The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced the implementation of federal disaster assistance for Maine following severe winter storms that occurred from April 3 to April 5, 2024. This move follows President Biden's major disaster declaration for Cumberland and York counties.
Effective immediately, HUD is providing a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), as well as foreclosures of mortgages to Native American borrowers guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. Additionally, there is a 90-day extension granted automatically for Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.
Homeowners affected by the disaster are advised to contact their mortgage or loan servicer promptly for assistance. Conventional mortgage holders may also be eligible for additional relief through their mortgage holder. For more information, individuals can call the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320 or visit the FHA Disaster Relief site.
HUD’s Section 203(h) program will provide FHA insurance to disaster victims whose homes have been destroyed or severely damaged, enabling them to receive 100 percent financing including closing costs from participating FHA-approved lenders. Furthermore, HUD's Section 203(k) loan program allows individuals to finance both the purchase or refinance of a house and its repair through a single mortgage.
Information on housing providers and HUD programs will be shared with FEMA and state authorities to assist in locating available units in impacted counties. This includes Public Housing Agencies and Multi-Family owners. Subject matter experts will also be connected with FEMA and state officials to provide information on HUD programs and providers.
Recipients of various Community Planning and Development Grants such as CDBG, HOPWA, CoC, ESG, HOME Program, and HTF Program funds can apply for administrative flexibility in response to natural disasters. Public Housing Agencies can also apply for waivers and flexibilities needed for disaster relief and recovery.
Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities are eligible to apply for regulatory waivers needed for administrative flexibility. They should contact their local Office of Native American Programs or email Codetalk@hud.gov for detailed information on how to apply.
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are prepared to assist those impacted by natural disasters in determining their assistance needs and available resources. These services are free of charge and accessible through various means including online searches or calling (800) 569-4287.
Additionally, HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity is ready to assist individuals who believe they have experienced housing discrimination following the disaster. Complaints can be filed by calling HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or visiting HUD's website. Assistance is available in multiple languages, including support via the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339 for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
