When considering Category B, it is important to not forget the activities performed in preparing for a disaster.
In the event of a hurricane, where an agency may have three to five days notice, eligible costs would typically start with the activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and the evacuation itself. Additionally, costs incurred for boarding windows and sandbagging prior to an event would be eligible.
Historically, Category B is controversial, since the terms immediate threat, cost effective and health and safety are somewhat subjective. Every agency views threats and responds to them differently, whereas FEMA staff typically define threats as spelled out in their written policies.
In both of the above categories of work, we encourage our clients to do what has to be done to get back to normal. This serves two purposes: it allows you to get back to day-to-day operations as quickly as possible; and it demonstrates to FEMA that you are not taking action solely because they are providing aid.
The damage must be directly related to the disaster. It cannot be a pre-existing condition nor caused by an event after the official period of incidence. Repairs to structures (bridges, etc.) may be made when the estimated repair cost is less than the estimated replacement cost, unless the structure is damaged greater than 50%. If a structure is damaged to the extent that repairs exceed 50% of the replacement costs, funding may be provided to replace the structure. The Subrecipient also may choose to make...