FEMA Announces Proof of Loss Waiver for Hurricane Harvey Victims
To expedite processing of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims for Hurricane Harvey, the NFIP is waiving the requirement for a policyholder to submit an initial Proof of Loss (POL) document.
Here’s how the expedited process will work:
- After a policyholder files a claim, a time is set up for the adjuster to inspect the flood damaged property. The adjuster will document the damage and submit a report to the policyholder’s insurance company.
- If additional damage is discovered or a policyholder does not agree with the payment amount, a policyholder can seek additional payment if the policy’s coverage limits have not been met. A POL will be required to seek supplement payment on the claim. If payment is issued based upon the adjuster’s initial report and an additional proof of loss is not submitted by the policyholder, the insurer will close the file.
If a policyholder decides to request an additional payment, which must be done by completing a POL, the policyholder will have one year from the date of filing the initial claim, to submit the request it to the insurance company. FEMA has informed all of its NFIP insurance partners about this process and how it will work. NFIP policyholders are encouraged to work closely with an adjuster on this expedited process.
NFIP policyholders are encouraged to contact their insurance company and report a flood claim as soon as possible. If someone is unsure if he/she has flood insurance with the National Flood Insurance Program; does not know how to contact his/her agent or company; or has an NFIP Direct policy, call 1-800-621-3362, select option 2, and speak with the NFIP call center. The TTY number is TTY 1-800-462-7585.
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA’s Intergovernmental Affairs Division at (202) 646-3444 or at FEMA-IGA@fema.dhs.gov.