National Flood Insurance Program expired — again

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) cannot issue new policies, increase coverage on existing policies or renew policies. The U.S. Congress failed to extend the program (as well as COBRA) by the March 28 deadline and adjourned for Easter recess until April 12.

We are  hopeful that the Senate will pass a House bill that would retroactively reauthorize the program during a tentatively scheduled April 12 evening vote.

Until that time, you are encouraged to follow FEMA's recommendations and guidance, available on FEMA's Web site. Companies have been directed to pay claims for policies in force.

Besides lasting considerably longer than the early March lapse, this lapse could wreak more havoc since it stretches over the end of the month, when many mortgage closings — which sometimes hinge on flood insurance — occur.