RI| The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation issued Bulletin 2025-3 to clarify the proper use of aerial and satellite imagery by homeowners insurers in underwriting, policy nonrenewals, and claims settlements. The bulletin stresses that imagery must be clear, accurate, current (less than 15 months old), and cannot alone justify adverse actions unless there is clear evidence of significant property damage. Insurers are also encouraged to notify homeowners, provide images used for underwriting actions, and allow disputes or repairs before nonrenewal, with these standards applying to both direct and third-party uses of imagery.
Key Points
- Aerial imagery must be clear, current, and show significant material damage, not just cosmetic issues, to justify underwriting or nonrenewal actions.
- Insurers should notify homeowners, share the specific imagery involved, and allow time for response or repair before taking nonrenewal action.
- These guidelines apply to both claim settlements and third-party reports generated via aerial imagery, and failure to comply may be considered an unfair trade practice.