Residents and short-term rental owners are expressing frustration over bureaucratic delays preventing them from starting the rebuilding process after Hurricane Helene.  

Matthew Barrowclough, who owns five properties primarily in Indian Rocks Beach, reported severe flood damage to all his units. For 50 days, he has been unable to generate income as he awaits FEMA’s Substantial Damage determination, also known as a Significant Damage letter.  

READ: FEMA Stop Work Orders Slow Hurricane Repairs, Frustrating Florida Homeowners Victimized by Recent Storms

Without this letter, Barrowclough and others cannot apply for permits or begin reconstruction. Despite debris removal being completed and contractors ready, the delay has left him increasingly frustrated.  

“Every day, I’m fighting just to keep going,” Barrowclough told Bay News 9 Tampa. He noted that each day without the letter extends his financial hardship, as he continues to pay property taxes, insurance, and utility bills on his damaged properties.  

“Everyone is waiting for clarity and consistency, but instead, we’re getting confusion and evolving stories,” he said.  

READ: Can I Get a Permit Without a Substantial Damage Determination Letter if the Property’s Hurricane Repair Costs Don’t Exceed 50% of the Pre-Damage Value?

Andi Bennett, who manages about 20 rental units in the beachside area, including a small hotel, shared similar concerns. Her family’s income has been halted since the storm, and despite completing initial cleanup and demolition work, they too are stuck waiting for the letter.  

“It’s extremely frustrating. We were told over two weeks ago that these letters would be sent, and we’re still waiting,” Bennett said. “This is our livelihood.”  

She had hoped to complete repairs before the holiday season, which leads into their busiest time of the year. However, even when the letters arrive, she anticipates challenges, including disputes over property valuations between FEMA and the city due to the 50% rule.  

READ: Does a Substantial Damage Determination Letter Automatically Qualify Me for a Permit to Make Hurricane-Related Repairs?

The city of Indian Rocks Beach posted a Resident’s Guide to Rebuilding in early November, explaining that the FEMA letter will indicate whether a property is deemed substantially damaged. If not, owners can apply for building permits to begin repairs. This determination is based on assessments by Pinellas County.  

At last week’s City Commission meeting, City Manager Brently Gregg Mims acknowledged that Indian Rocks Beach is not the only community dealing with these delays. Mayor Denise Houseberg added that 95% of the substantial damage inspections were reportedly complete and that the first batch of letters is expected to be released by the end of the week.

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(Image credit: AP Photo/Mike Carlson)