Massachusetts homeowners share insurance nonrenewal frustrations
After Ben's initial report about a homeowner whose insurance refused to renew her policy and blamed the condition of her roof, several other homeowners shared similar experiences.
Athena Haddon was told by Travelers that her roof had to be replaced, even though no on-site inspection was completed. She rushed to make $30,000 in repairs.
Haddon's experience is just one example of how insurance companies are getting tougher and issuing non-renewals.
"Add our name to your list," Steve wrote in a message responding to that original story. "We live on Cape Cod and experienced the same thing regarding our 14-year-old roof."
Steve said his insurer used artificial intelligence and a subcontractor to make the demand.
"We lost insurance with Travelers for our small cottage in Windham, NH, this way," Susan said. "There was some consolation to know we are not the only ones. Misery loves company."
Another response, from a viewer named Rick, suggests one possible way to push back against the insurance company's decision.
"We also received a notice about replacing our roof or risk losing our coverage," he said. "We had a certified home inspector look at our roof and provide an assessment which we forwarded to the insurance."
It also may be a good idea to shop around. Unlike some other states, the insurance market in Massachusetts remains competitive.