North Charleston officials and inspectors have begun damage assessments, but citizen participation is still needed. With over 42,000 housing units in North Charleston, it is very difficult for inspectors to be aware of all damage from Hurricane Matthew.
City officials are asking residents to report storm, wind, or flood damage, as well as water intrusion of any degree. Citizens can report by completing an online form (http://bit.ly/matthewdamage) or by calling 843-740-2533, 843-740-2562, or 843-740-2569. If citizens receive a voicemail, detailed information can be left to include name, address, a form of contact, and description of damage.
We ask that these contacts only be used to report flood damage, not for general information.
After being notified, city inspectors will document damage with a home visit and will perform a life safety inspection to ensure no hazards exists within the flood damaged structure. For property with damage already observed from initial drive-through assessments, inspectors will approach the home and ask the resident to enter for a proper assessment.
Documentation of all flood damage within the City is in accordance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Assessments must be documented for disaster declarations, which may lead to federal assistance.
Even if damaged homes are insured by general homeowner insurance or flood insurance, the properties need to be assessed.
Due to damage assessments, all normal building and fire inspections for general permits have been postponed until further notice.