The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced federal disaster assistance for Tennessee in response to the severe winter storm that occurred from January 22 to 27, 2026. The announcement was made by HUD Secretary Scott Turner, following President Trump's major disaster declaration for the state on February 6, 2026.
“One of our core responsibilities at HUD is to help rebuild homes, businesses, and communities after natural disasters,” said HUD Secretary Scott Turner. “We are supporting residents of Tennessee by providing financial flexibility and disaster recovery resources to those impacted by the recent disaster.”
Effective immediately, HUD is implementing several measures to support affected residents:
A 90-day moratorium on foreclosures has been issued for mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and Native American borrowers with loans under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. Home Equity Conversion Mortgages will also receive a 90-day extension. These actions are effective as of the date of the President’s disaster declaration. Homeowners impacted by the storm are encouraged to contact their mortgage or loan servicer for assistance. Additional relief may be available for conventional mortgage holders through their lenders.
HUD's Section 203(h) program offers FHA insurance for homeowners and tenants whose homes were destroyed or significantly damaged, allowing them access to 100 percent financing including closing costs from participating FHA-approved lenders.
The Section 203(k) loan program enables individuals to finance both the purchase or refinance and repair of a home through a single mortgage. This option is also available for homeowners needing rehabilitation due to storm damage.
Information about available housing units in affected counties will be shared with FEMA and state officials, including details from Public Housing Agencies and multi-family property owners. HUD will also provide expertise on its programs to assist with recovery efforts.
Recipients of various Community Planning and Development grants—including Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA), Continuum of Care (CoC), Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and Housing Trust Fund (HTF)—can apply for administrative flexibility in response to this major disaster declaration.
Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities receiving Indian Housing Block Grants or Indian Community Development Block Grants can seek regulatory waivers as part of their recovery process.
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are prepared to assist those affected by natural disasters with identifying needs and resources. Counseling services are free for foreclosure prevention, regardless of whether clients have an FHA-insured mortgage.
The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity is available to help anyone who believes they have experienced housing discrimination while seeking housing after the disaster. Complaints can be filed with HUD or local fair housing agencies; more information is available on HUD’s website.
