AUSTIN - The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) today reminded Texans impacted by recent severe weather and flooding to report property damage by submitting an online damage assessment survey.
“As the damage assessment process continues, Texans are encouraged to self-report property damage using TDEM’s online reporting tool when it is safe to do so,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “The critical details provided in the damage surveys allow officials to gain an understanding of the extent of damage caused by storms and flooding and help determine whether Texas qualifies for federal disaster aid.”
Texans can report storm damage to homes and businesses using the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) damage survey. iSTAT surveys can be filled out in English and Spanish by visiting damage.tdem.texas.gov and clicking “Spring Severe Weather and Flooding Event.”
In addition to helping officials determine eligibility for various forms of disaster assistance, the information provided in the self-reported damage assessment surveys also aids officials in connecting impacted Texans with available resources to assist with the disaster recovery process.
Reporting damage through the iSTAT tool is a voluntary activity and is not a substitute for reporting damage to your insurance company. It does not guarantee disaster relief assistance. English and Spanish tutorial videos explaining how to fill out iSTAT surveys are available at damage.tdem.texas.gov.
This week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are participating in Individual Assistance preliminary damage assessments alongside state and local partners. These preliminary damage assessments are being conducted virtually, rather than the historical method of walking door-to-door to assess personal property damage.
These joint preliminary damage assessments are being conducted utilizing innovative technologies including aerial flyovers to capture imagery, analysis of GPS data, search and rescue observations, flood modeling data, and details provided by Texans through iSTAT. This more efficient approach will help ensure swift review of the information compiled and expedites the process to determine eligibility for disaster assistance.
As individuals are allowed to return to flooded homes, following directions and guidance of local officials, Texans are urged to heed the safety warnings offered by the Texas Department of State Health Services to ensure a safe cleanup and recovery process. Access flood gage data and review flood safety information at TexasFlood.org, check road conditions at DriveTexas.org, and locate disaster preparedness information at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
Additionally, the Texas Department of Insurance has tips for Texans on filing storm-related claims for homes and automobiles with insurance coverage. Texans can access information on purchasing or renewing flood insurance policies through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) at floodsmart.gov. A flood insurance policy typically takes up to 30 days to take effect, so it is important to plan ahead before hurricane season or the next disaster strikes.
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