We want to keep you informed about how the federal government shutdown impacts your flood insurance coverage.
Because the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is administered by FEMA, the program is currently unable to issue new policies, process renewals, or make endorsements during the shutdown period. Unfortunately, this means that:
- No new NFIP policies can be written.
- No renewals can be processed until operations resume.
- No changes or endorsements can be completed.
If your NFIP policy is scheduled to renew soon, please rest assured that we are tracking your policy carefully. We encourage you to confirm your intent to renew by emailing us at pcservice@denysins.com or calling us at 386-308-3268. This helps us act quickly once NFIP operations restart.
We understand how important flood coverage is in Florida, and our team is here to support you through this temporary disruption.
Thank you for your patience and trust.
Please Note: Berlin & Denys Insurance still has the opportunity to place coverage through private flood markets that are not impacted by the government shutdown.
Client FAQ
1. Can I buy a new NFIP flood insurance policy right now?
No. During the federal government shutdown, FEMA cannot issue new NFIP policies. Applications will have to wait until NFIP operations resume.
2. What happens if my NFIP policy is set to renew during the shutdown?
Your renewal cannot be processed until FEMA reopens NFIP operations. However, if you notify us of your intent to renew, we will document it and submit it as soon as FEMA allows. This helps ensure your coverage continues without issue once the program resumes.
3. Will my current NFIP coverage be canceled because of the shutdown?
No. If you already have an active policy, your coverage remains in effect until its expiration date. The shutdown only affects new business, renewals, and endorsements.
4. What about policy changes or endorsements?
Any policy change, such as updating coverage amounts or changing mortgage/lender information, must wait until NFIP operations restart.
5. Are there alternatives to NFIP during the shutdown?
Yes. Florida has private flood insurance carriers that may be able to provide coverage. Private flood insurance is not identical to NFIP, but it can meet lender requirements and provide protection. Our agency can help you explore these options.
6. My lender requires flood insurance. What should I do if my NFIP policy is affected?
We recommend notifying your lender about the NFIP shutdown and providing documentation that you intend to renew your policy once allowed. In the meantime, private flood coverage may help satisfy lender requirements. We can assist in providing alternatives.
7. How will I know when NFIP operations resume?
Our agency will monitor FEMA updates closely. As soon as NFIP is authorized to issue policies again, we will notify all impacted clients immediately.
8. Should I take any action right now?
- If you have a renewal coming up: Contact us to confirm your intent to renew.
- If you need new coverage: Ask us about private flood insurance alternatives.
- Otherwise: No action is needed until NFIP resumes.
NFIP Claims During a Government Shutdown
1. Will NFIP still pay flood claims during the shutdown?
Yes. Existing NFIP policies remain in force until their expiration date, and claims for covered flood losses will still be processed and paid. Claims operations are considered “essential services” and continue even while new policies, renewals, and endorsements are paused.
2. What if I have a flood loss during the shutdown?
- You should file the claim as normal through your insurance agent or directly with NFIP.
- A FEMA/NFIP claims adjuster will still be assigned to handle your loss.
- Claim payments will be processed as usual, though in some shutdowns, minor delays may occur.
3. Are there delays in claims handling because of the shutdown?
In most cases, claims staff continue working, since flood claims fall under FEMA’s disaster response duties. However, there could be administrative slowdowns if certain support staff are furloughed. It’s best to set client expectations that while claims will be paid, processing may take slightly longer.
4. What if my policy expired and I have a loss during the shutdown?
If your NFIP policy expired before the shutdown and was not renewed, no coverage applies for a loss. Unfortunately, coverage cannot be backdated once NFIP operations resume.
5. Can private flood insurance handle claims right now?
Yes. Private flood carriers operate independently of NFIP and are not affected by the shutdown. Claims with those carriers proceed without federal disruption.