Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force Addresses Insurance Challenges

The Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force, led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, issued a report Monday that provides recommendations for mitigating harm from future storms. Recommendation included assisting homeowners stay in their homes after disasters by allowing quick emergency repairs, and making housing units more sustainable and resilient by encouraging smart recovery steps including elevating above flood risk and increased energy efficiency. Other recommendations included improving the wireless communications networks, making the electrical grid more flexible and protecting the supply chain for fuel.
The task force also recommended more consistent mortgage policies to keep responsible homeowners from being forced out because of short-term financial hardships. It also recommended communicating to state and local governments, residents, and workers consistent guidance on how to remediate indoor environmental pollutants such as mold.