Submit Change to Structural Variable: Difference between revisions

From Gulf States Flood Help
 
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|content =
|content =
{{Box task
{{Box task
|image  = Img-proc-actions-change-coverage.png
|image  = Img-proc-change-strvar-section.png
|size    = 200px
|size    = 300px
|alt    = An image showing the "Policy Changes" menu along the right side of the page.
|caption = Scroll to the Risk Characteristics in the Policy Record.
|caption = Use the "Policy Changes" menu along the right side of the page.
|text    = <big>'''Open the [[Policy Record]] to start'''</big><br>
|text    = <big>'''Open the [[Policy Record]] to start'''</big>
Scroll down to the "Risk Characteristics" section manually. <br>
To quickly navigate to the '''Coverages and Deductibles''' section:
''There is no navigation option in the '''Policy Actions''' menu.''  
* Find the '''Policy Actions''' block on the right
* Choose '''Policy Changes'''
* From the next menu, click the '''Coverages and Deductibles''' option
Otherwise, scroll down to the "Coverages, Deductibles and Discounts" section manually.
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|file    = Img-proc-change-strvar-edit.png
|file    = Img-proc-change-strvar-edit.png
|size    = 500px
|size    = 500px
|caption = Use the Edit button (pencil icon) in the upper right of the Coverages and Deductibles section.
|caption = Use the Edit button (pencil icon) in the upper right of the '''Risk Characteristics''' section.
}}
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This will open the coverage fields for editing.
This will open all NFIP structural variable fields for editing.
{{Box task
{{Box task
|image  = Img-proc-change-coverage-fields.png
|image  = Img-proc-change-strvar-fields.png
|size    = 400px
|size    = 250px
|caption = Make adjustments to the coverage and deductibles as appropriate.
|caption = The NFIP Structural Variables fields will all be open for editing.
|text    =  
|text    =  
<big>'''Make Changes to Coverage and Deductibles'''</big><br>
<big>'''Make Adjustments to Structural Variables'''</big><br>
Changes to coverage must follow NFIP guidelines for [[Effective Date]] calculation and documentation.<br>
These fields describe the physical details of the building, which can be changed over time due to reconstruction or disrepair.  
Refer to the boxes below to confirm proper calculation and required documents.
* Building characteristics should be accurately represented on an NFIP policy.
}}
* They can be corrected if they are not.
<big>'''Coverage Change Rules'''</big><br>
* The collapsed table below shows a sortable list of all fields.
{{collapsible-details
|number = 21
|title = Coverage Increase
|content =
'''Coverage increases have a standard 30-day [[Waiting Period]] applied, unless they qualify for an exception.'''
{{Docs-req|1=[[Premium Payment]]}}
{{Attention|'''[[NFIP Effective Date Calculation]]''' rules apply to coverage increases that can alter the requested effective date.}}
}}
{{collapsible-details
|number = 22
|title = Coverage Decrease
|content =
'''Coverage decreases have no [[Waiting Period]].'''
When coverage is reduced to zero, the corresponding deductible must be set to zero.
 
Coverage decreases can be made on '''upcoming renewals''' without the requirements needed for policy changes. [https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_nfip_flood-insurance-manual_042024.pdf#page=148]
 
