The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is urging recipients of disaster loans in Florida to apply for additional funding aimed at protecting their properties from future storm damage. Those who have received loans may request an increase of up to 20% of their verified physical damages within two years from their loan approval to finance improvements.
Eligible mitigation projects might involve enhancing landscaping for improved drainage, installing French drains or sump pumps, and reinforcing structures against high winds.
"One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage," stated Chris Stallings, the associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. "I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s physical damage loans."
To get more information on mitigation options, individuals are encouraged to visit the SBA website. Loan applications can be submitted online through the SBA disaster portal. Inquiries can also be made via the SBA's Customer Service Center phone line or by emailing their customer service.
For those who are deaf or hard of hearing or have speech disabilities, the telecommunications relay services can be accessed by dialing 7-1-1.
The SBA seeks to support American entrepreneurship and small business growth, offering resources for business initiation, expansion, or disaster recovery through a network of field offices and partnerships.