HUD announces relief for Texas disaster victims

THE U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced this week that it is extending a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures for everyone. Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured mortgage loans to the Texas federal disaster area following severe weather, tornadoes and flooding that struck several counties beginning April 26.

The initially declared federal disaster area included Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity and Walker counties. Gov. Greg Abbott (R) added Calhoun, Delta, Jones and Lamar counties to the state-designated disaster area on Wednesday, but those areas have not yet been added to the federally declared area .

HUD’s relief includes a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures for FHA-insured loans, in addition to those provided under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program for Native American borrowers. Additionally, Texas residents with Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs) in these counties will be granted a 90-day extension during a foreclosure appraisal.

“Homeowners affected by the disaster should contact their mortgage or loan servicer immediately for assistance,” HUD said in its statement. “Conventional mortgage holders may also be eligible for further relief through their mortgage holder. »

Areas suffered severe damage after a total of 14 tornadoes struck the region starting April 26, according to the National Weather Service and reports from a local NBC News affiliate. One tornado had winds of 110 mph, while others caused severe damage to homes, trees and vehicles.

Subsequent declaration by The Texas Tribune said at least three people were killed by the storms as the state and federal governments began counting the damage.

Another severe weather system hit the city of Houston last week, which could leave parts of the city without power for weeks. At least four deaths have been confirmed.

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