Hurricane Hermine caused wide-spread flooding throughout Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. For insureds with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (“NFIP”) understanding the Proof of Loss requirement is imperative.
A Proof of Loss is an insured’s statement of the money being requested to repair the flood damage. The NFIP requires that a complete Proof of Loss be submitted within 60 days after the date of loss.
A few important notes about the NFIP Proof of Loss:
- Form: You must use the NFIP Proof of Loss form. You can find the FEMA form here.
- Complete: I commonly see policyholder representatives write “partial” on the top of a proof of loss. Don’t do it! Fill in every line on the proof of loss form and ensure the numbers are as accurate and complete as reasonably possible.
- Supporting Documentation: Submit estimates, invoices, proposals, photographs, cancelled checks, receipts, etc., to support the claimed amount.
- Timing: The 60-day deadline is FIRM. Unless the Administrator for FEMA extends this 60-day deadline in writing in a published bulletin you should ensure that the proof of loss is received within 60-days of the flooding event. (Not postmarked, received!)
- Mailing: If the flood policy was issued by a Write Your Own (“WYO”) program then contact the insurance agent or carrier directly to locate the correct address for submitting the Proof of Loss. If the flood policy was issued directly by FEMA through the NFIP Direct Servicing Agent, then send to:
Regular Mail:
NFIP Direct Servicing Agent
P.O. Box 2966
Shawnee Mission, KS 66201-1366
Overnight Mail:
NFIP Direct Servicing Agent
7701 College Blvd.
Overland Park, KS 66210
If you have any questions about completing your Proof of Loss form please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to answer your questions.