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Substantial Damage Determination Letters

Rebuilding after substantial damage is already a difficult process, but Treasure Island’s mismanagement of Substantial Damage Determination Letters has created additional obstacles for homeowners. Many residents have received inaccurate letters based on flawed inspections, forcing them into unnecessary appeals and delaying repairs. 

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Latest Information

January 23rd, 2025

How to Proceed If You Receive a Substantial Damage Letter

✔ Review Your Letter Carefully: If you receive a Substantial Damage Determination Letter, ensure the damage percentage is accurate.
✔ Consult a Licensed Contractor: Get an independent estimate of repair costs to compare with the City's assessment.
✔ File an Appeal If Necessary: If you believe your classification is incorrect, submit repair estimates, contractor reports, and independent appraisals to challenge the decision.
✔ Request Your Letter If You Haven’t Received One: Some residents must request their letters directly from the City if needed for insurance or permitting purposes.

🔹Inaccurate Assessments and Appeals Burden Homeowners

  • Residents have reported that damage assessments were conducted via "drive-by" inspections, leading to misclassified properties that require costly appeals.

  • Some homeowners who should not be classified as substantially damaged are being forced into unnecessary reconstruction or elevation requirements.

🔹Delays Persist Despite FEMA’s Approved Option 2 Process

  • Over 500 letters are still pending while the City waits for additional data, despite FEMA not requiring on-site inspections under Option 2.

  • Homeowners with correct repair estimates are still experiencing permit delays due to bureaucratic red tape.

🔹 Mayor Doctor Pushes for Efficiency, While Others Delay Progress

  • Mayor Doctor is advocating for a more streamlined process to ensure homeowners can get accurate determinations and begin rebuilding without additional hurdles.

  • Meanwhile, Commissioners Crabill, Dickey, and Toth continue to support the flawed system, ignoring the voices of frustrated residents.

How to Get Involved

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