NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA (352today.com) – After a flood disaster, many people may come to your door to offer help.

While it’s good to receive assistance, FEMA reminds you that you should be careful about who you let in. This could be government workers, insurance agents, or even scammers. Always ask for ID and understand why they are there.

Here’s a list of potential visitors you might meet:

FEMA Inspector

If you apply for federal disaster assistance, a FEMA inspector may visit your home to assess property damage.

  • Carries a FEMA ID badge
  • Will inspect the damage and gather details for your claim
  • Important Tip: FEMA inspectors will never ask for money or personal information like your Social Security number.
Local Building, Permitting, and Government Officials

Local and state officials may visit to evaluate your home for safety and to assess if it can still be occupied.

  • Carry agency ID badges
  • May visit weeks or months after the disaster to gather data
Courtesy: FEMA
SBA Loss Verifier

If you apply for a Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan, an SBA loss verifier may call or visit to inspect the damage.

  • Carries an SBA ID badge
  • Gathers information for loan assessments
Local Floodplain Manager

For those in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), a local floodplain manager may visit to determine if the property is “substantially damaged” and advise on regulatory compliance.

  • Carries an agency ID badge
  • Can provide important information about current floodplain regulations
Flood Insurance Adjuster

If you have a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy, an adjuster will visit to assess the flood damage and assist in filing a claim.

  • Carries a Flood Adjuster Certification Card and a photo ID
  • Helps complete claims paperwork and take photos of the damage
Homeowners Insurance Adjuster

If you have non-flood damage and file a homeowners insurance claim, an adjuster from your insurance company will visit.

  • Carries a state-issued agency license or ID
Auto Insurance Adjuster

If your vehicle has been damaged, your auto insurance adjuster will either call or visit to assess the damage.

  • Will inspect the vehicle and process your claim
Public Adjusters

Public adjusters are third-party professionals who offer assistance in inspecting damaged homes and filing claims.

Legal Assistance

Lawyers or their representatives may offer to help with your insurance, grant, or loan claims.

  • May offer services for free, low-cost, or for a fee (up to 30% of your claim)
  • Always verify their credentials and ask about fees upfront
Community Associations

Representatives from a Homeowner’s Association (HOA) or Condo Association (CA) may visit to ensure homes comply with association rules.

  • Some HOAs or CAs may carry flood insurance for condos or townhouses
  • They may inspect homes before filing claims
Engineers and Other Experts

During the insurance claim process, additional experts like engineers may be sent by your insurance company to help determine the cause and extent of damage.

  • Will visit only with prior notification and approval from you
Scammers

Unfortunately, scammers may take advantage of disaster victims. Always remain vigilant.

  • Government and NFIP representatives never charge fees for inspections
  • Legitimate officials will never request Social Security or bank account numbers
  • Important Tip: Safeguard your personal information, and when in doubt, don’t share details.

Flood recovery can be overwhelming but knowing who’s coming to help — and how to protect yourself from scams — will ease the process. Always ask for identification, and if something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts.