Develop a Funding Approach

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DISASTER RECOVERY TODAY

Important Documentation for Standard Projects

Facility’s original plans and drawings

Cost data from any recent improvements or additions

Copies of all applicable codes and standards

Pre-event photographs

Historical cost data for applicable trades: e.g., electrical, mechanical

Engineering reports detailing the repair scope, code upgrades, and mitigation opportunities

Contractor estimates (if available)

...estimate for a Standard Project, double-check FEMA requirements, determine which of three types of projects to pursue, and evaluate the project for mitigation opportunities.

When reviewing these four steps, remember that as defined by FEMA, there are three basic types of project funding: Standard Projects, Improved Projects and Alternate Projects.

In addition, there are three different valuation categories to consider:

• • As it was – Facility or equipment replaced in kind, with no influencing factors such as updated codes and standards.
• • As it has to be – Facility or equipment that must be repaired or replaced in a certain manner to comply with existing codes and standards.
• • As we want it to be – Facility or equipment where there is an opportunity to make improvements (other than mitigation), or if the facility or equipment is no longer of use to the applicant.

These evaluation standards will determine what type of project repair will occur—whether you replace the original facility, improve it, or move it.

Funding Approach Step No. 1: Start with the Standard Project

Regardless of what the project may become in the future, the first step is to determine the cost for a Standard Project that will either restore the damaged facility, or fortify the facility with hazard mitigation measures. A Standard Project is a combination of “ as it was ” and “ as it has to be ” within the parameters of FEMA’s eligibility criteria.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency Applicant Handbook lists the general eligibility requirements for the permanent restoration of facilities:

• • Facilities will be restored on the basis of design, capacity and function of such facilities as they existed immediately prior to the disaster and in conformity with applicable standards.
• • Codes and standards must be in writing, apply to the type of work, and be in place and enforced prior to the...

Regardless of what the project may become in the future, the first step is to determine the cost for a Standard Project.