{{Docs-req|1='''Building coverage''': proof the building is over-insured, either through error or removal. [https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_nfip_flood-insurance-manual_042024.pdf#page=145] }}
{{Docs-req|1='''Duplicate RCBAP coverage''': copy of the RCBAP declarations page. }}
{{Docs-req|1='''Contents coverage''': proof the property was sold or removed. [https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_nfip_flood-insurance-manual_042024.pdf#page=145] }}
{{Docs-req|1='''Policyholder's signature''' [https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_nfip_flood-insurance-manual_042024.pdf#page=141] }}
{{Attention|1=If due to error, the decrease is effective at inception. <br>If due to damage or removal, it is effective '''the day after''' the event date. [https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_nfip_flood-insurance-manual_042024.pdf#page=145] <br>If due to duplicate RCBAP building coverage, it is effective the date the RCBAP coverage started. [https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_nfip_flood-insurance-manual_042024.pdf#page=146]}}
}}
{{collapsible-details
|number = 23
|title = Deductible Increase
|content =
When coverage is increased from zero, any deductible may be chosen; however, deductible decreases have a 30-day waiting period.
{{Attention|Deductible increases have no '''[[Waiting Period]]'''.}}
}}
{{collapsible-details
|number = 24
|title = Deductible Decrease
|content =
'''Deductible decreases have a standard 30-day [[Waiting Period]] applied, unless they qualify for an exception.'''
{{Docs-req|1=A '''lender's letter''' that requires a lower deductible [https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_nfip_flood-insurance-manual_042024.pdf#page=147] }}
{{Docs-req|1=[[Premium Payment]] }}
{{Attention|'''[[NFIP Effective Date Calculation]]''' rules apply to coverage increases that can alter the requested effective date.}}
}}
{{collapsible-details
|number = 25
|title = Coverage Combinations
|content =
Use the table below to identify when coverage can be combined. <br>
In general, increases and decreases are typically done in separate transactions with separate payments, but they can be combined.
<table class="wikitable">
<tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td class="sol-head">Coverage Increase</td><td class="sol-head">Coverage Decrease</td></tr>
<tr><td class="sol-head">Deductible Increase</td><td class="sol-yellow">'''30-day Wait + No Wait'''<br>Separate or Combined</td><td class="sol-yellow">'''No Wait (both)'''<br>Separate or Combined<br>Cannot backdate deductibles</td></tr>
<tr><td class="sol-head">Deductible Decrease</td><td class="sol-green">'''30-day Wait (both)'''<br>Combined</td><td class="sol-red">'''No Wait + 30-day Wait'''<br>Separate Only</td></tr>
</table>
* '''Coverage Increase + Deductible Increase''': The deductible increase can coincide with the coverage increase, or it can be done separately
* '''Coverage Increase + Deductible Decrease''': The deductible decrease can coincide with the coverage increase (same rules apply)
* '''Coverage Decrease + Deductible Increase''': The deductible increase can coincide with a mid-term coverage decrease (no waiting period), or it can be done separately. Deductible increases cannot be backdated.
* '''Coverage Decrease + Deductible Decrease''': These must be done separately, as the rules are too restrictive to combine.
{{box-summ
|title = Example: Coverage Decrease & Deductible Decrease
|text = A coverage decrease can only happen due to over-insurance, which is effective in the middle of the term (physical change) or at the inception (error). ''So today or a '''previous date'''.'' <br>A deductible decrease requires a 30-day wait, unless an exception is applied. ''So today or '''future date'''.''
}}
}}
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{{Docs-req|'''Changes:''' proof of a change to the building, such as a photograph.}}
{{Docs-req|'''Corrections:''' an agent statement that the item was incorrect on the original application.}}
{{attention|'''Changes:''' the effective date is '''the date the change occurred''' (the event date). <br>'''Corrections:''' the effective date is '''the policy inception date'''.}}
{{table-structural-variables}}
<div style="margin-top:10px;">'''Once all details are entered, click the "Save" button (move to Step 3 below).'''</div>
<div style="margin-top:10px;">'''Once all details are entered, click the "Save" button (move to Step 3 below).'''</div>
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|file    = Img-proc-change-insured-eff-date.png
|file    = Img-proc-change-insured-eff-date.png
|size    = 700px
|size    = 700px
|caption = Choose the Waiting Period and select the appropriate Policy Change Effective Date.
|caption = Choose "None" for the Waiting Period and select the appropriate Policy Change Effective Date.
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Scroll to the top of the page to enter the effective date.  
Scroll to the top of the page to enter the effective date.  
* Choose the [[Waiting Periods|Waiting Period]] based on the scenarios identified in Section 2.
* Choose "None" from the [[Waiting Periods|Waiting Period]] dropdown box.
* Calculate and enter the appropriate date.
* Determine and enter the appropriate date based on whether this is changing a building detail or correcting it.
'''''The Coverage Change cannot be completed without choosing an effective date.'''''
'''''The Coverage Change cannot be completed without choosing an effective date.'''''


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|title = 4. Review and Submit
|title = 4. Review and Submit
|content = Review the changes for accuracy and completeness before finalizing.<br>
|content = Review the changes for accuracy and completeness before finalizing.<br>
Once the effective date is entered, the pro-rated premium amount will be displayed.
Once the effective date is entered, a pro-rated premium amount might be displayed.
* The "Abort" button will exit the process without saving any details.
* The "Abort" button will exit the process without saving any details.
* The "Submit" button will create the policy change form and mark the policy with "'''Pending Change'''" and "'''Pending Payment'''" flags.
* The "Submit" button will create the policy change form and mark the policy with a "'''Pending Change'''" (and "'''Pending Payment'''") flag.
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{{clear}}
{{clear}}
The system will not process the change immediately.  
The system will not process the change immediately. <br>
'''Policy changes to NFIP Structural Variables require underwriter review.'''


