Consumer Advisory: Division of Insurance Asks Insurers to Step Up to Help Policyholders Affected by Flooding
Division of Insurance seeks comment on emergency regulations to help victims of flooding on key issues
DENVER - The Colorado Division of Insurance requests comments on proposed regulatory guidance to support Coloradans through the floods impacting the State. The proposed emergency regulations would:
- Prohibit insurers from canceling or non-renewing a property insurance policy because the homeowner cannot return due to problems caused by flooding, such as inaccessible roads, city or county rules, or a lack of functional utilities.
- Prohibit insurers from taking any adverse action on policyholders if the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) requires coverage denial to provide financial assistance.
- Restrict insurers ability to consider damage to be caused by the 2026 floods only if it was directly caused by the floods.
- Require that insurers cover personal property temporarily removed from the insured premises because of the floods at the same amount until the home is re-occupied.
- Require that insurers expedite covered auto claims.
The Division is also asking health insurers to support their customers with increased flexibility by:
- Creating a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for people impacted by the floods.
- Waiving any prior authorization requirements for durable medical equipment and prescription drug refills.
- Providing at least one early medication refill.
“All of us at the Division of Insurance express our sympathies to those impacted by catastrophic flooding in Southwest Colorado. We know that your homes, vehicles, and property are at top of mind after a natural disaster, and we are requiring insurance companies to step up. Please know you are not alone. Our consumer services team is here to answer your questions and help you through the claims process,” said Colorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway.
Other Insurance Matters Coloradans Impacted by Flooding Should Know
- A basic homeowners insurance policy does not include protection from flood damage.
- If you have flood insurance through the NFIP, visit floodsmart.gov to begin the claim process. If you have flood insurance with a private insurer, contact them to initiate the claim.
- Comprehensive coverage purchased on your automobile(s) does cover flood damage.
To view the emergency regulations, visit DOI’s webpage. To submit a comment on the proposed emergency regulations, please email DORA_Ins_RulesandRecords@state.co.us by Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
If you have questions or concerns about your coverage, please do not hesitate to reach out to DOI’s Consumer Services team - 303-894-7490 / DORA_Insurance@state.co.us / doi.colorado.gov (click on “File a Complaint”).
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