Solar Panels or Moss? How Aerial Errors Lead to Policy Drops

In a surprising twist, California homeowners Janice and Anthony Coleman found themselves battling their long-standing insurance provider when Liberty Mutual incorrectly identified their solar panels as "moss and mold growth." Despite hiring a roofer to verify the roof’s integrity, the couple's appeal was denied, leaving them scrambling for a new, pricier policy.

Aerial technology, like drones, has become a common tool in insurance assessments, used to quickly review potential risks and property conditions. However, mistakes like the Colemans’ experience highlight the downside: errors can lead to unexpected policy cancellations and higher costs for customers who have held policies for years.

Why Insurance Companies Rely on Aerial Technology

Aerial surveillance enables insurers to evaluate roof age, tree hazards, property size, and wildfire risks without ever setting foot on the property. Alex Adekola, CEO of ReadyAdjuster, explains,

“Drones are commonly used to capture aerial imagery,”

allowing carriers to "improve their underwriting accuracy." Yet, this same technology can sometimes misrepresent real property conditions, like mistaking solar panels for roof damage.

With $59.2 billion in storm-related insurance losses last year alone, insurance companies are doubling down on aerial assessments to mitigate risks—often leading to stricter criteria for policyholders. Insurance advocates argue these assessments can ultimately reduce rates by identifying high-risk properties, but for some, they feel like an excuse to drop longtime customers.

Rising Policy Drops and Increased Costs for Homeowners

California's wildfire risks have led major insurers, including State Farm and Farmers Insurance, to limit or stop issuing new policies in the state, leaving fewer options for homeowners. Nichole Brink, a former insurance agent, highlights that decisions based on outdated aerial images are not uncommon.

“Dropping customers over old photos isn’t new,”

she noted, underscoring the potential cost-cutting motive behind such denials.

Homeowners like the Colemans are not alone, as aerial assessments increasingly impact policy renewals across the state. Jameson Tyler Drew, president of Anubis Properties, notes,

“Desk reviews are far cheaper and easier when making policy decisions,”

meaning aerial imagery can speed up decisions but at a potential cost to accuracy and customer satisfaction.

Steps to Take if Your Policy Is Dropped

If your insurance company drops your policy due to an aerial image:

1. Request a Review: Contact your insurer, ask for the aerial image, and seek clarification on the identified issues.
2. Correct Any Errors: If possible, resolve the concerns and request a reassessment.
3. File a Complaint: For unresolved cases, reach out to your state’s Department of Insurance (DOI) for potential recourse.
4. Consider an Independent Broker: Independent brokers can help compare rates and find alternative coverage options.

Proactive Measures to Avoid Future Cancellations

Homeowners can be proactive by asking their agents what steps might prevent issues during aerial assessments. Simple measures like trimming tree branches, removing potential hazards, and clearing debris could help maintain coverage.

Bottomline

Navigating the evolving landscape of insurance assessments can be complex, but there are steps you can take to safeguard your coverage. If you're thinking about a move to a new home, especially in California, it pays to stay informed. Let’s connect to explore options for securing your dream home.

Reference: Taylor, Julie. "Homeowners Dropped From Insurance Policy After Solar Panels on Roof Are Mistaken for ‘Moss’." CBS13, October 29, 2024.