LBK condo federation informs residents about post-storm recovery

When handling post-hurricane recovery and restoration, it’s important to do things the right way the first time. 

That was the main theme of the virtual seminar presented by the Federation of Longboat Key Condominiums on Saturday, Oct. 19. The webinar included speakers like restoration companies, insurance adjusters, and the Director of Planning, Zoning and Building Allen Parsons. 

Throughout the nearly 2-hour presentation, speakers touched on important topics relating to storm preparation and recovery and answered questions from some participants. 

Here are a few of the important points from the webinar: 

Document everything before and after

When dealing with documentation before and after major storms, more is better. 

Nick Alzate with SRQ Public Adjusters said his usual pre-loss photo folders have 400-700 photos for a property to adequately document everything. These photos are important for insurance and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) claims after storms to prove damage occurred during storms. 

After storms, Alzate said the same number of photos is important to show exactly how the storms caused damage. Separate claims need to be filed for separate events, so having those photos after each event that specifically shows damage caused by the events is important.

Proper cleanup

After a storm passes, Alzate said it’s important to “stop the bleeding” and mitigate potential continued losses. 

Gary Septer from Rainbow Restoration said that water intrusion from storm surges is treated as contaminated water, and any porous materials — like drywall and insulation — must be removed quickly to prevent mold. 

Roofing contractor Michael DeMichele with Strong Roofing told the audience that putting tarps on a damaged roof is an important step after a roof takes considerable storm damage. Tarps can prevent further rain damage after a storm and can reduce liability for the homeowner. 

Emergency repair work can be done without a permit, but a permit application for emergency work must be submitted within 24 hours of starting the work, according to Parsons.

Alzate cautioned people that FEMA has specific guidelines on reimbursement for how a “dry-out” and roof tarping should be performed.

For example, Alzate said FEMA will only cover up to a certain number of days for the dry-out restoration process and dehumidifier rental depending on the degree of flooding. Some properties, depending on the severity of damage, may need more work that is outside of the scope that FEMA reimburses. 

In any case, it’s important to carefully review FEMA’s guidelines and speak with licensed contractors about these processes. 

Get permits when necessary

Parsons provided details about the necessary permitting process for structural repairs within the town.

He said there is a limited amount of work that can be done without a permit, which includes emergency repairs like temporary roof repairs to prevent continued damage, covering exterior walls with plywood or plastic and temporary stabilization to prevent structural collapse. 

Other than that, most post-storm repairs will require a permit through the Planning, Zoning and Building Department. This can be done through an online portal on the department’s website. Alternatively, permit applicants can email [email protected] or visit the department at 501 Bay Isles Road. 

Additionally, the town commission approved a temporary fee waiver for building permit applications during hurricane recovery. Town Manager Howard Tipton also approved a 30-day exemption for repair work to be allowed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. 

Utilize trusted, local contractors

The presenters all emphasized that having good relations with local and trusted contractors will come in handy during storm recovery. 

Parsons also said in his presentation that hiring an unlicensed contractor can be a huge risk for homeowners. 

During times of emergency recovery, Parsons said scammers can try to take advantage of homeowners, so it’s important to recognize warning signs and ensure the contractor you are using is trusted and properly licensed. 

Parsons said using unlicensed contractors could lead to poor quality work, loss of coverage under homeowner’s policy, noncompliance with town building codes and liens imposed on properties.