Can anyone recommend a good homeowner's insurer in Massachusetts? I was just dropped from Electric Insurance.

Question

I would discourage anyone from using Electric Insurance (EI). EI is a small company with a VERY LOW risk threshold. I had EI homeowners and auto insurance for over 18 years. In all that time, I had one claim filed against me for less $2,500 when my 6 lb doggie gave the lawn guy a bite. EI would not renew my homeowner’s policy and waited 45 days before it expired to tell me. Months earlier, the claims adjuster assured me my policy would not be dropped for such a small claim of this type. Don’t take a chance with EI

Answer 1

First, it is not your insurance company, ANY  insurance company would drop you for a dog bite claim.  Because, once a dog bites, the animal now has a statistically higher rate of biting again.  Next time the dog may bite a little kid in the face - that would be a HUGE lawsuit & insurance companies do not want to take that risk.  

Claims adjusters do not necessarily know underwriting rules.  Only your agent or company underwriter can tell you this.  

45 days is State law for notification of nonrenewal.  They do not have to notify you sooner.  If the agent knew about the nonrenewal sooner (they may or may have not known depending on whether the company notified them beforehand), they should have notified you but are not obligated to.  

The only way I know that a company would renew you in this situation is if you got rid of the animal - they do not have to but some companies will reconsider the nonrenewal if you got rid of the dog.  You may have a very difficult time finding other insurance if you still own the dog, or even if you own another dog.  Your agent should be telling you this & should be looking for another insurer for you.  He or she may not have any options for you & if that is the case, they need to tell you as soon as possible so that you can look elsewhere.  If I were you, I would be calling around whether or not your current agent is looking for other companies.  

One thing for sure, tell any prospective company about the loss & the details.

Since there is now limited competition in MA for auto insurance, more companies are looking to write business there as soon as they are approved by the State.  So, make many calls.

Good luck to you.

Answer 2

To find the best, most affordable insurance in Massachusetts, contact an insurance broker. A broker works with several companies and can identify the best company, rates, and coverage for you. To find a broker in your area, log on to a website like http://www.homeownerswiz.com and fill out a form requesting a free quote.