How to claim tornado relief in Iowa if your house or property has been damaged
So your home or property got hit by a tornado, what's next?
David Wilson, director of Johnson County Emergency Management, recommends Iowans look at all available options for "layering assistance." Someone may not qualify for all programs, but contacting them ensures the best coverage possible.
Here's a guide on who to call for aid:
Get connected through 211
211 is a free 24/7 hotline that provides information to people seeking community resources. If immediate assistance is needed, one can:
Text their ZIP code to 898211
Visit 211iowa.org
Download the 211 Iowa app
Find shelter through the Red Cross
Reach out to the Red Cross Hotline, 1-800-RED-CROSS, if you're in need of housing.
More: 'Rope-like' Iowa tornado causes damage to rural homes; large hail hits cars, houses
Contact your insurance company
According to consumerfinance.gov, it's important to contact your insurance company because your policy may require you to file a claim within a specific period of time after the natural disaster or incident.
If you have multiple policies, contact the ones that cover the damaged property.
Request for a copy of your policy if you don't have one on hand to verify what damage is covered.
Take photos and/or videos of the damage. It will help with the insurance claim. Make sure to do this before and after you perform repairs yourself.
Once the claim is received, an adjuster may come to look at the damage and assist in the claims damage. Some states have deadlines for insurance companies to act on a claim. Contact the Iowa state insurance commissioner or department of insurance of Iowa for that.
Contact your mortgage loan server if you own your home
The consumerfinance.gov website said there may be options to help change the mortgage payments while you don't have a steady income or have financial difficulties. Options offered differ based on the mortgage lender. It's recommended to call your servicer and ask what relief they offer for disaster victims.
More: The tornado count in Friday's severe storms is now at 16. A look at each one:
Contact Iowa Homeland Security
Residents in counties impacted by severe weather are encouraged to report the damages to Iowa Homeland Security. This includes damage to property, roads and utilities. The information submitted will be shared with local emergency management agencies.
Report damages here: https://homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Find legal assistance
If legal assistance is needed with rental agreements and other things, contact Iowa Legal Aid.
Apply online: https://www.iowalegalaid.org/
Call: 800-532-1275
Help with tarps or roof patches
Some Habitat for Humanity organizations may provide patches and tarps. In eastern Iowa, contact Edith Jones at 319-519-6056 or email edith@iowavalleyhabitat.org.
You can also try reaching out to your local fire department.
More: What is a tornado watch? Tornado warning? Here's a look at the differences
Apply for state assistance programs
If the governor issues a disaster proclamation in your county, Iowans can apply for programs that provide financial assistance.
The Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program gives up to $5,000 to households with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level. Grants can be used for home or car repairs, clothing or food replacement and temporary housing. Applicants have 45 days to submit a claim on the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services website.
The Disaster Case Management Program has no income eligibility requirement. Applications with Iowa Community Action close after 180 days.
More: Tornadoes wreak extensive damage in eastern Iowa; at least 40 structures damaged in Johnson County
Noelle Alviz-Gransee is a breaking news reporter at the Des Moines Register. Follow her on Twitter @NoelleHannika or email her at NAlvizGransee@registermedia.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: What to do if an Iowa tornado damages your home, from insurance to aid
