Some homeowners filing claims through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are discovering that their insurance payouts may fall short of covering all necessary repairs.

Andrew Knox of Altieri Insurance Consultants explains that NFIP adjusters often use software to calculate damage repair costs. However, this software sometimes fails to align with industry standards, potentially resulting in lower-than-expected estimates.

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“These estimates may occasionally be sufficient, but often, as many are finding out, the money isn’t enough to complete the necessary repairs,” Knox said.

When contractors provide higher repair estimates than what NFIP covers, homeowners can face tough choices: either pay the difference out of pocket or challenge the insurance company to adjust the payout.

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To bridge this gap, some homeowners are hiring public adjusters—independent professionals who assess damage, create accurate repair estimates, and negotiate with FEMA, contractors, and insurance companies.

“As a policyholder, the burden of proof is on you to demonstrate your loss to the insurance company,” Knox noted. “You must show them why the initial estimate was insufficient, highlight any missed items, and justify higher market repair costs.”

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Public adjusters are currently in high demand across Florida, with some operating on waitlists. Despite the delays, Knox emphasizes that enlisting an adjuster and exercising patience can save homeowners significant sums in the long run.

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(Image credit: Max Chesnes/Tampa Bay Times)