BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — FEMA has officially designated Brevard County as eligible for assistance after Hurricane Ian. Meaning homeowners, renters and business owners can now apply for federal disaster assistance.

What You Need To Know

  • The county said they've had some 700 reports of property damage due to Ian

  • More reports are expected as waters recede

  • Homeowners, renters, and business owners can now apply for federal aid

"We know there are thousands of areas across the county that have been hit by the thing, hopefully, collectively it will add up to where people can get relief," says Brevard County Spokesman Don Walker.

A day ago, we were on a boat surveying the devastating floodwaters that have taken over Loughman's Lakeside. Owner Jason Reichman was still at a loss, looking at the loss of his dream of renovating the historic property being washed away.

"We've poured so much into it in the past year," says Reichman. Several feet of water is inside and outside the restaurant after historic flooding overtook the St John's River. Water that could take weeks to recede.​ "Can't do anything until this water goes down, and we assess what we have left," Reichman tells us.

Fast forward 24 hours later, and Reichman got word from FEMA that based on damage assessments, Brevard County qualifies for individual assistance.

Homeowners, renters and business owners like him can now apply for federal aid for damages and losses from Hurricane Ian.

"It's a little surprising it happened so soon after we met, but I think it's a little overdue and very much appreciated," he says.

We showed him aerial video shot Monday, showing his lakeside property underwater. Reichman is relieved help will soon be on the way, even though he will still need to be patient.

"Hopefully some SBA loans and help us rebuild," says Reichman. "Still going to take a few months and assess the damage and see what we need to do, but this at least gives us some tools to get started."

The county leaders said they've had 700 reports of property damage due to Ian. As the waters slowly recede, even more reports will come in.

Learn how to apply for FEMA assistance here.