Bill > H1242

This bill establishes new regulations for insurance companies in Massachusetts when using aerial images to make coverage decisions. Specifically, if an insurer plans to non-renew a homeowner's insurance policy based on aerial imagery, they must provide date-stamped photos taken within the past 12 months that clearly show the specific conditions violating the insurer's underwriting guidelines. The bill requires insurers to include in the non-renewal notice detailed information about what steps the property owner can take to potentially reverse the decision. Insurers must also create a formal process for property owners to submit documentation proving they have addressed the identified issues, establish a point of contact for appeals, and transparently disclose the factors used in their risk assessment. The legislation mandates that property owners must be given at least 60 days to remedy any defects identified in the aerial images, and if the owner successfully addresses these issues, the insurer must offer to renew the policy. The Massachusetts insurance commissioner is tasked with developing specific rules to implement these requirements, and the law will go into effect 180 days after its passage, providing insurers time to adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1242