Politics & Government
Residents & Business Owners: Report Storm Damage
Property and business owners encouraged to submit damage reports from the recent snow and ice storm. Web page and call center open through January 31, 2012.
The January 2012 snow and ice storm had impacted thousands King County residents. Help may be available for eligible homeowners and businesses that suffered property damage or other losses. A Damage assessment process will determine eligibility for those without insurance. The process also accounts for the total reported losses within King County.
In order to compute the losses, individuals and businesses are encouraged to submit reports to the King County Office of Emergency Management (OEM).
This can be cone one of two ways, online: www.kingcounty.gov/damage, or by phone during business hours: 1-800-523-5044. These two reporting systems will be open until 5 p.m. on January 31. The county cautions that submitting a report does not guarantee reimbursement.
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Damage reports are for uninsured losses only. Document damage with photographs, keep records of all cleanup and repair costs and contact your insurance provider before filing a damage report.
Residents in unincorporated King County whose homes were damaged in the storm can obtain free building inspections from the King County Department of Development and Environmental Services (DDES), which has waived the associated fee to help residents’ speed up the repair process. Priority service will be given for damaged structures requiring permits for repair work.
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Inspectors will evaluate the integrity of structures, assess if a structure is safe to occupy, and whether a permit is required for repair work. Inspection staff may also advise customers of the need to pursue a more detailed inspection from a licensed structural engineer to determine the full extent of the damage. While storm damage inspections are free, standard permit fees still apply.
To request a damage assessment inspection during business hours, call 206-296-6630. The King County Department of Development and Environmental Services operates Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. For minor repairs, permits can be issued over the counter DDES, located at 900 Oakesdale Ave. SW in Renton.
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