Flood Insurance Proof of Loss: The 60-Day Deadline NYC Homeowners Miss

Q: What Should I Send With It?

- Photos and video of the damage and the water line - A room-by-room list of damaged items - Repair and cleanup estimates - Receipts for emergency work, supplies and replacements Use our checklist: What to Photograph for a Flood Insurance Claim.

Vanesa Levine

1 day ago

2 min read

If you have a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy, you must send your insurance company a signed, sworn proof of loss within 60 days of the date of the flood. Missing it is one of the most common reasons flood claims get denied, and the deadline is strictly enforced.

What Is a Proof of Loss?

A proof of loss is your sworn statement of what was damaged and how much you are claiming. It is the document that backs up your claim. Without it, the claim cannot be paid.

When Is It Due?

Within 60 days of the date of loss, unless FEMA issues a written extension. FEMA sometimes extends the deadline after major disasters, but a field adjuster cannot extend it for you. If you cannot confirm an extension on floodsmart.gov, treat 60 days as your deadline.

Does the Adjuster File It for Me?

The insurance adjuster may prepare a proof of loss form, but it is still your responsibility to make sure it is complete, accurate and sent on time.

What If I Disagree With the Adjuster's Number?

Submit your own proof of loss with your own numbers and documents within the 60 days. If more damage shows up later, you can file an amended or supplemental claim. If your claim is denied, an NFIP appeal generally must be filed within 60 days of the denial letter.

What Should I Send With It?

Photos and video of the damage and the water line
A room-by-room list of damaged items
Repair and cleanup estimates
Receipts for emergency work, supplies and replacements

Use our checklist: What to Photograph for a Flood Insurance Claim.

Can a Public Adjuster Help With the Proof of Loss?

Yes. A licensed public adjuster works for you, documents the loss, prepares the claim and deals with the insurance company. See How Much Does a Public Adjuster Charge in New York?

Get Help Before the Deadline

Call Flood Cleanup NYC at 212-600-9290 or visit our Insurance Claims page.

Public adjusting services are provided by a New York licensed public adjuster under a separate written contract. You do not have to use our cleanup services to hire the public adjuster, and you do not have to hire the public adjuster to use our cleanup services.