Following the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, City of Tampa officials have outlined the next steps as residents and business owners prepare to receive substantial damage assessment letters in the mail.

These letters will detail the extent of the damage, which has been estimated based on a visual assessment conducted by city officials in the flood hazard areas affected by the hurricanes.

FEMA calculates substantial damage based on the depreciation of the property’s structure to determine what remodeling or rebuilding improvements can be made to homes or businesses.

According to Abbye Feeley, Development and Economic Opportunity Administrator, residents who receive these letters should fill out the attached substantial damage determination form to identify any further required actions, such as applying for a building permit.

Completing this form is not only a legal requirement but also a necessary step to help reduce flood insurance premiums throughout the city.

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(Image credit: WFLA)