Time is running out for Hurricane Ian victims to file claims

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Homeowners with damage from Hurricane Ian have a few more days to file a claim before the two-year window closes.

The storm created widespread damage across the southwest region of the state and recovery efforts are still ongoing.

According to FEMA, Hurricane Ian made landfall near Cayo Costa, Florida, Sept. 28, 2022, as a Category 4 storm.

"Two years after Hurricane Ian, federal support tops $10.2 billion for households, businesses, communities and flood insurance policy holders," FEMA officials wrote in a statement.

Craig Lipaj had to endure a long battle with his insurance company for a fair settlement to get the roof replaced on his North Port home.

The project took a year and a half to complete.

"Until you go through it, I don't think you have any idea how bad it will be," Lipaj said. "The storm, and then the battle after the storm, trying to get your house back together, and fighting insurance companies."

Lipaj had to stay patient during the early stages of filing his insurance claim.

"It took us two or three days after Ian to even get in," Lipaj said. "We would be on the phone on hold for literally hours on end, because there's thousands of people trying to get through."

Hurricane Ian was the costliest cyclone in Florida records and the third costliest in the United States, according to the National Hurricane Center.

"Going forward before you make a claim, talk to your agent," Ron Assise said. "Get their advice based on your current situation. You don't want to make a claim that's not going to be covered because it may be under your deductible. Hurricane deductibles are most times 2% of your total coverage."

All Hurricane Ian claims must be submitted by Sept. 28, 2024.