A couple in Gulfport, Becky McCoy and Jim Newman, faced a significant setback in their recovery efforts after waiting nearly five months for a permit from city officials to repair their roof and the damage left by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Initially, a substantial damage determination letter from November indicated that their home suffered less than 6% damage. 

However, a recent letter from city officials brought a shocking update: the new assessment reported 61.3% damage, which requires them to either completely tear down or elevate their entire house. This was a harsh blow for the couple, who had spent months complying with the city’s evolving requirements to get their permit.

Jim Newman, frustrated with the situation, questioned what the next steps would be after receiving the permit.

Amidst hurricanes and flooding, storm victims are struggling to return to their homes after last year’s hurricane season. FEMA’s “50% rule” is a complex regulation that can force homeowners in flood zones to rebuild at higher elevations if repair costs exceed 50% of the home’s market value. Local building officials deliver this challenging news.

As stated by spokesperson Justin Shea, the City of Gulfport is addressing significant discrepancies in damage assessments. Approximately 25% of assessments have been found inaccurate, and the city is reviewing cases in clusters.

Federal officials encourage upgrades in vulnerable areas to prevent future flooding during storms, as taxpayers bear the cost through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Residents are also questioning the city’s inspection process, which, in some cases, involved inspectors taking pictures from the sidewalk without reviewing the home’s interior.

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