If you have recently been impacted by a natural disaster, you may be feeling overwhelmed. We are here to help you navigate this difficult time, and we will do everything in our power to get you back on track. Below are a few tips on what to do after a natural disaster strikes.
Reach out to Loved Ones, Family, and Friends
When a disaster strikes, the safety of your loved ones is paramount. Call neighbors, family, and friends to check up on them and let them know you’re okay. If you need help reconnecting with family, you can register with the American Red Cross for assistance contacting loved ones.
Be Careful Returning to Your Home and Find Temporary Lodging if Necessary
It may not be safe to return to your home immediately after a disaster. You should not attempt to travel through floodwaters or pass through blocked roads. No matter the type of disaster, it’s critical that you follow guidance from your local authorities.
If you can’t return to your home immediately, your homeowners insurance policy may partially subsidize temporary lodging. Check your insurance policy for details. If temporary lodging isn’t covered by your insurance, you may be eligible for FEMA’s temporary housing assistance. (See details at disasterassistance.gov.) The Red Cross also offers an online directory of disaster shelters where you may be able to stay.
What to do if Your Home is Damaged
If your house is damaged, please notify your insurance provider and Gregory Funding as soon as possible so that we can take the necessary actions to address the damage. You can begin this process by following these steps:
Contact Gregory Funding at 866.712.5698. The sooner you contact us about your situation, the sooner we can help you arrange home repairs.
File a claim with your homeowners insurance provider. Include any photos and videos of the damage to your property for reference. Your insurance provider will work with you to estimate the cost of the necessary repairs and send you a check to pay for the repairs.
Once you've received the check from your carrier, fill out our Insurance Claims Packet. The packet contains instructions on how to handle the check and what other documents you’ll need to provide us.
Keep track of all expenses and save receipts. Insurance companies may ask for them later.
Important Fraud Warning - Be sure to do your research when selecting a contractor to repair your home. Confirm that the contractor is licensed and bonded as required by local law. Unfortunately, we see rampant fraud when in the wake of disasters.
What to do if You’re Having Trouble Making Your Monthly Payment
Disasters can be disruptive to all facets of your life, including your personal finances. If you’ve been financially impacted, contact us using either option below so we can help you get back on your feet. Mortgage assistance options are available to help you get through this difficult time and you may call us toll-free at 866.712.5698 to speak with a representative about your unique situation.
Additional Resources
In addition to contacting our team, several disaster assistance resources are available, including:
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at www.disasterassistance.gov
American Red Cross at 800.733.2767, Option 4.
For a list of HUD-approved housing counseling agencies that can provide free foreclosure prevention counseling, debt management information, disaster assistance, and translation or other language assistance, contact the following federal government agency:
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at 800.569.4287 or www.hud.gov/counseling
We’re here to help. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly.