Rhode Island Insurance Commissioner Joseph Torti III: Given No Hurricane-Force Winds in Rhode Island, Insurers May Not Impose Post-Irene Hurricane Deductible
Aug 29, 2011
Rhode Island Superintendent of Insurance Joseph Torti III issued a bulletin today, August 29, 2011, advising property insurers that they may not impose a hurricane deductible on Rhode Island claims. Licensed and emergency adjusters registered with the Rhode Island Insurance Division will not need a vehicle placard to access damaged areas.
The bulletin is reprinted below and attached for review.
Should you have any questions or comments, please contact Colodny Fass.
Industry Alert 2011 – 3
Tropical Storm Irene – August 2011
The State of Rhode Island did not sustain hurricane force winds as a result of Tropical Storm Irene. Therefore, pursuant to Insurance Regulation 110, Section 4F, insurers may not impose a hurricane deductible on Rhode Island claims.
With respect to the use of vehicle placards for adjusters assessing damage in Rhode Island, we have confirmed with the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency that vehicle placards will NOT be needed in Rhode Island in order to gain access to damaged areas. Licensed and emergency adjusters registered with the RI Insurance Division are free to travel throughout the State of Rhode Island to assess property damage resulting from Irene.
All licensees are reminded to follow the guidance offered by the Department in Insurance Bulletin 2011-5.
Please forward this notice to respective staff accordingly.
Joseph Torti III
Superintendent of Insurance
August 29, 2011