Please note that home demolition requires proper permitting and should always be undertaken by a company or agency that is equipped and trained to do so and has proper worker’s compensation insurance. This information is in no way to be considered authorized by any entity- local, state or federal, nor should it be construed as legal counsel. Old Fort Help cannot provide demolition and the information provided here is simply provided as a starting point for those dealing with demolition during Hurricane Helene, which is a special circumstance. 

If you are facing this dreadful challenge, first, we just want to say that we are so sorry to hear about your need for demolition services. We will help however we are able. 

Demolition and debris cleanup is a challenging issue right now. There are a few questions you’ll want to have answers to, and a few things to do as you work through this process. We’ll start with those, then move on to actual demolition/removal of property. 

To Start, first consider the following as the answers to these questions impact the process:

Do you own or rent your home or property? 

If you rent, your landlord will likely need to handle your demolition, and you will want to be in touch with them as soon as possible.

Do you have homeowner’s insurance?

If you have insurance, did you file a claim?

If you were denied coverage, you will need to ensure your insurance company sends you a claim denial letter- you will need this for FEMA or other coverage/assistance.

About Demolition during hurricane Helene recovery

Here is what we know based on discussions with McDowell Emergency Services, and local aid organizations doing recovery work in our region:

The Army Corps of Engineers is in charge of debris removal in our area.  They will be doing home demolition/removal, but it may take a long time for them to get to that point.  The process is that they first clear debris piles within 10 feet of all primary roads, then secondary roads, and then private roads before they get to private residences.  There will be a specific process to apply for demo and ensure that you've removed any items that must be removed prior to demo (such as appliances).  The best way to stay up to date on USACE progress and to know when you can apply for home demo and removal is by following the McDowell County 911 Facebook page, or checking back here for their regularly posted EOC updates.

If you don't have the option to wait for the Army Corps to remove your home, then you will need to hire a private contractor.  The following two contractors are currently doing this kind of work in the area, and we are working on getting more contacts.  Cost will vary based on the project and the contractor's capacity to offer discounted services.

Allen Gurley, home: 828-652-9329, cell: 828-460-2700

Scott Melton : 828-442-6321

Make sure that if you do hire someone for home demo that they either haul all debris away, or follow the current debris guidelines listed by the EOC.  

Temporary Housing

If you're in need of temporary housing throughout all of this, please visit the FEMA location at the AC “Bud” Hogan Community Center/Old Fort Senior Center (909 E Main St.).

What Nonprofits can/can’t do to help

Nonprofits and aid groups, no matter how large or well-staffed with volunteers, are not able to do demolition work requiring equipment beyond hand tools. There are simply too many cost and legal requirements to be met. Several are able to help with smaller projects such as tearing out drywall or repairing a roof, but simply don't have the equipment for large-scale demo work.  They could be helpful during the demo process though, as they are able to send a group to help move furniture, personal items or appliances out of a home.  They could therefore help you remove and relocate anything you may want to keep, and remove any appliances before a full demo occurs per Army Corps guidelines. These three organizations have large volunteer groups and experienced helpers in our area:

• Baptists on Mission visit their website here (https://baptistsonmission.org/Mission-Projects/By-Mission-Type/Disaster-Relief/Hurricane-Helene/Homeowner-Assistance) and fill out a request or call them at 800-395-5102, ext 5596
• Gateway Wellness Foundation visit their website here (https://gatewaywellnessfoundation.org/hurricane-relief-repair/) and fill out a request or call them at (828)-559-9273 
• Samaritan's Purse - Call 833-747-1234 for assistance

In 28762? Apply for the Old Fort Strong Fund for repair/rebuilding of your home

If you live in the 28762 zip code, you may also apply for financial assistance with rebuilding your home after demolition through the Old Fort Strong Fund. You will want to go to their application online and apply here: Old Fort Strong Fund Lost/Damaged Home Inquiry (https://form.jotform.com/243036165052044)

Other resources available to you for financial assistance

The US Small Business Administration (SBA) provides disaster assistance loans, that have extremely low interest rates in the first year, including for homeowners. You can learn more here: SBA Disaster Assistance

Get professional advice

In addition to consulting with local demolition companies (see above), you may wish to get some legal consultation as well. There are a few resources for legal help in McDowell County helping with issues pertaining to Helene, including:

Disaster Legal Services

A toll-free hotline for low-income survivors with legal questions related to the storm. Callers can request a lawyer by calling (866) 219-5262.

Legal Aid of North Carolina

https://legalaidnc.org/tropical-storm-helene-disaster-assistance/

Offers a disaster relief clinic for housing-related issues, such as landlord-tenant issues, FEMA claims, and home repair scams. 

Pisgah Legal Services

https://www.pisgahlegal.org/helene

Provides free civil legal aid, anti-poverty advocacy, and access to health care in the 18-county WNC region.

Let us know if you have any further questions and we will do the best we can to assist!