Frequently Asked Questions
What does SHUR do?
SHUR is a non-profit corporation performing repair services for homeowners whose residence was damaged by Hurricane Harvey and its associated flooding. We assist homeowners who cannot afford commercial services to rebuild their home.
How is SHUR funded?
SHUR is funded by both public (government grants) and private (donations) funds.
What are the program’s eligibility requirements?
SHUR assists homeowners who:
own one and only one home in the Zip Codes we service
were living in their home in August 2017
cannot afford commercial or market-rate repair services
commit to residing in the property for at least three years
commit to maintaining flood insurance for three years
What ZIP Codes does SHUR support?
77004, 77005, 77012, 77017, 77021, 77023, 77025, 77030, 77031, 77033, 77034, 77035, 77036, 77045, 77047, 77048, 77051, 77053, 77054, 77061, 77071, 77072, 77074, 77075, 77081, 77082, 77083, 77085, 77087, 77096, 77098, 77099, 77401.
What can I expect from a SHUR repair?
SHUR assists homeowners who cannot afford commercial services to repair their home. A SHUR repaired home will be safe, sanitary, and secure. Our repairs are “standard” and not customized for each home (for example, paint choices will be limited). We do not do any remodeling. All repairs requiring a permit are permitted and will be up to code.
Can SHUR do handicap retrofit?
Yes, dependent on the needs of the homeowner. Please apply.
Can SHUR weatherization?
Yes, dependent on the needs of the homeowner. Please apply.
Can SHUR elevate my home?
No, elevating a home is outside of our skill set and requires a licensed engineer and shoring company. The cost of elevating a home is cost prohibitive, and SHUR is not offering this service or funding for elevating a home.
Can SHUR repair my roof?
Possibly, but you will need to apply to the program.
Can SHUR replace my windows?
Possibly, but you will need to apply to the program.
How long does the rebuilding process take?
SHUR is dependent on having funds and volunteers to perform its work. We are not as timely as commercial services and homeowners should expect that our repairs may take longer than traditional commercial for profit services.
Can SHUR send volunteers out to my home this weekend?
No, our program has an application process and we are not able to source out volunteers to homeowners, churches, schools, etc. that are in immediate need of volunteer labor.
I have the supplies, I just need the labor. Can SHUR send people to my home?
Possibly, depending on the homeowner’s need and the skill level required of our volunteers. Requests will be considered on a case by case basis. Please apply.
Can SHUR work on my rental property?
No.
I have a contractor already; can SHUR provide me with a grant to rebuild my home (or some iteration of this)?
No. The grants are specific to our organization and have been awarded by federal and/or city government and cannot be doled out to individual contractors.
When can SHUR come fix my home?
There is a process that you will need to follow, we are not able to give you a definitive timeline because there are a number of moving factors including your returning a completed application and supplying the requested documentation.
I have an empty lot; can SHUR build me a new home?
No. Our funding does not allow for us to do new homes. We are only able to work on repairing existing structures.
Can SHUR fix my garage, fence, or other detached building?
Generally, no. Many of our funding sources only allow us to work on the actual home and not external or detached structures. However, in specific circumstances we may be able to make an exception. Please apply.