There is already an abundance of information flowing on the internet and elsewhere about the flooding and the potential for federal assistance to the victims of the Middle Tennessee flood. However, finding specific information about what types of assistance may be available, whether or not certain damage will be covered by homeowners' insurance, and many other questions is a bit harder to find. As a result, the following information is intended for those Tennesseans who have been affected by the flooding in Middle Tennessee, particularly those in Nashville, Williamson County, Rutherford County, and Maury County.
First, the Daily News Journal out of Rutherford County has an article posted regarding the issue of whether normal homeowners' insurance will cover the flood damage. In general, the typical homeowners' insurance policy does NOT cover flood damage. However, there are some cases in which coverage might be available. As happened following Hurricane Katrina, there is likely to be a LOT of denied homeowners' insurance claims. Most of the damage claims will be correctly denied because flood insurance is what covers flood damage, and most Middle Tennesseans do not have flood insurance. I have already heard a rumor that only 400 Davidson County properties had flood insurance, so I would assume the vast majority of you do not have it. But rising water was not the only source of damage to many properties. The rain itself (particularly if flooding in a house was caused specifically by roof damage) would likely be covered. In some cases, flooding as a result of burst pipes might be covered. Accordingly, do not give up hope right away. Your claim may be denied, but you need to appeal the decision and see if there are other causes (ie., other than just rising water, which generally isn't covered).
There also may be federal assistance through FEMA for counties approved for assistance. Originally, only Cheatham, Davidson, Hickman, and Williamson Counties were approved, but additional counties have already been added and more could be added. The Nashville City Paper has an article on the prospects for FEMA assistance. The types of assistance available will vary, but may be limited to (1) temporary housing assistance, (2) grants for small amounts to pay for personal items and SOME housing restoration, and (3) low-cost loans. The types and amounts of federal assistance vary from one disaster to another, so it is unclear at this point what will be available. To apply for assistance, you will need to contact either FEMA (www.fema.gov or 1-800-621-FEMA) or the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency ("TEMA"). Your county may also be a place to start the process.
The first thing to do is don't panic. There are a number of sources for assistance. If you need help, contact FEMA or even your Congressman's local office. There are also a number of meetings planned that will provide additional information and allow people to apply for assistance. The main thing right now is to look for help and try to get as much cleanup done as possible. If this firm can be of help, please contact us.
