You might be able to address the reason your insurer cites for non-renewing your policy — but you must act quickly.
Relax, this isn’t about cancel culture. This is about a very different kind of cancellation: when your insurance company decides it no longer wants to renew your policy. What does a non-renewal mean, why does it happen and what can you do about it?
An insurance policy is a contract — you pay money, and in return, the insurer agrees to pay for covered losses. But like any agreement, it has an expiration date, and both parties must agree to continue. Sometimes, one side decides not to.
Understanding a Non-Renewal Notice
Imagine checking your email and finding a message like this:
“Dear You,
We regret to inform you that your insurance policy will not be renewed…”
This is a standard non-renewal notice. It lists your policy number, the insurer’s information, the state law governing the notice and — most importantly — the reason for non-renewal. It might cite underwriting changes, increased risk or non-compliance with policy terms.
It’s essentially a breakup letter. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do.
Why Insurers Can Non-Renew
Insurance policies renew annually, giving both you and the insurer a chance to reassess. You can choose to shop around. The insurer can decide whether it wants to continue insuring you. State laws govern how and when insurers can non-renew, and they often have less flexibility than you do.
If the reason given is something within your control — like an unfenced new pool or a tree overhanging your roof — you may be able to fix the issue and keep your policy in force.
Act Fast if the Issue Is Fixable
If you receive a non-renewal notice and the issue is something you can remedy, time is critical. You must immediately notify your insurer, agent or broker that you plan to address the problem.
Do
not wait until the work is complete. Tell them what you intend to fix and provide a timeline. Then follow through.
Waiting until the last minute and announcing “I fixed it!” the day before your policy expires will not help. Insurers need time to review proof, update systems and reverse the non-renewal.
Submit Proof Early — and Keep Records
Once you’ve completed the required work, gather thorough proof:
- Photos or videos
- Contractor receipts or documentation
- Written confirmations
Send everything promptly to both your insurer and your agent or broker. Get written confirmation that the materials were received.
Computers and humans both take time — don’t assume anything moves instantly.
Use the SCORE Method
If you get a non-renewal notice, remember this simple mantra:
S = Speak with your agent, broker or insurer immediately
C = Confirm the work required to reverse the non-renewal
O = Offer to complete the necessary repairs or corrections
R = Receive proof of the completed work
E = Ensure the insurer has reviewed and acknowledged your proof
Written communication is ideal — it’s harder for anyone to forget what was said when it’s documented.
When You Can’t Fix the Reason
Not every non-renewal gives you a path to reinstatement. Sometimes the reason is something you cannot reasonably address, such as a change in the insurer’s underwriting standards or geographic risk appetite.
In that case, the countdown clock is ticking, and your priority is finding new coverage. Start immediately. Get quotes from multiple insurers. Leave no stone unturned.
Being canceled or non-renewed isn’t the end of the road — but speed, communication and documentation will make all the difference in what happens next.
