Federal agency dispels rumor
CHICO, Calif. (AP) — Federal officials say survivors of a deadly Northern California wildfire will not lose disaster assistance if they are unable to get their homes inspected in the next month.
Kevin Hannes, of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said Saturday that he wanted to dispel a rumor that Butte County residents would lose benefits if their homes don’t receive a FEMA inspection within 30 days.
Hannes spoke alongside Sheriff Kory Honea at a news conference at a disaster recovery center in Chico.
Hannes says many residents also mistakenly believed they needed a verification letter from a government official if their property is still inaccessible.
Some may have gotten a denial letter because more information about their insurance is needed.
Residents should call 1-800-621-3362 to request a FEMA inspector, not the sheriff’s office.
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