On April 30, 2025, the Massachusetts Division of Insurance (DOI) released Bulletin 2025-02 to all property and casualty insurers in the state regarding the use of aerial imagery as an underwriting tool.
The DOI clarifies that insurers may use aerial imagery technology, but they are expected to ensure the clarity and accuracy of the images. Cosmetic damage that does not fundamentally reflect the structural quality of the property or its propensity for loss should not be the sole basis for a nonrenewal, cancellation, or declination of a policy. If the aerial imagery does not provide clear evidence of damage or degradation, insurers are expected to conduct additional underwriting reviews, possibly including physical inspections.
Please see Bulletin 2025-02 for more information. For any questions regarding the bulletin, please contact the Division of Insurance at masspc@mass.gov.