FEMA Releases Flood Insurance Advocate Annual Report

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on April 21 released the 2019 Annual Report from the Office of the Flood Insurance Advocate. The report examines and makes recommendations on policyholder and property owner concerns or frustrations with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The 2019 report focuses on five areas that may impact the rating of a policy or a policyholder's eligibility for premium discounts or refunds:

• Improper application of an elevation rating using an elevation certificate;
• Loss of flood insurance policy rating discounts following a lapse in coverage;
• Confusion regarding the Group Flood Insurance Program;
• Limited refunds being issued after a policyholder has received a "Letter of Map Amendment, Out as Shown" letter; and
• A denial of Increased Cost of Compliance funds when a permit is issued before a substantial damage letter is received by the policyholder.

The Office of the Flood Insurance Advocate (OFIA) was created by Congress to advocate for the fair treatment of policyholders and property owners under the NFIP in the mapping of flood hazards, identification of risks from flood, and implementation of measures to minimize the risk of flood. The OFIA provides education and guidance on all aspects of the NFIP, identifies trends affecting the public and makes recommendations for program improvements. For more information, contact Tamra Spielvogel at 800-368-5242 x8327. To learn more about the Office of the Flood Insurance Advocate, visit the FEMA website.