The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced the provision of federal disaster assistance to Georgia following Hurricane Helene, which began affecting the state on September 24, 2024. This aid is designed to support state and local recovery efforts in the impacted areas.
President Biden has issued a major disaster declaration for Georgia, enabling HUD to implement several relief measures. These include a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures for mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and those guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. A similar extension applies automatically to Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.
Homeowners affected by the hurricane are encouraged to contact their mortgage or loan servicer immediately for assistance. Conventional mortgage holders may also qualify for additional relief through their lenders.
To assist homeowners whose properties were destroyed or severely damaged, HUD’s Section 203(h) program offers FHA insurance, allowing borrowers from participating lenders to secure 100 percent financing, including closing costs.
HUD's Section 203(k) loan program is available for financing both home purchase and rehabilitation through a single mortgage. This option allows homeowners to finance repairs if their homes sustained damage during the hurricane.
Additionally, HUD will share information with FEMA and Georgia regarding housing providers with available units in affected counties. The department will connect FEMA and state officials with experts who can provide insights into HUD programs and resources.
Flexibility is being offered to Community Planning and Development Grantees, Public Housing Agencies, Tribes, and Tribally Designated Housing Entities in applying for administrative waivers due to this federally declared disaster.
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are prepared to assist individuals impacted by natural disasters in assessing their needs and identifying available resources. These services are free of charge for foreclosure prevention counseling.
In cases of housing discrimination that may arise as people seek new accommodations post-disaster, HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity is ready to assist those who believe they have faced discrimination. Complaints can be filed with HUD within one year of any discriminatory act experienced.
For further information on these initiatives or filing complaints related to housing discrimination, affected individuals are encouraged to visit HUD's website or contact relevant helplines provided by the department.
