Government Shutdown Halts NFIP: What Florida Homeowners Need to Know About Flood Insurance Options

On October 1st, Congress failed to pass a Continuing Resolution (CR), causing a lapse in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and triggering a government shutdown. This lapse impacts the ability to issue new or renewal NFIP flood policies, leaving thousands of homeowners, condo owners, and business owners across Florida without access to the federal program.

At North Broward Insurance Solutions, we want our clients to understand exactly what this means and how you can still stay protected.

What This NFIP Lapse Means

When NFIP authorization expires:

• No new policies or renewals can be issued until reauthorization occurs.

• Claims on existing NFIP policies are still valid—filing, adjustment, and payment of claims will continue uninterrupted.

• Policies submitted and paid before the lapse may still be processed under NFIP waiting period rules.

Wright Flood, one of our NFIP carriers, has reminded agents that during this lapse, they can still:

• Accept renewal payments for invoices issued prior to the lapse (within grace period).

• Process endorsements and cancellations on existing policies.

• Finalize new business if applications were submitted and paid before October 1st.

Private Flood Insurance: A Reliable Alternative in Florida

The good news? While the federal government is stalled, private insurers remain fully operational. North Broward Insurance Solutions represents 21 private flood insurance carriers across Florida, giving homeowners and businesses flexible, competitive, and immediate coverage options that don’t depend on Washington gridlock.

Benefits of Private Flood Insurance:

• Immediate policy issuance without federal shutdown interruptions.

• Coverage tailored to your property’s risk profile.

• Competitive rates for coastal and inland Florida properties.

• Options for higher coverage limits than NFIP’s $250,000 cap.

Why You Should Act Now

Florida is no stranger to flood risk, storm surge, and hurricane-driven rainfall. With NFIP unavailable during this shutdown, many Floridians could find themselves uninsured if they wait. Private flood insurance provides the long-term security and stability you need—especially as peak hurricane season continues.

Get a Flood Insurance Quote Today

At North Broward Insurance Solutions, we specialize in protecting Florida homeowners, condo associations, and businesses from the devastating financial impact of floods. Whether you’re looking to renew coverage during this NFIP lapse or secure a new private flood policy, our experienced brokers are here to help.

📞 Call us today at 954-368-0060 to review your flood insurance options and secure reliable protection—even while NFIP is shut down.

Craig Appleman is a Licensed Independent Insurance Agent with Barefoot Insurance Brokers, bringing 12 years of experience in personal lines coverage to Florida homeowners and families. His areas of expertise include flood insurance, homeowners insurance, personal umbrella policies, and auto insurance. Craig is known for helping clients navigate complex risk exposures with clarity and confidence. You can reach him directly at [email protected] or call/text 954-637-3481 to discuss your insurance needs.