GOHSEP FEMA-Funded Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP) for Hurricane Ida Subrecipients
Southeastern Louisiana
Project Description
Customer Challenge
One of the primary services GOHSEP wanted to offer through the DCMP was an unbiased damage assessment to provide homeowners with reliable information to secure fair estimates and avoid overcharges from contractors. Obtaining an unbiased damage estimate from a contractor can be difficult, especially when contractors have a vested interest in securing repair work. Also, after a disaster, many contractors prioritize getting started on construction projects over providing damage assessments, creating a bottleneck in the recovery process. GOHSEP needed a streamlined solution to provide bulk, independent damage assessments from a neutral party.
H2Bravo, the primary contract holder, engaged HGA to fulfill this role due to our proven track record in similar projects. H2Bravo recognized HGA’s extensive experience, technical expertise, and ability to execute the project efficiently. HGA and H2Bravo had previously collaborated in similar capacities, reinforcing confidence in HGA’s ability to deliver quality results.
Our Solution
To address GOHSEP’s needs, HGA deployed a highly experienced team to conduct unbiased damage assessments across 25 parishes. With a robust background in construction and disaster recovery, HGA efficiently provided over 4,000 initial and supplemental damage estimates. Additionally, HGA supported applicants and GOHSEP Case Managers by offering technical guidance to prevent and resolve construction delays. HGA’s damage assessments were also leveraged by the DCMP Case Managers in building appeals for applicants requesting additional federal funding.
Part of the DCMP applicant population was receiving funding for their applicant-led construction through another State grant program, the Restore Louisiana Housing Assistance Program, led by the Office of Community Development (OCD) with HGA serving as the prime Program Manager. HGA leveraged its understanding of both the DCMP and the Restore program to answer construction questions from Restore applicants leading their own construction; facilitate resolution of missing documentation; and provide status updates to keep their recovery process on track.
HGA also assisted DCMP applicants who were not receiving grant funding for construction. The damage assessments we provided this population included advice on how to prioritize construction projects. For example, if an applicant had roof, ceiling, and floor damage, we would advise them to first fix their roof to prevent any more damage from leaks, before repairing their ceilings and floor.
HGA served as a liaison between applicants, DCMP Case Managers, FEMA, contractors, and municipal offices. Our team proactively obtained critical information needed for permitting, construction approvals, and funding decisions, ensuring that recovery efforts proceeded without unnecessary interruptions. HGA’s contribution to DCMP was unmatched, as noted by the client, who stated that “not only in their excellent inspection product and attention to detail but also in the personal touch that was provided to each survivor as they worked towards recovery after Hurricane Ida.” This client-focused approach ensured that each applicant received personalized support tailored to their unique situation.
Value Delivered
By partnering with GOHSEP and H2Bravo, HGA played a pivotal role in advancing recovery efforts for Hurricane Ida survivors. Our unbiased damage assessments provided clarity and confidence to homeowners seeking to rebuild. Additionally, our active coordination with Restore Louisiana, municipalities, and contractors streamlined the process, reducing delays and inefficiencies.”
Key accomplishments of HGA’s involvement include:
- Conducting over 4,000 unbiased damage assessments to support applicants in securing fair repair estimates.
- Facilitating efficient communication between GOHSEP, Restore Louisiana, and Case Managers, preventing administrative bottlenecks.
- Assisting applicants in navigating permitting requirements, resolving FEMA damage appeals, and coordinating with contractors.
- Supporting long-term recovery groups by providing clear, compliant scopes of work.
- Optimizing scheduling and logistics to maximize productivity, averaging five hours per inspection (including travel, assessment, and reporting).
HGA’s contributions significantly enhanced the effectiveness of DCMP, setting a new standard for disaster case management programs by integrating comprehensive damage assessments within the process. This holistic approach improved recovery outcomes and increased efficiency compared to previous programs that only offered construction technical assistance without independent damage evaluations.
HGA remains committed to supporting GOHSEP’s ongoing recovery initiatives, ensuring that impacted residents receive the assistance they need to rebuild their homes and lives.