Formal Appeal Letter to FEMA for Increased Assistance

Requesting Reevaluation of FEMA Award for Hurricane Milton Water and Mold Damage

Key Takeaways

• Comprehensive Documentation: Providing detailed contractor estimates and photographic evidence strengthens the appeal.
• Clear Comparison: Highlighting discrepancies between FEMA's awarded amount and restoration estimates underscores the need for reassessment.
• Formal Request: A structured and respectful appeal increases the likelihood of a favorable response from FEMA.

---

Introduction

January 21, 2025

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
National Processing Service Center
P.O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055

Subject: Appeal for Increased Assistance for Hurricane Milton Water and Mold Damage

Dear FEMA Representative,

I am writing to formally appeal the assistance awarded to me for the water and mold damage sustained by my home due to Hurricane Milton. While I am grateful for FEMA's support during this challenging time, the awarded amount of $[FEMA Awarded Amount] does not sufficiently cover the actual costs required to restore my property to a safe and habitable condition.

---

Damage Overview

My property, located at [Your Property Address], experienced severe water intrusion and subsequent mold growth as a direct result of Hurricane Milton. The damage includes, but is not limited to:

• Water infiltration into the basement and first-floor living areas.
• Mold growth affecting walls, flooring, insulation, and HVAC systems.
• Structural damage to beams and supports compromising the building's integrity.
• Electrical system damage posing potential fire hazards.
• Damage to personal property and essential household items.

Immediate actions were taken to mitigate further damage, including temporary fixes and mold remediation efforts. However, comprehensive restoration is necessary to fully recover from the disaster's impact.

---

Contractor Estimates

To accurately assess the restoration needs, I obtained detailed estimates from two licensed and reputable restoration contractors:

Contractor	Estimate Amount	Scope of Work
Contractor A	$[Amount A]	Comprehensive water extraction from affected areas. Mold remediation and preventive treatments. Drywall removal and replacement. Flooring restoration and replacement. HVAC system cleaning and repairs. Electrical system assessments and necessary repairs.
Contractor B	$[Amount B]	Advanced water damage restoration services. Mold removal and prevention strategies. Structural repairs to compromised beams. Replacement of insulation and affected materials. Electrical wiring repairs and safety checks. Final cleaning and dehumidification processes.

Both estimates reflect the extensive work required to restore my home to its pre-disaster condition, adhering to industry standards and safety regulations.

---

Discrepancy Analysis

The awarded amount of $[FEMA Awarded Amount] is significantly lower than the estimates provided by both contractors:

• Contractor A Estimate: $[Amount A]
• Contractor B Estimate: $[Amount B]

This discrepancy highlights the gap between the assistance provided and the actual costs necessary for proper restoration. Without adequate funding, the restoration efforts will be incomplete, potentially leading to long-term structural issues and health hazards due to persistent mold.

Item	FEMA Awarded Amount	Contractor A Estimate	Contractor B Estimate
Water Extraction	$[FEMA Amount]	$[Amount A]	$[Amount B]
Mold Remediation	$[FEMA Amount]	$[Amount A]	$[Amount B]
Drywall Replacement	$[FEMA Amount]	$[Amount A]	$[Amount B]
Flooring Restoration	$[FEMA Amount]	$[Amount A]	$[Amount B]
HVAC System Repairs	$[FEMA Amount]	$[Amount A]	$[Amount B]
Electrical Repairs	$[FEMA Amount]	$[Amount A]	$[Amount B]
Structural Repairs	$[FEMA Amount]	$[Amount A]	$[Amount B]

The table above illustrates the specific areas where the awarded amount falls short, emphasizing the necessity for an increased grant to ensure all damages are adequately addressed.

---

Supporting Documentation

To support my appeal, I have included the following documents:

1. FEMA Determination Letter: The initial award letter outlining the granted amount.
2. Contractor Estimates: Detailed estimates from both Contractor A and Contractor B, clearly itemizing all necessary repairs and associated costs.
3. Photographic Evidence: High-resolution photos taken immediately after Hurricane Milton, showcasing the extent of water and mold damage.
4. Proof of Ownership: Copy of the property deed verifying my ownership of the damaged property.
5. Invoices and Receipts: Documentation of temporary repairs and mold mitigation efforts already undertaken to prevent further deterioration.
6. Additional Documentation: Any other relevant records supporting the severity of the damage and the necessity for comprehensive restoration.

These documents provide a clear and factual basis for the request to reevaluate the awarded assistance, ensuring transparency and accountability in the restoration process.

---

Request for Re-evaluation

Given the substantial difference between the awarded amount and the contractors' estimates, I respectfully request that FEMA re-evaluate my case to adjust the assistance amount accordingly. This adjustment is crucial to:

• Cover the full scope of necessary repairs to restore my home.
• Ensure the health and safety of my family by addressing mold-related hazards.
• Prevent further structural damage that could escalate repair costs in the future.
• Allow for a timely and efficient restoration process, minimizing prolonged displacement and inconvenience.

I understand the complexities involved in disaster assistance allocation, and I am committed to providing any additional information or documentation required to facilitate this appeal. My goal is to work collaboratively with FEMA to achieve a resolution that aligns with the agency's mission of supporting disaster-affected individuals and restoring their livelihoods.

---

Conclusion

In conclusion, the support provided by FEMA is invaluable during times of crisis, and I deeply appreciate the assistance already granted. However, the severity of the damage sustained from Hurricane Milton necessitates a reassessment of the awarded amount to ensure comprehensive restoration of my home.

I trust that FEMA will consider this appeal with the utmost attention to detail and fairness, recognizing the genuine need for increased assistance to fully recover from this devastating event. I look forward to a favorable response and am hopeful for a swift and just resolution.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
FEMA Application Number: [Your FEMA Application Number]

---

References

---