Hillsborough County, Fla. (970 WFLA)- Beginning today, FEMA outreach teams will canvass Hillsborough County neighborhoods to help residents impacted by Hurricane Irma register for disaster assistance.
The teams can quickly identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and provide application updates and referrals to additional community resources.
Housing inspectors contracted by FEMA will inspect damage sustained by those who have registered with FEMA.
Residents should exercise caution when contracting for home repairs. You can report fraudulent or suspicious contractors by calling the Hillsborough County disaster fraud hotline at (813) 635-8316. Hotline hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Here are some tips to guard against fraud:
* Ask to see ID badges. All FEMA representatives wear a federal photo ID badge.
A FEMA shirt or jacket is not proof of identity. If you doubt someone's credentials, contact local law enforcement.
* Beware of people going door-to-door. People knocking on doors at damaged homes or phoning homeowners claiming to be building contractors could be con artists, especially if they ask for personal information or solicit money.Verify federal ID badges of disaster assistance staff.
* FEMA Disaster survivor assistance teams never ask for or accept payment for their services.
* FEMA does not have "approved" contractors. Beware of contractors who say they are affiliated with FEMA. Don't sign anything you don't understand or contracts with blank spaces.
Click here for additional information about disaster assistance
Graphic Credit: Hillsborough County