July 16, 2021 Staff Curated Feed
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Answers to “your flood-related questions” from Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Representative for the 12th District of Michigan:

“Debbie here, checking in on folks in the Southeast region as we deal with more severe storms and flooding throughout the area. Please stay safe and continue to document and estimate the costs of your damage so you can apply for FEMA assistance.

As storms continue, remember to bring any valuables to higher ground and protect any paperwork, photos, and other items from water damage. Please be sure to stay safe and follow these tips from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

During Floods:

    • Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Disconnect all electrical equipment.
    • Do not walk-through moving water. Six inches is enough water to knock you down.
    • Do not drive in flooded areas. Six inches of water can cause you to lose control and two feet of water can sweep away your car. Remember: Turn around, don’t drown.
    • Listen to local media reports for information about if the water supply is safe to drink.
    • Stay out of flood waters because they can be contaminated by hazardous liquids and may contain sharp debris.
    • Report and stay 25 feet away from downed power lines.

After Floodwaters Recede:

    • Use caution when reentering a home or building that has been flooded. Return home during the day so you do not have to use lights. Leave the area immediately and call the gas company or police or the fire department if you smell gas or suspect a leak.
    • Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid electrical lines, debris, insects, and wild or stray animals.
    • If returning home, follow these CDC cleaning recommendations for washing and sanitizing flooded areas of the home.

Below are FAQs about next steps in the process of securing assistance from FEMA if your home has been damaged. If you have a question that is not answered below, please call our office at (313) 278-2936 and a member of our team will provide assistance.

FAQ: Michigan Flooding and FEMA Assistance

How do I apply for FEMA assistance?

    • Individuals in Washtenaw and Wayne Counties can apply with FEMA the following ways:

What documents do I need to open a FEMA assistance case?

    • You will need a government ID, your household address, and estimated costs of the damage.

Do I need to be a US citizen to apply for FEMA assistance?

    • To apply for FEMA assistance, at least one person in your household must be a US citizen, even if that person is a minor.

How long will this process take to upload my documents?

    • If you have all the correct documentation, it should take about 10 minutes to open and submit a case.

Do I need to take pictures of the damage to be considered for FEMA assistance?

    • No, FEMA does not require photos of the damage to be considered for any assistance, though cost estimates and/or receipts for the damaged items is helpful.

What happens once I submit my documentation?

    • Once you submit your documents, you will be contacted by a FEMA inspector to schedule an inspection, which will likely be done virtually. Once registered will be contacted by FEMA inspector.
    • Individuals who opt for direct deposit FEMA payments will receive the relief in as little as 24 hours after eligibility is determined.
    • Individuals who opt for checks or additional options will receive the relief in 10-14 days after eligibility is determined.
    • Continue to stay in contact with FEMA via 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) regarding your case and for any appeals.

What do I do if more damage happens to my property?

    • This is not a ‘one and done’ type of assistance. Remain in contact with your FEMA inspector and/or fill out another damage submission if you identify more damage and/or additional costs occur due to flooding.

Is the FEMA assistance the same as flood insurance?

    • No, FEMA assistance is different and will not fully cover any damages, it will just assist with the costs.

Can my small business receive FEMA assistance?