LDI: Proof of Loss Deadlines for Hurricane Claims in Louisiana Extended

Property insurance policyholders Louisiana policyholders who need to file hurricane damage claims have an more time than usual to do so under Louisiana law, according to the Louisiana Department of Insurance.

In a media release, the LDI said under Louisiana law, when a catastrophic event occurs and civil officials declare a state of disaster or emergency pursuant to law, owners of property within the declaration area have at least 180 days from the date of the event to submit a proof of loss with their insurer.

Approximate 2020 hurricane proof of loss filing deadlines are as follows:

“Although I encourage policyholders to file their claims with their insurers as soon as possible to begin the recovery process, I know the level of damage caused by the 2020 hurricanes makes it very difficult for people to gather all of the information and documentation they need to file a detailed proof of loss to support their claim,” Commissioner of Insurance Jim Donelon said in the release.

Those needing to file a claim should review their policy and contact their agent for guidance on the exact proof of loss deadline per their policy and what is required in filing their proof of loss.

The same Louisiana law extends the 180-day deadline when policyholders are denied access to their properties by civil authorities during a state of disaster or emergency.

Filing a sufficient proof of loss with an insurer can include not only filing the initial damage claim, but also documentation such as photos, contractor estimates, receipts for temporary repairs and any other documentation required by the company.

Anyone with questions or concerns about the claim filing process or how their specific claim is being handled by their insurer can contact the Louisiana Department of Insurance at 1-800-259-5300 or submit a formal complaint at ldi.la.gov/complaints.

Source: Louisiana Department of Insurance

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Profit Loss Claims Louisiana Hurricane