Superintendent of Financial Services Linda A. Lacewell today announced the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) issued an emergency regulation requiring New York-regulated insurers to accelerate the resolution and payment of insurance claims by businesses and individuals who suffered damage as a result of looting. The emergency regulation follows Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s announcement and is based on similar emergency relief applied in the aftermath of Super Storm Sandy.

DFS is aware that New York-regulated insurers have written policies that may be triggered by property damage resulting from looting that has occurred throughout the state. DFS expects the insurance industry to do its part to support New York businesses and individuals that are suffering from the compounding effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and the looting. In this situation, it is imperative that insurers, as well as agents and brokers, work towards fair and speedy resolutions of claims.

“DFS expects New York’s insurance industry to cooperate fully in expediting property damage claims due to looting, to allow claimants, including main street small businesses and households, to rebuild and recover,” said Superintendent Lacewell. “Regulated insurers have an obligation to move quickly, and this action will facilitate the effective processing and resolution of claims.”

DFS’ emergency regulation requires New York-regulated insurers to: 

• Promptly process and investigate insurance claims made by policyholders;
• Allow policyholders to make immediate repairs to damaged property if necessary to protect health or safety, and to submit claims with reasonable proof such as photographs or video recordings; and
• Offer small businesses and consumers the option to resolve disputes through an impartial mediation process paid for by the applicable insurer.

Insurers and producers should also recognize that affected New York policyholders may be limited in their ability to document claims due to the ongoing burdens of the COVID-19 pandemic and potential continuing unrest. In addition, insurers and producers should assist policyholders with helpful information regarding emergency aid, tips for damage prevention, and resources for remediating damage.

A copy of the emergency regulation can be found on the DFS website.

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