The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced this week that the deadline for filing the proof of loss for Hurricane Isaac claims has been extended an additional 30 days.

The National Flood Insurance Program Standard Flood Insurance Policy normally requires a policyholder to forward insurers a complete, signed and sworn-to proof of loss statement within 60 days after the date of loss, but because policyholders have encountered difficulties meeting this timeline, FEMA has provided an extension of the time limit. The new deadline to submit the signed proof of loss to the insurer is now Nov. 23.

According to FEMA, this extension applies to all claims for flood damage to NFIP-insured buildings and insured contents in the states of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana occurring between Aug. 25, 2012 and Sept. 11, 2012. This limited waiver applies to SFIPs issued directly by FEMA or by private insurance companies participating in the NFIP’s Write Your Own Program.

We anticipate that this additional extension of 30 days will enable affected policyholders in the parish to present their claims. FEMA will continue to monitor claim activity to determine whether further extensions may be warranted.

A Hurricane Isaac Flood Insurance Call Center has been set up by FEMA at 1-866-331-1679 for use by storm survivors who have general flood insurance questions or concerns. The toll-free number is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Residents with questions may also want to visit www.floodsmart.gov for possible answers.

We are grateful that FEMA extended the deadline to allow our residents to file a claim, but residents are reminded that additional extensions may not be granted. We will continue to work with the NFIP to ensure our residents are treated fairly and questions and concerns are addressed immediately.

Applicants who are not eligible for federal disaster loans or grants to repair property after Hurricane Isaac may still be eligible to receive other assistance. Hurricane Isaac survivors who sustained damages from Isaac and are uninsured or underinsured should register with FEMA as other options may be available, such as grants to help pay for rental assistance, serious disaster-related expenses or transitional sheltering assistance, which allows for a hotel or motel stay paid by FEMA for a limited period of time.

Residents who do not qualify for assistance through FEMA are asked to contact the Volunteer Reception Center, located at 1929 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace. Residents can also call the Home Repair Hotline at 985-359-0254 with questions. They are also encouraged to visit the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center to speak with representatives regarding specific and ongoing concerns.