The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has declared federal disaster assistance for the State of Washington in response to severe winter storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that occurred from January 5 to January 29, 2024. President Biden issued a major disaster declaration for several counties and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.
HUD is taking immediate action to support survivors of the disaster. According to a statement from the department, "Homeowners affected by the disaster should contact their mortgage or loan servicer immediately for assistance." Additionally, there is a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of certain mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and for Native American borrowers guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program.
For those whose homes have been destroyed or damaged, HUD's Section 203(h) program provides FHA insurance for disaster victims, offering 100 percent financing including closing costs. The Section 203(k) loan program allows individuals to finance the purchase or refinance of a house along with its repair through a single mortgage.
HUD is also working to connect FEMA and the State with housing providers and HUD programs in the impacted counties, including Public Housing Agencies and Multi-Family owners. Additionally, recipients of various HUD programs can apply for administrative flexibility in response to natural disasters.
Furthermore, HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are available to assist individuals impacted by the disaster in determining their assistance needs and available resources. The Department is also prepared to address any housing discrimination that may occur during the recovery process.
Individuals who believe they have experienced housing discrimination following the disaster are encouraged to file a fair housing complaint with HUD. Assistance is available for persons with limited English proficiency, as well as for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
HUD is committed to providing support and resources to Washington survivors as they navigate the challenges of recovery in the aftermath of the disaster.
