The aftermath of a hurricane can be overwhelming, but acting quickly and carefully is essential to protect your home and ensure safety. At Oceans Luxury Realty, we understand the challenges faced by homeowners in Volusia County, and we're here to provide you with guidance during this critical time. With extensive experience in both real estate and hurricane recovery, our team is ready to support you every step of the way as you restore your home.

Prioritize Safety

Before entering your home, ensure it is safe. Turn off the electricity and gas to avoid potential hazards. Wear protective gear, including gloves, boots, and masks, especially when dealing with contaminated water.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of all areas and items affected by the hurricane before moving or cleaning anything. This documentation will be crucial for filing insurance claims.

Remove Standing Water

Use pumps, wet vacuums, and mops to remove standing water as quickly as possible. Open doors and windows to promote air circulation, and begin drying out the space immediately to prevent further damage.

Dry Out the Home

Begin the drying process within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and heaters to thoroughly dry the affected areas. Keep an eye on humidity levels, as moisture can cause mold even after surfaces appear dry.

Dispose of Contaminated Items

Carpets, furniture, mattresses, and drywall that have absorbed floodwater should be removed and discarded if they cannot be cleaned or sanitized. For drywall, cut at least 12-18 inches above the waterline to remove damp material and prevent mold. If there was significant standing water, you may need to remove 2-3 feet above the waterline.

Clean and Disinfect

Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (walls, floors, counters) with soap and water, followed by a disinfectant to prevent bacterial growth. Ensure areas that were submerged are properly cleaned and sanitized.

Prevent Mold

Monitor humidity levels closely and continue using dehumidifiers to stop mold from spreading. If mold is already visible, it’s best to hire professionals for safe removal.

Inspect for Structural Damage

Examine your home’s foundation, walls, and floors for signs of cracks, warping, or instability. If you find any issues, consult a contractor or structural engineer before making repairs.

Begin Repairs and Restoration

Once your home is dry and disinfected, begin restoring it by replacing damaged drywall, flooring, and insulation. If any wiring or plumbing has been affected, have a professional inspect and repair it.

At Oceans Luxury Realty, we can recommend trusted local vendors who specialize in hurricane damage repairs to ensure quality restoration.

File Insurance Claims

Keep detailed records of all expenses and repairs, and contact your insurance company to file a claim. An inventory, including brands, serial numbers, and prices of lost items, will help ensure a fair claim.

Apply for FEMA and SBA Assistance

In addition to your insurance claim, reach out to FEMA for further assistance. Visit www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA. You can also apply for an SBA Disaster Loan, which may be a prerequisite for certain FEMA benefits.

Seek Help from the Red Cross

The Red Cross provides emergency shelter, food, and support services for those affected by floods. Call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.redcross.org to access local assistance.

Apply for Emergency Food Assistance

You can apply for emergency SNAP food assistance through ACCESS Florida by visiting access.florida.gov or calling 1-866-762-2237. Be prepared to provide identification and proof of residence.

Local Volusia County Resources

Here are some local organizations offering emergency aid:

  • United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties: Financial aid for housing and utilities – call 2-1-1 or (386) 253-0563.
  • Volusia County Community Assistance Division: Rent and utility aid – (386) 736-5956.
  • Second Harvest Food Bank: Food distribution to local pantries – (407) 295-1066.
  • Edgewater Alliance Church: Food assistance and community meals – (386) 423-3611.
  • The Salvation Army Volusia County: Food and financial assistance – (386) 255-1419.
  • Volusia County Health Department: Various assistance programs – (386) 274-0500.

Hurricane Assistance Programs

Several programs can help during this difficult time:

  • Florida Disaster Fund: Provides recovery support – (850) 488-7146.
  • My Safe Florida Home Program: Grants for hurricane resistance improvements – (786) 921-0772.
  • Rebuild Florida: Offers rehabilitation funding for hurricane-damaged properties – (833) 983-1322.
  • Transform 386: A post-disaster revitalization initiative – (386) 257-6010.

When seeking assistance, have your identification, proof of residence, and any eviction or utility disconnection notices on hand to expedite the process.

At Oceans Luxury Realty, we’re here to assist you through every stage of recovery. Whether you need advice on the next steps, recommendations for reliable contractors, or guidance on insurance claims, our team is ready to help. Together, we can restore your home and community, moving forward stronger than ever.

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