Answers to Questions About the NFIP

Presidential Disaster Declarations and the NFIP

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  1. When a major flooding event occurs resulting in a Presidential disaster declaration, how does this affect the NFIP?
  2. What are examples of mitigation opportunities that may become available following a Presidential disaster declaration?
  3. Are there any specific programs available associated with a Presidential disaster declaration to assist with mitigation?

 

  1. When a major flooding event occurs resulting in a Presidential disaster declaration, how does this affect the NFIP?
    Although a Presidential disaster declaration is not required for an NFIP policyholder to file a claim, it may provide additional options to the policyholder to mitigate or prevent future damages. The policyholder may gain valuable information from his or her local officials about mitigation opportunities which may become available as a result of the Presidential disaster declaration.

  2. What are examples of mitigation opportunities that may become available following a Presidential disaster declaration?
    When major flooding disasters have affected a region, it is common for communities and individuals to consider relocation, acquisition or elevation of flood-damaged structures. Property owners who sustained extensive damages are often very interested in avoiding the recurrence of such an experience. The feasibility of such mitigation projects must be established on a case-by-case basis. It is important for a flood insurance policyholder to be aware of these possibilities and contact local officials to learn as much as possible.

  3. Are there any specific programs available associated with a Presidential disaster declaration to assist with mitigation?
    Yes, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, authorized under Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act is FEMA's primary hazard mitigation program designed to assist States and communities in implementing long-term hazard mitigation measures following a major disaster declaration. States manage this program and may set State-specific project criteria. Individuals with questions should contact their local officials for more information. Through the Small Business Administration, loans may be available to qualifying applicants to assist with the costs of mitigation. Due to the need to coordinate many activities following Presidential declarations, it is important for individual citizens to raise their questions and concerns about these post-disaster mitigation opportunities with their local community officials.

F-084 (5/06)

Last Modified: Thursday, 08-Jun-2006 11:28:03 EDT