The Ohio Department of Commerce is continuing to schedule free building, electrical, and plumbing inspections for residents and businesses located in the flood regions of Ohio. The hours for the toll-free hotline established to assist affected property owners needing inspections have changed. The new hours, in effect starting Friday are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

"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 1-800-718-8622. This toll-free line is open between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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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