Some participants in FEMA’s Direct Lease program have been notified they will need to move to a new unit. Households currently in a long-term unit will be moved to a short-term unit in order to return long-term housing to the Maui rental market. All households that remain eligible for the program, including those that are moving into a different unit, will continue to be housed by FEMA at the rental rate they have previously established. As part of the move-out process, survivors will receive calls and visits from FEMA staff.
Step 1
Prepare for your move ahead of time by:
Organizing your current unit as soon as possible and confirming a way to move your belongings.
Confirming the status of your background check. If you or a family member has turned 18 since moving into your FEMA temporary housing, a background check will need to be completed prior to relocation. FEMA will let you know if you are required to complete an update of your previous background check for another reason.
Step 2
Step 3
After you are notified that you are required to change units, you will have 14 days to initiate the move once you are aware of the new address.
Step 4
Once you initiate the move you will have a license-in appointment at the new unit. During the move-in, you will review the housing agreement with a FEMA representative, sign the necessary paperwork, and complete a walk-through of the unit. The walk-through will make sure the unit is safe, sanitary and functional. Photos are also taken of the unit’s condition and any damages or maintenance requirements will be documented. You are expected to maintain the unit in its current condition throughout your stay.
At this point, you will receive the keys, key card or access code to the new unit, along with a copy of the agreement and other lease documentation.
Step 5
Once you have access to the new unit, you will have 48 hours to completely move out of the old unit.
Step 6
As a part of the move-out process, FEMA representatives from the Individual Assistance team will assess the unit. During the half hour to hour-long assessment, FEMA staff will check the unit for damages.
It is suggested that you are present for the inspection, but it is not required. However, if damages are found at this time it would be helpful to be available to explain the situation.
If you are not able to be present for the move-out inspection, leave the completed paperwork that was previously provided to you when you moved into the unit.
After the inspection you will receive notification of any damages found that you may be responsible for, if they were not pre-existing at the time you moved in.
Q&A
Q. Can FEMA assist me with moving my personal items to the new location?
A. FEMA will not assist households with their moving process. Individuals and households are responsible for identifying their own way to move to their new temporary housing unit.
Q. Can I request a different unit than the one offered to me?
A. You will not have the opportunity to pick between multiple units. You will be offered a new unit that has been selected to suit the needs of your household.
Q. What should I do if I have health or safety concerns with my new unit?
A. Your move-in inspection is an ideal time to voice any concerns about the new unit. If you find that the new unit is not safe or sanitary then you should tell the FEMA representatives during your walk-through of the unit.
Direct Lease households with further questions may call your recertification advisor or the Individual Assistance Housing Hotline at 808-784-1600.