The deadline to register for FEMA assistance is October 13. Flood survivors must apply by this date to be eligible for any federal assistance.
All flood-affected residents are strongly encouraged not to wait to register with FEMA while working towards cleanup and rebuilding. Damage must be reported to FEMA before the federal emergency declaration expires on October 13 in order to be eligible for any federal assistance.
All affected individuals, regardless if they are covered by flood insurance, should register damage by October 13 by one of the following methods:
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1-800-621-3362
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TTY: 1-800-462-7585
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In-person at the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), 301 W. University Ave., Lafayette
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Representatives at the Registering with FEMA, even for those covered by insurance, can trigger other assistance such as low-interest loans to cover repairs or replacement expenses that exceed personal insurance policies. Low-interest disaster loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA) are available for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes (including landlords) and private nonprofit organizations.
DRC will offer assistance and information on FEMA programs including Individual Assistance, Transitional Shelter Assistance, Rental Assistance and low-interest loans. The DRC offers support for those who have not yet applied or who have questions about their application status. The DRC is open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Survivors may seek assistance at any disaster recovery center, including centers in other states. Visit www.fema.gov/disaster-recovery-centers to locate other DRCs.
Additionally, residents, businesses, and property owners are reminded to purchase the proper permits for flood damage repair and reconstruction. The standard local fee required for permitting and inspection of repairs and construction necessitated by flood-related damage was waived by Lafayette Parish Mayor-President Joel Robideaux via executive order. Robideaux suspended permit fees for construction and repairs during the state of emergency and will continue the policy for flood survivors until further notice.
Before any repair work begins, such as replacement of sheetrock, the Codes Division must be contacted at 337-291-8461 for permitting and inspection as necessary. In most cases a minimal residential repair permit is all that is required and can be obtained at the Clifton Chenier Center at 220 W. Willow St., Bld. B. Substantially damaged homes will be subject to additional requirements and permitting.
