Debris Removal
Samaritan’s Purse
Homeowners who need free assistance removing debris can call the organization at 833-747-1234
What to do:
Separate the debris into the following categories:
- Large appliances: refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves, ovens, etc.
- Construction debris: building materials, drywall, lumber, carpet, furniture, plumbing, etc.
- Vegetative debris: tree branches, leaves, logs, plants, etc.
- Hazardous waste: oil, battery, pesticides, paint, cleaning supplies, etc.
- Electronics: TVs, computers, laptops, stereos, phones, DVD players, etc.
These items should be placed on the curbside for crews to pick up.
What to avoid:
- Residents should “never touch, cut, remove, or place debris on downed lines.” This is life-threatening and can cause injury or damage.
- Placing debris “near or on trees, poles or other structures,” such as fire hydrants and meters, makes it hard to remove.
- Moreover, placing debris near utility boxes or lines can also be dangerous as it can cause injury or damage.
Do not block roadways or access to property with debris so crews can get through safely.
If you need assistance with clearing debris contact Samaritan’s Purse Disaster Relief:
Samaritan’s Purse
Homeowners who need free assistance removing debris can call the organization at 833-747-1234
Follow County guidelines for disposal of debris.
Other Services
Fraud Protection
If you believe you or a loved one are the victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the Office of the Attorney General by calling (501) 682-2007 or visit the website here.
- The Attorney General’s office can assist by notifying citizens if a contractor is in good business standing or if there are outstanding business complaints.
- Citizens can file complaints about contractors (licensed or unlicensed ) at the link below: https://arkansasag.gov/resources/contact-us/file-a-consumer-complaint/
- To file a complaint via mail please call 501-682-2007 to request a form to file a complaint.
Sheep Dog Impact Assistance
Veteran assistance
417-812-6035
The U.S. Small Business Association
Stands Ready to Assist Arkansas Businesses and Residents
Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Arkansas businesses and residents as a result of President Biden’s major disaster declaration.
Please visit sba.gov/disaster to apply for SBA assistance online.
Assistance with Substance Use Disorder
Assistance with Clearing Debris
Contact Samaritan’s Purse Disaster Relief: 501-519-3810
Displaced Livestock and Animals
Arkansas Department of Agriculture Dispatch: 1-501-332-2000 or 1-800-468-8834
Home Inspection
INSpect ARKansas team INSPARK 501-319-5036
Hiring a Contractor to Repair Storm Damage
Legitimate, licensed contractors will be there to help Arkansas citizens recover. Unfortunately, the widespread damage also brings out dishonest “storm chasing” contractors hoping to take advantage of vulnerable consumers.
With this in mind, it is important for the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board to point out some tips in selecting and hiring contractors to repair this damage in order to protect against financial and emotional loss. The tips are as follows:
- Plan your project: Detail what you want done and the type of contractor you will need to complete it. No two projects are the same and may require a specialty licensed contractor.
- Get 2-3 estimates: When comparing estimates from different contractors, don’t just compare the bottom line cost. Look at the cost and quality of materials for each one. Be sure the estimate includes the total price, the materials to be used, a time table for payments and the expected time for completion of the work.
- Check at least 3 references: Ask your contractor for three references in writing. When speaking with the references ask if they were satisfied with the contractor’s work. Ask if the contractor kept to the schedule and contract terms.
- Require a written contract: The contract should be a detailed description of the work to be done, the material to be used and the equipment to be installed. Be sure there is a schedule of payments and a time line for when the work will be completed. Any changes that occur should be noted in writing.
- NEVER PAY ANY MONEY UP FRONT AND DO NOT MAKE FINAL PAYMENT UNTIL THE JOB IS COMPLETE: Beware of a contractor who is asking for a payment so they can buy the materials to begin your project. NEVER pay for something that has not been completed and DO NOT pay for anything in cash.
- Monitor the job in progress and keep all the paper work: Check in regularly on the progress. Be sure to keep a file of all papers and documents, including the contract, written changes, bills and invoices. This should also include photos of the job in progress.
- Verify that the contractor has the appropriate licenses and permits to do the job: Get proof that the contractor has the necessary licenses and permits by contacting the State Licensing Board and/or the city in which the work is to be performed.
Please remember that if you have any questions at all about the contractor you wish to use, you may contact the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board at (501) 372-4661
Are You a Business Owner Looking to Help with Disaster Recovery?
Click here to register your business with Arkansas’ Business Emergency Listing (ABEL)