Disaster Damage & Loss Assessment
In times of disaster—such as hurricanes, floods, storms, or other emergencies—collecting detailed damage reports helps county, state, and federal partners understand community needs and expedite resources.
This assessment does not replace insurance claims or official reporting; instead, it provides vital data to guide recovery efforts and determine eligibility for assistance programs.
Which Survey Should You Complete?
We use different surveys depending on the type of property / entity. Please select the one that matches your situation:
Survey | Use This If... | What You’ll Report |
---|---|---|
iSTAT (Residential) | You are a homeowner or renter reporting damage to your primary residence | Extent of damage, photos, cost estimates, occupancy status |
pSTAT (Business / Infrastructure / Agriculture) | You represent a business, farm, non-residential facility, or public infrastructure | Structural damage, equipment loss, business interruption, repair estimates |
Important: Please fill out only the survey that fits your property type. Submitting both may create confusion or duplicate entries.
Residence Damage Survey (iSTAT)
iSTAT is designed to deploy early in a disaster impacted area to gather Initial Damage Assessment information and assess the scope and size of an event impacting residences, businesses and/or agricultural losses. The tool is used on an ongoing basis to certify damage levels in the event of a joint Preliminary Damage Assessment with federal partners.
Business Damage Survey (pSTAT)
pSTAT is designed for local officials and trained damage assessment teams to collect location, severity and costs associated with public infrastructure losses. The tool is intended for local jurisdictions to provide direct access with various download options for tactical and strategic decision making.
What This Assessment Is (and Isn’t)
To avoid misunderstandings, here are a few clarifications:
-
This is not an insurance claim — your responses are not submitted to your insurance company.
-
This is not a guarantee of assistance — filling out this survey helps inform decisions, but does not automatically result in funding or aid.
-
Information you provide is used for planning and disaster response, and shared with relevant agencies for resource allocation.
-
Accuracy matters — please be as detailed and honest as possible. If you’re unsure about a cost or damage measurement, provide your best estimate and note uncertainties.
-
You may be asked later by county or state staff to validate or inspect reported damage (if needed).
How to Complete the Survey
-
Select the correct survey (iSTAT or pSTAT) for your property type.
-
Fill out all required fields, upload clear photos of damage, and provide explanations where needed.
-
If possible, submit as soon as possible following the disaster event to ensure timely processing.
-
After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation (email / receipt / reference number).
-
Keep a copy of your survey responses and supporting photos for your records.
Tips for Better Reporting
-
Take photos from multiple angles, including before/after if available
-
Include a scale (e.g. ruler or object in the image) so size is clear
-
Note whether the damage is structural, cosmetic, or related to content loss
-
For businesses, include revenue loss / interruption estimates if possible
-
Provide contact information so staff can follow up if needed