Homeowners ask for help from FEMA

EAST LYME, Conn. (WTNH) -- The numbers are in and more than 7,000 property owners on Connecticut shoreline have applied for federal assistance after Sandy. Tuesday FEMA opened another disaster relief center in East Lyme.

"I have another question, did you live in the house?"

John Knaus and his daughter have been making their rounds. Armed with pictures of a house gutted by Sandy, they're checking to see what help they can get for their Shore Road home.

"What kind of damage did you suffer over there," asked News 8's Tina Detelj.

"Probably $300,00," John Knaus, East Lyme.

Homeowners insurance won't help and flood insurance will cover some of the costs. They are hoping FEMA can kick in the rest so they came down to the newly opened Disaster Recovery Center at East Lyme Town Hall.

"Here's your next option, we can send you over to the SBA, the small business administration," a FEMA worker said.

They are referred to SBA to see about a low interest loan. Since the house isn't their primary residence they're not eligible for FEMA funds.

It turns out because Knaus didn't have anyone living there at the time of the storm, he's not eligible for that low interest loan either. He'll have to depend solely on flood insurance. For most folks though who had their primary residence affected, anything not covered by flood insurance could be picked up by FEMA.

Like housing expenses if you have to rent another home.

"But you have to do two things," said Cleo Howell, FEMA, "register with FEMA and also notify your insurance company."

And you have to do that by the December 31 deadline. Folks at FEMA say it is always a good idea to register so you can explore all your options.

"I didn't solve anything," said Knaus, "but I had some good conversation with wonderful people and they were very helpful."

That help is available in more places now. Disaster Recovery Centers opened this week in Fairfield, East Lyme, and Norwalk.