SARASOTA, Fla. – At the request of the State of Florida and FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will continue to collect Right of Entry (ROE) forms for Operation Blue Roof through Thursday, Nov. 14, extending the original deadline by nine days. Homeowners impacted by Hurricane Milton can sign-up for this FREE service at BlueRoof.gov or by calling toll free 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258).
“We are so proud for the opportunity to continue offering the Operation Blue Roof program for Florida homeowners affected by Hurricane Milton,” said Maj. Matt Westcott, commander of USACE’s Hurricane Milton Emergency Field Office. “We want everyone in these communities to know they don’t have to suffer in silence. If you suspect even minor damage to your roof from this storm, contact us to find out more about the program and apply if you’re interested and eligible. The program is totally free and offers crucial peace of mind during this time of recovery.”
The program provides a temporary solution that protects a homeowner’s property and allows them to remain in their home. Though commonly misreferred to as a “tarp,” this is fiber-reinforced, industrial-strength sheeting that is well-suited to protect storm-damaged roofs until homeowners can make permanent repairs.
The 25 Florida counties currently eligible for Operation Blue Roof are: Brevard, Citrus, Charlotte, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Manatee, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Lucie, Sumter, and Volusia Counties.
Operation Blue Roof is a priority mission managed by USACE and FEMA. Applying for the program requires a Right of Entry, or ROE, form, which allows USACE access to a homeowner’s property to their home's damage. The ROE also allows contracted crews to complete the Blue Roof installation.
Not all roof types qualify for the program. Check the BlueRoof.gov website for details.