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|file    = Img-proc-change-coverage-pending-message.png
|file    = Img-proc-change-coverage-pending-message.png
|size    = 700px
|size    = 700px
|caption = The Policy Record will show Pending Payment and Pending Change flags.
|caption = The Policy Record will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.
}}
}}
{{clear}}
{{clear}}
The Policy Record will show Pending Payment and Pending Change flags.
The Policy Record will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.
{{Img-proc-free
{{Img-proc-free
|style  = padding-top: 1em
|style  = padding-top: 1em
|file    = Img-proc-change-coverage-pending-flag.png
|file    = Img-proc-change-coverage-pending-flag.png
|size    = 700px
|size    = 700px
|caption = The policy in the Agency Workspace will show Pending Payment and Pending Change flags.
|caption = The policy in the Agency Workspace will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.
}}
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{{clear}}
{{clear}}
The policy in the Agency Workspace will show Pending Payment and Pending Change flags.
The policy in the Agency Workspace will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.
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{{Img-proc-free
|style  = padding-top: 1em
|style  = padding-top: 1em
|file    = Img-proc-change-coverage-payment-agent.png
|file    = Img-proc-change-coverage-payment-agent.png
|size    = 700px
|size    = 700px
|caption = The agent can submit a payment on the '''Billing and Payment''' page.
|caption = If necessary, the agent can submit a payment on the '''Billing and Payment''' page.
}}
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{{clear}}
{{clear}}
The agent can '''[[Premium Payment|submit a payment]]''' on the '''Billing and Payment''' page.
If necessary, the agent can '''[[Premium Payment|submit a payment]]''' on the '''Billing and Payment''' page.
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Latest revision as of 08:28, 12 March 2025

This Equinox Procedure is for Agents. Find a complete list here.

This procedure explains how agents can submit requests to change or correct the building details on an NFIP policy. Most structural variables determine policy rating, so premium may be impacted. Supporting documentation may be required.
Policy Changes require specific actions to meet federal guidelines

Procedural Steps

1. Access Policy Record

A large clock tower and other buildings line a great river.
Scroll to the Risk Characteristics in the Policy Record.
Open the Policy Record to start

Scroll down to the "Risk Characteristics" section manually.

There is no navigation option in the Policy Actions menu.

2. Edit Risk Characteristics

Use the Edit button (pencil icon) in the upper right of the Risk Characteristics section.
Use the Edit button (pencil icon) in the upper right of the Risk Characteristics section.

This will open all NFIP structural variable fields for editing.

A large clock tower and other buildings line a great river.
The NFIP Structural Variables fields will all be open for editing.
Make Adjustments to Structural Variables

These fields describe the physical details of the building, which can be changed over time due to reconstruction or disrepair.

  • Building characteristics should be accurately represented on an NFIP policy.
  • They can be corrected if they are not.
  • The collapsed table below shows a sortable list of all fields.

Required Documentation: Changes: proof of a change to the building, such as a photograph.

Required Documentation: Corrections: an agent statement that the item was incorrect on the original application.

Changes: the effective date is the date the change occurred (the event date).
Corrections: the effective date is the policy inception date.
Structural Variable FIM Details
Occupancy FIM The building's intended use chosen from one of nine options. Determines the NFIP Policy Form and maximum coverage limits.
Building Description FIM Used to specify more detail about the building's intended use or to differentiate it from other buildings at the same location.
Primary Residence FIM Where the insured, their spouse, or a beneficiary of an insured trust resides more than 50% of the year. Determines the HFIAA surcharge amount.
Foundation Type FIM The portion of the building that supports all other structural components, chosen from six different types.
Foundation Description FIM Additional defining characteristics about the foundation
Number of Floors FIM The number of living floors above the foundation. Enclosures, crawlspaces, and basements are not considered a floor.
Number of Units FIM The number of units in a multi-unit building, including residential and non-residential units.
Floor of Unit FIM (Unit occupancy only) The floor of the building where the unit is located, even if only a single story building.
Building Over Water FIM Describes whether the building is either partially, fully, or not over water.
Detached Structures FIM Identifies the number of detached structures, not including the main building
Number of Elevators FIM The total number of elevators in the building. Does not include dumbwaiters or stair lifts.
Once all details are entered, click the "Save" button (move to Step 3 below).

3. Choose Effective Date

Choose "None" for the Waiting Period and select the appropriate Policy Change Effective Date.

Scroll to the top of the page to enter the effective date.

  • Choose "None" from the Waiting Period dropdown box.
  • Determine and enter the appropriate date based on whether this is changing a building detail or correcting it.
The Coverage Change cannot be completed without choosing an effective date.

4. Review and Submit

Review the changes for accuracy and completeness before finalizing.

Once the effective date is entered, a pro-rated premium amount might be displayed.

  • The "Abort" button will exit the process without saving any details.
  • The "Submit" button will create the policy change form and mark the policy with a "Pending Change" (and "Pending Payment") flag.
The pro-rated premium amount will be displayed as part of the coverage change.

The system will not process the change immediately.
Policy changes to NFIP Structural Variables require underwriter review.

The Policy Record will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.

The Policy Record will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.

The policy in the Agency Workspace will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.

The policy in the Agency Workspace will show a Pending Payment (and perhaps a Pending Change) flag.

If necessary, the agent can submit a payment on the Billing and Payment page.
If necessary, the agent can submit a payment on the Billing and Payment page.

This page contains details about NFIP Policy Changes.
Find more NFIP information in the How To Endorse section of the Flood Insurance Manual.