HBAs Stand Ready When Disasters Strike

The devastating floods that first hit South Carolina last week have impacted many NAHB members and their families as thousands of residents were forced to evacuate their homes and businesses. Others remained trapped in their homes as they waited for rescue personnel. The historic rain event has impacted virtually the entire state.

As residents are finally able to return home, many will find significant water damage to their homes and belongings.

When natural disaster strikes a community, the local HBA is often called upon to serve as a resource for residents whose lives have been devastated by the event. NAHB stands ready to assist HBAs and members with resources to help local consumers and building industry members during the recovery efforts.

Members and HBA staff can sign in to the NAHB website and download toolks from the Natural Disaster Resources Toolkit, including:

• Radio PSA scripts to warn consumers about unscrupulous contractors following a disaster.
• Government assistance links and information from FEMA, the Red Cross and the Small Business Administration on disaster recovery.
• Community outreach case studies that profile HBA leaders across the country who have faced man-made and natural disasters in their hometowns.

You can also direct consumers to additional resources on NAHB’s disaster recovery resources page.

South Carolina residents have been warned the effects of the flooding and standing water could get worse in the coming days before it begins to subside. If you would like to donate to the flood relief efforts, the Building Industry Association of Central South Carolina’s Charitable Foundation will accept donations to assist members and their families.

Checks should be made payable to Building Industry Charitable Foundation, 625 Taylor Street, Columbia, SC 29201. Please note “Flood Relief Fund” on the check.