FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 30, 2015

FEMA Deadline Approaching for Louisiana NFIP Policyholders Impacted by Spring Flooding

As state and local officials monitor the threat of river flooding throughout the state, Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is reminding National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders in Louisiana of an approaching deadline regarding spring flooding. Earlier this year Commissioner Donelon requested and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) subsequently authorized a 180-day extension for homeowners to file a Proof of Loss form. The filing deadline to claim damages is normally within 60 days of a flood loss.

The extension applies to Louisiana policyholders who submit claims related to rains beginning on May 16, 2015 through June 16, 2015. For example, an NFIP policyholder who suffered a loss on May 16, 2015 would normally have until July 15, 2015 to submit a Proof of Loss form. With the extension, the policyholder must now submit the Proof of Loss form by January 16, 2016. The form substantiates the insurance claim and is required before the NFIP will make payment. With this extension an NFIP policyholder now has a total of 240 days after the date of loss to provide a completed Proof of Loss form.

As a reminder regarding the current threat of flooding, flood damage resulting from heavy rains or storm surge is excluded under almost all standard homeowners policies. Flood coverage can be obtained from the NFIP, but it must be obtained before a flood event and typically there is a 30-day waiting period before a flood insurance policy becomes effective.

Those needing to file a claim with the NFIP are urged to contact their agent or call the NFIP Claims Call Center at 1-800-621-3362.

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state’s insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance. As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.