On February 19, 2025, the New Hampshire Insurance Department issued Bulletin INS 25-016-AB to provide clarity on the use of aerial imagery as an underwriting tool.

The bulletin states that a property insurer has the right to refuse coverage if clear evidence of property degradation or damage exists but should not decline coverage based solely on cosmetic issues that do not affect the structural integrity of the property. If aerial imagery does not unequivocally demonstrate property degradation or damage warranting a refusal to write or renew policies, insurers must conduct a follow-up physical inspection to validate any aerial data.

Please see Bulletin INS 25-016-AB for more information. For any questions regarding the bulletin, please contact PropertyCasualty@ins.nh.gov.