Frequently Asked Questions and Misunderstandings about FEMA Assistance in Kentucky

I cleaned my home right after the disaster. So, FEMA won't be able to cover my costs?

Potentially, you may be eligible for Clean and Sanitize Assistance from FEMA. Kentuckians in designated counties may receive up to $300 for cleaning expenses. You can take pictures of your home to document the damage before and after you clean up. You may include pictures and any receipts for supplies, materials or paid help with your application.

How do I clean up mold in my home?

You can clean mold with a mixture of bleach and water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises:

• Opening windows and doors before working with bleach.
• Wearing goggles, an N-95 mask and gloves to protect your eyes, nose, mouth and skin.
• Mixing 1 cup of household bleach with 1 gallon of water.

Detailed cleaning instructions are available on the EPA website at this link Homeowner's and Renter's Guide to Mold Cleanup after Disasters | US EPA,

What can I do to prevent mold?

To prevent more mold from growing, find the source of the moisture and make any repairs. If drywall is in good shape after a thorough cleaning, cover it with a mold and mildew resistant paint.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides detailed information to prevent mold.

The Commonwealth of Kentucky also provides information about how to mitigate mold at this link Mold - Cabinet for Health and Family Services (ky.gov).

Does FEMA clean my damaged property for me?

Although FEMA doesn't have the authority to clean up your property, there are resources available to help. You may call 2-1-1 for referral to local services. There may be agencies in your area that provide clean-up services. Your local newspapers, radio and television stations are also good sources for finding help.

There are trees down in my yard and all over my neighborhood. Who helps with this?

It is best to contact your local Emergency Management officials when a tree has fallen or appears to be a significant threat. Local officials will be able to give you guidance.

The severe weather damaged the roof on my manufactured home. Can I live in my home during roof repairs?

This situation depends on the scope of the damages to your home. If your home is found to be safe by the FEMA inspector, then it is up to you whether to reside in the home during repairs.

I live in a historic, three-story property (businesses on the ground level with apartments above). The building's flat roof is leaking all the way through to the ground level. Is there any help available for me?

If you live in a disaster declared county, you can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. You may be eligible for personal property assistance as a renter.

Your building owner should check with local officials and the local historical society to find out if they provide any assistance. Your building owner may want to consider applying for FEMA assistance and also applying for a low interest loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration. If the county was declared for Public Assistance, then your community can apply to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

Can FEMA help me to rebuild my house safer and stronger?

FEMA can provide repair money for portions of your home that were already damaged but made worse by the disaster, as long as those areas need to be repaired for the home to be safe to live in. Assistance is also awarded for repairs that help your home avoid damage from future disasters.

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