When a renovation company transports waste from renovation activities, it must contain the waste to prevent the release of dust and debris. The Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule does not address the responsibilities of other entities. The EPA recommends consulting with state and local waste disposal authorities for any additional requirements. It is reasonable to believe that after a major hurricane, debris will spread over a large area.
Removing debris from your property, no matter who owns the debris, will likely be the responsibility of the owner of the property where the debris ends up. Insurance companies generally agree that property losses caused by the debris of other property will likely be the responsibility of the owner of the property where the debris ends up. However, this may be subject to legal interpretation. In those cases, FEMA works with state and local governments to designate specific areas where the removal of debris from private properties is eligible for funding.
If debris in private businesses and residential properties is so widespread that the public health, safety, or economic recovery of the community is threatened, FEMA can finance the removal of debris from private property, but it must have prior approval from FEMA. Contact your local municipal, county, or private waste disposal organization to determine waste disposal responsibilities, plans, and timelines. Sometimes, FEMA may determine that the removal of debris from private property is eligible for funding from the program. In those cases, the removal of debris should be in the public interest and not just benefit one person or a limited group of people.
Removing debris from private property is the responsibility of homeowners and is generally not eligible for reimbursement under the FEMA Public Assistance Program. They may have hired, in advance, a company that specializes in debris removal in case local resources are overwhelmed. You should talk to your insurance agent about the specific debris removal coverage, if any, on your policy.
