Victoria Gu's homeowner insurance protection bill goes to Governor for signature

A modest aid to a growing, serious problem

The General Assembly approved legislation sponsored by Rep. Samuel A. Azzinaro and Sen. Victoria Gu to require insurers to provide customers with advance notice of nonrenewal for homeowners and residential fire insurance policies.

The legislation (2026-H 7066A, 2026-S 2011A) would require insurers to provide written notice of nonrenewal at least 60 days before the renewal date for homeowners and residential fire insurance policies, beginning July 1, 2027.

“Insurance companies are being a lot more selective about the location and the condition of the houses they insure, declining to cover homes in coastal areas or with older roofs or water heaters,” said Senator Gu (D-Dist. 38, Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingstown). “The 60 days’ advance notice will help homeowners find alternative insurance coverage and find tradespeople if they need to fix something at their house in order to continue insurance coverage.”

In recent years a number of insurers in Rhode Island have stopped providing home insurance, mirroring a national trend of higher prices and fewer options for homeowners.

The legislation now goes to the governor for his consideration.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Cathy and I had our homeowner policy cancelled TWICE last year due to increased risk from climate change. It was hard to find ANY carrier willing to replace our coverage. Having extra time to deal with such a mess is greatly appreciated  - Will Collette