Renewal period approaching for flood insurance policyholders affected by Helene, Milton

TALLAHASSEE — As a result of the severe damage and historic flooding in Florida caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, FEMA extended the policy renewal deadline for certain National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders to prevent a lapse in NFIP flood coverage.

These policyholders have until Dec. 10, 2024, to renew their policies. This is a significant extension from the standard 30-day renewal grace period.

Policies that terms would have ended Aug. 28, Sept. 26, Oct. 15, or Nov. 1 will now all deadline Dec. 10. Policies that would have ended Nov. 15 have a few extra days and will deadline Dec. 14.

If they have not done so, policyholders should be sure to 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.

Holders of active policies can file claims for damage received from Hurricanes Helene or Milton if the premium is paid.

Other actions to help policyholders

The NFIP has extended the proof of loss requirement for policyholders who suffered flood damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton from the standard 60 days to 120 days from the date of loss.

The NFIP also authorized its Write Your Own program. Insurance company partners and the NFIP Direct 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. This can include a contractor's estimate, bills, receipts, photographs and other related documents.

Anyone affected by Helene or Milton who has an NFIP flood insurance policy and has suffered flood damage should file their claim now. Evacuated policyholders can still start their claim and provide specifics later once local officials say it's safe to return home.

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period should contact their agent or insurance company. Those who don't have their insurance agent or company's contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance.

FEMA also encourages NFIP policyholders affected by Helene or Milton to apply for federal disaster assistance. The three ways to apply are visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or using 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.

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.