienced attorneys are here to support you with the complexities of hurricane damage claims, including mortgage relief, property repairs, insurance claims, and compensation for lost belongings. If you rent rather than own, see our companion guide on hurricane disaster relief for North Carolina renters. Whether you're facing substantial property damage or just need guidance on where to start, we're ready to provide the advice and support to help you take the next steps toward recovery.

• FEMA
  • Disaster Assistance
  • FEMA Helpline: 1-800-621-3362
• American Red Cross
  • Red Cross Shelters: Currently Open
  • Disaster Services Relief Hotline: 1-800-RED-CROSS
  • Safe and Well: a web system that helps reunite displaced loved ones
    • English
    • Spanish
• National Disaster Legal Hotline: 1-888-743-5749
• Crisis Counseling Assistance Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
• Next of Kin Registry: missing, injured or deceased family members your emergency contact to help if you or your family member is.
• How To Replace Important Documents: Replace important documents like birth certificates, driver's license, passport, etc.
• Food and Nutrition Services Recipient Disaster Resources
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance