Construction Law
Contract Review in the Wake of a Hurricane Part 2
When Hurricane Florence touched down in North Carolina, contractors across the state knew they would play a significant role in helping the Tar Heel State recover. North Carolina governor Roy Cooper called Florence an “epic storm,” and he wasn’t wrong. After the storm subsided, mounting floods caused additional damage to homes and displaced even more people.
Once the rain finally stopped, and the winds reverted back to their routine calm, roughly 500,000 homes and businesses in North Carolina were stranded without power. Recovering after a hurricane is often a joint effort between contractors and government on the local, state, and federal level. Oftentimes, a Raleigh contractor attorney can act as a mediator between these two parties.
In part one, we explored the necessary precautions for contractors looking to help fix homes after a hurricane and briefly discussed how construction law experts can help ensure that you are compensated for your work. In part two, we will discuss Operation Blue Roof and Blue Tarp contracts.
Operation Blue Roof
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) launched Operation Blue Roof in 2004 to help provide temporary coverings for homes that have been damaged in a natural disaster. The program installs tarps as a stopgap solution during the interim period before repairs can be assessed and implemented. Wooden strips are attached to the roof with nails or screws, and then the tarp is fastened over it to prevent debris and water from entering the home. Some important things to know about Operation Blue Roof include:
- To qualify, less than 50 percent of the roof can be damaged and it has to retain a level of structural integrity that can safely support a work crew.
- The homeowner must complete a right of entry (ROE) form allowing the government and contractor employees to work on their property. Call 1-888-766-3258 to locate an ROE center in your county.
- Damages are assessed by county, and the counties with the most damage are assisted first.
- During active hurricane seasons, a national shortage of blue tarps can slow the installation process during disaster relief.
Blue Tarp Contracts
Blue Tarp Contracts are handed out to contractors during disaster relief efforts to help protect homes that have suffered damage as a result of a storm. These contracts are produced quickly to allow contractors to get to work immediately. Unfortunately, this expediency can result in unqualified contractors being awarded contracts they aren’t prepared to fulfill. Still, Blue Tarp Contracts are an effective way to help your community while earning money. Consult a Raleigh contractor lawyer to review your Blue Tarp Contracts.
If you would like to speak with a Raleigh construction litigation lawyer, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.