Forum on Irene at County Library in Manalapan Monday

The Board of Public Utilities will hold a public hearing in Monmouth County for Monmouth County residents who were negatively impacted by Hurricane Irene’s destruction. The open forum will take place on Monday, Sept. 26 at the on 125 Symmes Drive in Manalapan, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

County citizens, elected officials, representatives of the power companies, and all other responders during and after Hurricane Irene are encouraged to comment about any concerns they have in regard to the destruction caused by Irene and the response following the storm.

A press release issued by Senator Jennifer Beck, Assemblyman Declan J. O’Scanlon and Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande said that the Hurricane Irene Planning and Response Open Public Hearing is so that people who suffered significant property loss know they will not be alone as communities effected by flooding and storm damage are rebuilt. 

“Our office is open to answer your questions or find the appropriate agency that can help you. State agencies have also launched programs and issued advice for homeowners, and businesses impacted by this disaster,” the press release said. “You should be aware of this important information.”

Property Damage

• Assess and document all damaged or missing items
• Make temporary repairs
• Keep a record of all living expenses made until home is rebuilt, if it is uninhabitable
• Check deadline on insurance company to see when you need to file a claim by
• Need help locating your insurance agent's phone number? Contact the state Department of Banking and Insurance (DOBI) at 1-800-446-7467 or www.njdobi.org.
• After claim is filed an adjuster will survey the damage for free
• Don't feel rushed to agree on a settlement
• Attempt to resolve problems with insurance company, and contact DOBI for information about arbitration or mediation
• Be cautious of fraudulent contractors - get a written estimate and don't sign a contract before an adjuster surveys the damage

More advice can be found on the DOBI Web site.

New Jersey has been designated a federal disaster site and there are a number of different home assistance grants, loans and unemployment payments that can be received. To start the disaster application process call 1-800-621-FEMA or visit the Disaster Assistance Web site.

For more information on what type of federal aid is being offered for New Jersey Hurricane irene victims, click here.

Disrupted Business

New Jersey's Business Action Center is available for damaged and disrupted businesses. Call 1-866-534-7789 or visit their Web site.

The Business Action Center offers:

• Financial support
• Technical assistance
• Information about temporary office space
• Access to credit
• Pays to train workers for disaster relief and getting back in operation
• Provides information on federal assistance
• Advocates for expedited insurance settlements and building inspections

Fraud

The state Division of Consumer Affairs would like to warn citizens to be on high alert for scams that single out people in distress.

Be sure to not get swindled by charities or contractors:

• Make sure contractors or charities are registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs
• Do not pay for the total of a home improvement project until it is completed
• Do not give out personal financial information to strangers over the phone or via the internet
• Report all suspicious activity to the Division of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-242-5846 or online at the NJ Consumer Affairs Web site. More info can be found here.