1. Pre-Storm Planning & Preparation

Success in recovery begins long before a storm arrives. Proactive planning ensures a consistent, coordinated, and efficient response when it matters most.

Document Procedures: Develop written procedures for consistent Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage (SI/SD) determinations.
Establish Resource Mechanisms: Set up funding mechanisms in advance to meet critical deadlines, like the 180-day period for DRRA 1206 program.
Coordinate Agencies: Foster close collaboration between federal, state, and local partners for seamless implementation of aid policies.
Mutual Aid Agreements: Create agreements for post-disaster support from other communities and organizations.
GIS for Tracking: Use a geographic information system (GIS) to track inspections, permits, and damage status for each building.
Review & Update Plans: Ensure disaster recovery plans clearly outline permitting requirements within floodplain management codes.

2. Initial Response & Damage Assessment

Immediately following a storm, a rapid and organized damage assessment is critical for deploying resources and beginning the compliance process.

Deploy Impact Surveys: Immediately send code officers and building inspectors to perform initial impact surveys.
Request FEMA 1206 Mission: Submit a request for substantial damage inspections and floodplain reviews through the County to the State.
Understand NFIP Compliance Options: Be aware of the two paths for NFIP compliance: proactive inspections or waiting for permit applications.
Conduct Initial Assessments: Use initial assessments to identify potentially substantially damaged properties, which will require more detailed review later.
Gather Data: Collect crucial data, including photos and high-water marks, to support damage assessments.

3. Permitting & Substantial Damage Determinations

The permitting process is the foundation of a compliant recovery. It must be clear, consistent, and well-communicated to residents.

Permits for All Repairs: Require permits for all repairs beyond temporary measures to ensure proper oversight.
Prioritize Permit Types: Focus on issuing specific repair permits first to manage the high volume of applications.
Document Everything: Ensure all permits include substantial damage documentation, invoices, and cost estimates. The total cost of repair must be considered.
Use a Consistent Methodology: Apply a consistent method for calculating the market value of repairs and labor, using resources like RS Means.
Provide Clear Guidance: Clearly communicate application requirements to residents, including floor plan sketches, appraisals, and cost breakdowns.
Offer Assistance: Set up special service centers or dedicated staff to help residents navigate the complex permitting process.

4. Community Engagement & Communication

Transparent, empathetic, and consistent communication is key to managing resident expectations and fostering community cooperation during a difficult time.

Create a Central Hub: Use a designated webpage for all storm-related messaging and updates.
Maintain Consistent Messaging: Align all city and county communications with FEMA requirements to avoid confusion.
Use Multiple Channels: Share information widely through social media, videos, and direct outreach.
Hold One-on-One Meetings: Schedule time to meet with residents individually to explain their specific situations with empathy.
Conduct Informational Town Halls: Host town halls to provide information, using QR codes or other methods to manage questions efficiently.
Be Transparent: Openly communicate the processes, challenges, and reasons behind FEMA's necessary compliance requirements.

5. Addressing Specific Issues & Key Takeaways

Learning from past events and understanding specific regulations are crucial for building a more resilient community and avoiding common pitfalls.

The 50% Rule

If the cost of repairs exceeds 50% of the structure's market value, the building must be elevated or otherwise brought into compliance with current flood regulations.

Key Lessons

FEMA's 1206 Program is Critical: A failure to secure this mission can severely hamper a community's ability to fund and conduct inspections.
Proactive Inspections are Preferred: FEMA prefers communities to proactively inspect all homes for damage rather than waiting for permit applications.
Resource Needs are Massive: Large-scale damage inspections require substantial resources, which must be planned for.
Expect Audits: Be prepared for extensive FEMA audits, sometimes years after the storm. Non-compliance can lead to probation or loss of NFIP eligibility.
A Holistic Approach is Best: Building a resilient community requires partnerships between local, state, and federal governments.