Residents applying for FEMA aid will be contacted by inspection contractors to set up an inspection date and time. If applicants cannot return home for inspections, they can still have their home inspected.

If unable to meet an inspector at their homes, applicants can identify an "Authorized Agent" to be present during the inspection, such as a trusted neighbor or relative. The FEMA inspector will fax an "applicant authorized agent release form" to be signed and returned by fax before the inspection can occur. If the applicant does not have someone in the area that can be the authorized agent, the inspector can offer an authorized agent who is a FEMA employee that represents the interests of the applicant. The inspector will fax the release form to the applicant to be signed and returned to the inspector by fax.

All applicants must provide proof that they occupy the residence, whether they rent or own the home. Occupancy can be verified, for example, with a copy of a Louisiana driver's license, other photo identification with address, a utility bill, or a credit card statement showing the physical address of the residence. Homeowners who apply for aid will be required to verify ownership; the homeowner can provide a property tax receipt, mortgage payment stub, or the cover sheet of the homeowner's insurance policy. If the applicant cannot be present at the inspection, this information should be provided by fax to the FEMA-contracted inspector before the inspection is scheduled.

If the dwelling is not locked, the inspector can enter to perform a complete inspection. If unable to enter because the home is locked or unsafe to enter, the inspector will do an "exterior inspection;" personal property will be visually verified through windows where possible. In many cases, this type of inspection provides adequate verification of damaged property. (10/4)