The Ohio Department of Commerce is scheduling free building, electrical, and plumbing inspections for residents and businesses located in the flood region of southern Ohio. A toll-free hotline has been established to assist affected property owners who wish to schedule an inspection.

"Extreme caution should be used before anyone attempts to re-enter a flood-damaged structure or turn utilities and heating systems back on," said Donna Owens, director of the Ohio Department of Commerce. "We will continue to provide inspections until we feel that everyone that needs our help has been properly assisted."

Resident and business owners who wish to schedule inspections should immediately contact the Ohio Department of Commerce at 1-800-523-3581. This toll-free line is open between 8 AM and 5 PM daily. Persons in Hamilton and Clermont counties should contact their local building permit office directly.

Teams of inspectors are currently being dispatched in the flood region based on requests. Residents and business owners are encouraged to call the Commerce hotline as soon as possible in order to ensure timely inspections.

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