How can Disaster Services help me with temporary housing?
Disaster Services will work with you and your insurance company to locate suitable housing for you and your family while your home is being rebuilt. We will locate the property, negotiate a short-term lease, provide furniture and amenities if needed, and coordinate payment with your insurance company.
How is my home furnished?
Disaster Services will provide you with all the items necessary to live comfortably in your temporary home. If you have special needs, we will work with you.
What is my minimum length of stay?
Your insurance adjusters determines approximately how long it will take to complete repairs to your home. The lease terms will vary in length depending upon that initial determination and include an option to extend on a month-to-month basis. Shorter-term hotel stays can also be arranged.
Are pets welcome?
Pet are welcome on a case-by-case basis. An additional pet deposit may be required.
Who pays utilities?
In most cases, utilities including gas, electric, phone and cable are placed in your name. Disaster Services staff can provide contact numbers to assist you in transferring all utilities. You may consult with your insurance adjuster to determine if any reimbursement is available to you.
How is Disaster Services different from other temporary housing companies?
Disaster Services began in Annapolis, Maryland and we now service clients nationwide. We understand the importance of placing people in temporary housing close to their families, friends, schools and work. Additionally, Disaster Services signs all leases for our clients which gives them ultimate peace of mind and gives a stronger negotiating position with property owners to provide our clients with the best possible housing options.
What kind of housing is available?
We can locate single-family homes, townhomes or apartments throughout the mid-Atlantic area. Properties are available furnished or unfurnished.
How quickly can you place a family into temporary housing?
Disaster Services can provide hotel accommodations quickly while we begin our search for the optimum housing solution. Disaster Services will work quickly to ensure that the client is placed in a temporary home that works for everyone. Once housing has been accepted by all parties we can place a family within 24-72 hours.
How do you handle security deposits?
We will advance all monies for a security deposit and invoice the insurance adjuster for direct payment. This gives the policy holders peace of mind and allows the housing process to move faster.
What about phone and utility charges?
Most insurance companies prefer the tenant pay all utility charges. These expenses may or may not be covered under the homeowner’s policy. We advise the policyholder to discuss these payments with you directly.
Can the lease be renewed?
Yes. All leases will have the option to be renewed.
What about pets?
We can accommodate most pets. Many communities and property owners will accept pets on a case-by-case basis. We can even setup temporary kenneling for a pet if necessary.
What furnishings are included in temporary housing?
Disaster Services will provide the client with all the items necessary to live comfortably in their temporary home. This includes special needs and families with unique circumstances.