Old North News

Hurricane Helene made landfall along Florida's Big Bend Panhandle as a major hurricane, moving northward and causing power outages and flooding in Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee. In response to the storm's impact, Governor Roy Cooper requested a major disaster declaration from the federal government for 39 counties in North Carolina and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This request was aimed at securing federal public assistance and individual assistance for those affected by the hurricane.

The declaration initiated the process of providing critical financial aid to communities severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. On Wednesday, President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for a Federal Emergency Declaration. This approval allows for federal financial reimbursement for emergency response actions undertaken by government entities and some non-profit organizations.

In addition to these measures, individuals whose employment has been disrupted due to Hurricane Helene may qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). This program offers temporary benefits to those not eligible for regular unemployment insurance. The U.S. Department of Labor provides more information on this assistance.

For businesses affected by the storm, there are several steps to consider once it is safe to do so. Contacting insurance companies is essential to understand coverage types, claim processing times, and whether repair estimates are necessary. Temporary repairs should be made to prevent further damage but extensive permanent repairs should wait until after an adjuster assesses the damages.

Business owners should prepare detailed inventories of damaged items with descriptions, purchase dates, and replacement costs to expedite claims processing. It is also advisable not to discard damaged items before they have been evaluated by an adjuster. Documenting structural damage with photographs or videos can be helpful in substantiating claims.

Licensed contractors' written bids detailing materials and costs can facilitate quicker claim adjustments. Maintaining copies of all submitted documents as well as any received paperwork is crucial throughout this process.

Finally, after settling claims and initiating repair work, business owners are encouraged to reassess their insurance coverage needs with their agents.

The North Carolina Community College System’s Small Business Center Network has shared additional resources for small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.