At the Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (FAPIA) Fall Conference last week, I was speaking with a public adjuster about the impeding 60-day deadline for his clients to submit their signed, sworn, proofs of loss for Hurricane Matthew flood claims. For public adjusters who have not handled many flood claims in the past, this can seem like an overwhelming process, considering the strict requirements for NFIP claims.
Where to mail the proof of loss may seem like a simple question, however it is one that should not be overlooked. The last thing you want to discover is that you met all requirements, except you sent it to the wrong location.
If your policy was issued by a Write Your Own program-participating insurance company, you will need to contact the insurance agent or carrier directly to find out the proper address for submitting your Proof of Loss.
Here is a link to where you can find toll-free phone numbers to contact the WYO companies: http://www.nfipiservice.com/Claims_TollFree/Toll-Free%20Number%20by%20WYO.pdf
If your policy was issued by FEMA through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Direct Servicing Agent, the only addresses to which your Proof of Loss must be sent is the following:
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
We recommend that you send the original proof of loss (with all supporting documentation) to the insurer and a copy of the proof of loss (with all supporting documentation) to the field adjuster retained as the independent adjuster. Send both via overnight mail and request a proof of delivery so you have confirmation it was received within 60 days from the date of loss.
As of this date, the 60-day time period to file flood proofs of loss has not been extended as it has for Hurricane Hermine claims.
A recent Bulletin issued by FEMA indicated the following adjusted dates of loss for Hurricane Matthew claims:
This means there is about one month or less remaining to submit flood proofs of loss for Florida policyholders with damage from Hurricane Matthew. Do not delay! If you have questions regarding flood proof of loss requirements, searching this blog is a good starting point and we are available to answer questions.
