Chimney damage so far stacks up to half-million dollars

LIONA TANNESEN, THE OLYMPIAN

THURSTON COUNTY -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency has handed out nearly half a million dollars to 264 South Sound homeowners with earthquake-damaged chimneys.

Every other chimney FEMA has inspected since the February earthquake has suffered some damage.

"We're urging people to call us as soon as possible so we can get them the help as soon as possible," FEMA spokes-man Eugene Brezany said.

By Tuesday, the agency had distributed $5.1 million through its disaster housing program and $3.1 million for chimney repairs, mostly in Thurston, King and Pierce counties.

Chimneys should be inspected by local authorities before homeowners kindle the first fire after the earthquake, FEMA said in a news release.

Homeowners should not begin repairs until after the chimney has been inspected.

State law also requires building permits for chimney work.

"Improperly repaired chimneys could allow carbon monoxide fumes to leak through to living areas, threatening safety and health," FEMA state coordinating officer Diane Offord said. "Even chimneys without visible damage can contain cracks in the flue or vent."

Fifty-seven FEMA inspectors are out looking at damage, Brezany said.

FEMA had received 7,502 applications for inspections and had inspected more than half -- 4,094 -- by Tuesday, Brezany said.

Homeowners should expect to wait a week or more for an inspection, which can make them eligible for assistance.

Some FEMA disaster aid does not need to be paid back, and some is in the form of a loan.

The Small Business Administration also offers loans for chimney repairs that aren't covered by FEMA.

FEMA's aid will help homeowners get back on their feet, but it won't restore houses to their pre-earthquake conditions, Brezany said.

"I'm telling you this so that we don't raise expectations," Brezany said. "We're certainly going to get people back into a safe, secure, warm home."

Liona Tannesen writes for The Olympian. She can be reached at 754-5427.

For help

- To register with FEMA for disaster assistance and an on-site inspection, call (800) 462-9029. Those with hearing or speech impairments may call TTY (800) 462-7585.

- For advice from FEMA on chimney repairs and strengthening homes, call (800) 838-7046.

- The Olympia Disaster Recovery Center is at Westfield Shoppingtown Capital Mall next to The Bon Marche.

Chimney damage

Amounts FEMA had paid to homeowners in South Sound counties by Monday:

- $476,861 to 264 homes in Thurston County.

- $153,857 to 66 homes in Lewis County.

- $74,000 to 23 homes in Grays Harbor County.

- $53,560 to 22 homes in Mason County.

On our Site

Earthquake links

Earthquake stories archive

The Olympian Copyright 2001

back to main Earthquake Stories index