NC| The North Carolina Department of Insurance’s Bulletin 25-B-09 emphasizes the need for careful use of aerial imagery in property insurance underwriting and claims, as images can sometimes be inaccurate or outdated, leading to inappropriate nonrenewal actions. The Department urges insurers to ensure both accuracy and fairness in their procedures, requesting that aerial images not be the sole basis for decisions and that property owners have opportunities to review and respond to such evidence. Insurers must implement strong safeguards as improper reliance on aerial images can generate consumer complaints and regulatory action.
- Aerial images should be recent, accurate, and not the sole basis for underwriting or claims decisions if their clarity or relevance is questionable.
- Insurers are encouraged to notify insureds, provide copies of images used, and offer policyholders the opportunity to contest or update information before taking nonrenewal or cancellation actions.
- Insurers must review and update their procedures to ensure compliance with these guidelines, as improper use of aerial imagery may lead to regulatory scrutiny or action.