Calgary, AB,
01
May
2014
|
08:42
America/Denver

The City and Canadian Red Cross launch pilot program to assist flood-affected homeowners

The City of Calgary and Canadian Red Cross (CRC) are teaming up to assist residential property owners still needing help with permits for home repairs following the June 2013 flood.  Starting May 1, 2014 homeowners facing financial challenges repairing, restoring or rebuilding their property can apply to the Flood Permit Grant program to cover the costs of new permit applications.  Up to $7,000 per property is available to candidates that qualify. The program only applies to new permit applications submitted May 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014 and is not retroactive, as assistance is aimed at those struggling financially.

The CRC has been working since last June to help families and individuals recover from the effects of the flood,” notes Matt Baden, Red Cross Recovery Supervisor for Calgary and area.  “We’re partnering with The City to help those Calgarians with the greatest needs pay for permit costs to restore their homes safely.

The first step for Calgarians interested in applying for the grant program is to contact the Red Cross at 1-866-696-6484.  The CRC will work with each applicant to discuss their unique situation, and complete an assessment to determine their eligibility into the program.”

Where applicable, a permit and inspection may be required to ensure work has resulted in a safe property. The need for permits and inspections cannot be waived as per existing City bylaws.

“The City recognizes that a number of property owners are still struggling to put their properties back in working order, which is why Council is supporting this pilot program to help them financially,” notes Mark Sasges, Flood Recovery Coordinator, Development & Building Approvals.  “We’ll be helping qualified applicants obtain the permits they require to restore their property, and ensuring completed work results in a safe building through the proper inspections.”

The average permit costs associated with repairing a flood-affected property is about $750, which can include moving an electrical panel, installing a new furnace or replacing a hot water tank.  Permit costs to demolish and rebuild a home can run between $4,000 to $7,000, depending on the size of the home.

Under the Flood Permit Grant program, approved applicants or their qualified licensed contractors are required to apply for permits in person at The City’s Planning Services Counter, 3rd Floor Municipal Building, 800 Macleod Tr. S. to ensure grant funding is applied accordingly.  Applicants or contractors can book an appointment online through The City’s eAppointment service to save time.

Both The City and the CRC are contributing $310,000 each towards the pilot program. The City’s contribution is funded by the previously approved Fiscal Stability Reserve.

The Red Cross recognizes many families are still struggling to meet their needs since the floods. The CRC can also offer assistance with such items as mortgage, rent and utility payments, household goods, medical, food, and school supplies.

For more information about the pilot program or for additional assistance provided by The City and the CRC provide, please visit:

  • Calgary.ca/floodrecovery or contact 311
  • Canadian Red Cross at redcross.ca, or 1-866-696-6484.

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