As NRH residents and businesses work to recover from the winter storm, this webpage will provide information and resources that may assist you. Check back periodically for updates.
Food, Housing Assistance
If you are without food or shelter call 2-1-1 to be connected to local assistance agencies.
Selecting Contractors
It is very important that you choose a reputable contractor for the work done in your home. Be wary of workers going door-to-door soliciting repair work. If you need assistance finding the right companies to complete repairs on your home or business, ask people you trust for referrals. Look up contractors on the Better Business Bureau and check references. View more tips from the BBB for hiring contractors and from FEMA for avoiding scams and fraud.
Building Permit Fees Waived
The City of North Richland Hills is waiving building permit and inspection fees for home and business repairs related to February's winter storm. The waiver is in place through May 14. The fees range from $39 to $43 depending on the work being done. Property owners who have already paid a permit fee for winter storm repair can request reimbursement. For assistance, contact 817-427-6300 or nrhpi@nrhtx.com. The City’s permit and inspection process helps ensure quality work is being done that meets current building codes and prevents similar issues from happening again in the future. Find building permit applications online and call 817-427-6300 with any questions.
Water Leak Adjustments
The City of North Richland Hills allows for leak adjustments on water accounts that had significant water loss from burst pipes as a result of the winter storm. Proof of repair such as a plumber’s bill indicating the date and location of the leak must be submitted to the Water Department for consideration of a leak adjustment within 90 days of the repair being made. Customers can also request payment plans. If you have questions, please contact the Water Department at 817-427-6200 or customerservice@nrhtx.com.
Sewer Rate Calculation
Normally, residential sewer charges are set on a Winter Quarter Average. The Winter Quarter Average is calculated each year based on your average water usage during the months of December, January February. Because many customers were dripping faucets to prevent freezing pipes or experienced burst pipes, the city has opted to leave the 2020 Winter Quarter Average in place for the next twelve months.
Atmos Gas Bill Information
Atmos Energy is addressing concerns regarding natural gas bills following the winter storm. For more information or assistance paying your bill, please visit https://www.atmosenergy.com/customer-service/winter-storm-information
Electric Bill Information
Most Texans are on fixed-rate plans for electricity, which protect you from wholesale power price swings. This means you shouldn’t see a rate increase for February usage because of the winter storm. If you used more energy than normal to heat your home during the severe cold, you could see an increase due to increased usage. The Public Utility Commission (PUC) of Texas has ordered power companies to halt disconnections for non-payment until further notice. They are also requiring providers to offer payment plans to customers when requested. Find latest updates at http://www.puc.texas.gov/winterstorm21/.
Disaster Assistance
Tarrant County has been approved for assistance as part of a federal Major Disaster Declaration. This assistance may help cover some of your costs. If you have insurance, you will need to file a claim with your insurance first and then apply to FEMA.
www.DisasterAssistance.gov
1-800-621-3362
SBA Disaster Assistance Loans
Tarrant County businesses are eligible for Winter Storm SBA Disaster loans, both for physical damage and economic injury.
SBA Disaster Assistance Fact Sheet
SBA Disaster Assistance Application
Temporary Property Tax Exemption
You may qualify for a 2021 property tax exemption. In an area declared a disaster area by the Governor, Tax Code Section 11.35 allows a qualified property that is at least 15 percent damaged by a disaster to receive a temporary exemption of a portion of the appraised value of the qualified property. A property owner must apply for the temporary exemption, and the deadline for application is 105 days after the Governor declares a disaster area. The deadline for filing the 2021 application for exemption is May 28, 2021. For more details and application information, visit the Tarrant Appraisal District at https://www.tad.org/temporary-exemption-for-disaster-damage/.
Damage Reporting
Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Division of Emergency Management are encouraging Texans to complete the Self Reporting Damage Survey to help the state and FEMA gain a better understanding of damages that occurred during the recent winter weather. The voluntary survey can be accessed at www.TDEM.texas.gov/warm..
Additional Resources