FEMA was actively looking for property management companies with ready-to-occupy residential or rental properties to help house Floridians affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton as late as this past weekend. These properties would support FEMA’s temporary housing efforts in communities impacted by the disasters.

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However, the deadline for applying expired November 29. Although, the agency has not yet acquired enough housing for displaced hurricane victims.

Eligibility Requirements for Properties

To qualify for FEMA’s Direct Lease Program, properties must meet specific criteria:

• Existing Residential Properties: Units must not be part of the typical rental market (e.g., corporate apartments, vacation rentals, or second homes) and must serve as temporary housing.
• Exclusions: Units available for FEMA-awarded Rental Assistance or transient accommodations, such as hotels and motels, are not eligible.
• Compliance with Standards: Properties must meet the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Housing Quality Standards and state regulations, with all utilities, appliances, and furnishings in working order.
• Complete Living Facilities: Each unit must include cooking, eating, and sanitation amenities.
• Proximity to Services: Properties must be reasonably close to public transportation, schools, emergency services, grocery stores, and other community resources.

Registration Requirement

Property management companies were encouraged to register with FEMA through the System for Award Management (SAM) at SAM.gov to be considered.

Key Lease Terms

FEMA required specific conditions in lease agreements, including:

1. Exclusive Use by FEMA: FEMA has sole discretion over unit selection and occupancy during the lease term.
2. Flexible Lease Termination: FEMA may release the unit with 30 days’ notice, ceasing monthly payments.
3. Accessibility Modifications: FEMA may make temporary modifications to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities, restoring the property to its original condition upon lease termination.
4. Waived Credit Screening: Credit checks for eligible applicants will be waived.
5. Reassignment of Units: Vacated units may be reassigned to other eligible applicants in need of temporary housing.
6. Maintenance Responsibility: Property owners must handle all building maintenance.
7. Good Standing Requirements: Property owners must be current on mortgage payments and possess a valid rental license.

FEMA encouraged all eligible property management companies operating in hurricane-affected areas to participate in this program and help support displaced Floridians in their recovery journey.

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(Image credit: Photo by Katrina Elsken/Lake Okeechobee News)