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Memo 1129 FEMA Inspections Hurricane Katrina
To: All Inspectors and Contractors
From: Vendor Management

As everyone is well aware, the devastation that Hurricane Katrina brought has resulted in an increase of inspections work volume in the affected areas. We have started processing several lists from clients and sending these inspections out into the field. It is important to note that these inspections differ in some ways from the exterior visual inspections that we perform in order to remain in compliance with investor/insurer guidelines.

Below is a summary of some of the new information that will be asked on these FEMA inspections. It is important to note that when in the field, you must utilize your pocket pc to ensure that all required questions are being addressed. The questions that are asked on INSPI2 have been altered for these inspections.

  • Every inspection must be completely photo documented regardless of occupancy status.
  • If a property is found to be unsecure, an interior inspection must be completed and INSPI2 will automatically ask interior questions on the property.
  • Comments will be required on any personals, debris or health hazards found at occupied properties.
  • Each property must have a classification of the damages as light, moderate or severe. In addition, every neighborhood's condition should be described as well using one of those 3 categories.
  • Some of the properties that we are sent to inspect many not exist any longer if they were in a severely affected area. If this is the case, please be sure to report on any vacant lot if there is evidence that a home previously existed. This evidence must be photo documented and reported.
  • If contact is made with the borrower, please refer to the questions on INSPI2 that are to be asked. Additionally, if you are unable to gain access to a particular area, it is important to note the exact reason as well as when access can be gained. Furthermore, if a property cannot be located, it must be fully explained why (i.e., missing street signs, all houses gone).

Several inspectors have offered to relocate crews to these areas to assist with this increased volume while still maintaining the inspections in their home area. We appreciate those efforts and ask that we receive daily communication to ensure that the work is being completed timely and accurately as our clients are in need of this information.

Please contact the regionals below with any questions as they have been assigned specifically to this project.

Nicole Everette Ext 1274
Molly Bublik Ext 1252

Thank you,
Vendor Management

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