Bill > HB153

This bill establishes new regulations for how insurance companies can use aerial images (photographs taken from above) when deciding not to renew residential property insurance policies. The law requires insurers to provide a detailed written notice at least 61 days before policy expiration if they plan to non-renew based on aerial image findings, which must include date-stamped images showing specific property defects. Insurers must also establish a clear process for homeowners to challenge or correct the identified issues, including providing documentation of repairs and offering an appeals mechanism. The insurer must give the homeowner at least 60 days to remedy any defects and must consider any submitted documentation before finalizing the non-renewal. The bill applies to various types of insurers, including county mutual, Lloyd's plan, reciprocal, and farm mutual insurance companies. If a homeowner successfully addresses the identified issues, the insurer must offer a renewal policy. The law does not prevent insurers from non-renewing policies for other valid reasons, and it will apply to insurance policies delivered, issued, or renewed on or after April 1, 2026. The legislation aims to provide homeowners with more transparency and opportunity to address property concerns before losing insurance coverage.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=892&Bill=HB153