Post-Hurricane Disaster Reimbursement Claim

Project Overview

Following the devastation of Hurricane Ike, the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston County’s largest employer, faced extensive damage to over 150 buildings. A critical emergency repair contract was found non-compliant with federal procurement regulations (44 CFR, Part 13) by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Office of Corporate Counsel, putting UTMB’s disaster reimbursement claim and recovery efforts at risk.

Understanding the Mission

Ultimately, the $127.4 million disaster reimbursement claim UTMB submitted to FEMA was at risk of being denied or significantly reduced. The University needed expert assistance to ensure regulatory compliance and navigate the complexities of its post-hurricane reimbursement claim.

The Hagerty Advantage

Hagerty mobilized a team of accountants with extensive FEMA Public Assistance (PA) experience to conduct a thorough financial and eligibility review. To support UTMB’s claim and ensure full reimbursement of all eligible, reasonable costs, the team meticulously reviewed 170 Category B (Cat B) Project Worksheets, along with 3,300 invoices and expenses related to overtime, travel, supplies, and materials.

Achieving Results

As a result of Hagerty’s support, UTMB’s claim successfully passed a state audit and has not been subject to further review by the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG). Hagerty’s analysis determined that 87 percent—equating to $111 million—of UTMB’s $127.4 million disaster claim was eligible for reimbursement.