FEMA extends renewal period for flood insurance
FEMA reported that while renewal dates have passed for some National Flood Insurance Program policyholders in Florida who were affected by Hurricane Milton, these policyholders may be able to take steps that will renew their policy and receive coverage for flood damage.
Certain NFIP policyholders in Florida affected by Milton now have additional time to renew their policies without a lapse in coverage. These policyholders now have until Dec. 10 to renew their policies. It is a significant extension from the standard 30-day renewal grace period.
“I’m sensitive to the fact that our policyholders are dealing with many obstacles during this period of extensive recovery in the wake of Hurricane Milton,” interim NFIP Senior Executive Jeff Jackson said. “Extending the grace period for policy renewals is one way to show our customer that we care about what they’re going through.”
Policyholders should ask their insurance agent or company about advance claims payments to help start their recovery. Advance payments may be available of up to $20,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster.
FEMA previously announced an extended grace period for policyholders in seven states affected by Hurricane Helene, including Florida. Due to Milton, the grace period will be extended as follows:
– If the policy term ended on Aug. 28, the grace period would have ended on Sept. 26, but it now runs until Dec. 10.
– If the policy term ended on Sept. 26, the grace period would have ended on Oct. 25, but it now runs until Dec. 10.
– If the policy term ended on Oct. 15, the grace period would end on Nov. 13, but it now runs until Dec. 10.
– If the policy term ends on Nov. 1, the grace period would end on Nov. 30, but it now runs until Dec. 10.
– If the policy term ends on Nov. 15, the grace period end on Dec. 14, but it now runs until Dec. 14.
NFIP policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period should contact their agent or insurance company. Those who do not have their insurance agent or company’s contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance.
OTHER ACTIONS TO HELP POLICYHOLDERS
The NFIP has extended the proof of loss requirement for policyholders who suffered flood damage from Milton from the standard 60 days to 120 days from the date of loss.
The NFIP also authorized its Write Your Own insurance company partners and the NFIP Direct to pay claims based on the adjuster’s report without requiring policyholders to sign a proof of loss. When a policyholder seeks additional payment for any reason or disagrees with the adjuster report, they may still submit a signed proof of loss to the insurer along with supporting documentation. It can include a contractor’s estimate, bills, receipts, photographs and other related documents.
Anyone affected by Milton who has an NFIP flood insurance policy and has suffered flood damage should begin filing their claim now. Evacuated policyholders can still start their claim and provide specifics later once local officials say it is safe to return home.
FEMA also encourages NFIP policyholders affected by Milton to apply for federal disaster assistance. To apply, visit disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA App. Survivors may receive funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. For more information, visit floodsmart.gov.