DFS: No More Underwriting of Subsidized Housing

​Insurers in New York are no longer permitted to take adverse underwriting actions regarding habitational properties that contain subsidized housing units, according to the state Department of Financial Services (DFS.) The department said it was acting in response to a new section of the state's insurance law that took effect this spring.The announcement came in a circular letter dated June 24, 2024 addressed to all New York licensed property-casualty insurers; licensed insurance producers; the New York Property Insurance Underwriting Association (NYPIUA); and the Excess Line Association of New York (ELANY.) Bernard Ganley, deputy superintendent of the department's Property Bureau, explained that the state budget enacted on…

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Video: Can You Use That Name?

​We often hear of Connecticut and New York insurance agencies operating under names that are different from the names on their New York licenses. Watch this video to learn why you shouldn't do that. You'll also learn what the process is for getting the right name on your agency's license.[embedded content] ​Source

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Adirondack Insurance Exchange: Your Questions Answered

​As we previously reported, on May 28 the financial strength rating of Adirondack Insurance Exchange (AIE) on the website of insurance carrier financial ratings agency Demotech was withdrawn. AIE, a subsidiary of Allstate Insurance Group headquartered in Western New York, posted the news on its website, as did Demotech. AIE sent an email on May 28 to its agents about the action; Demotech has not publicly commented.Over the last several days, many Big I New York members have contacted us with questions and concerns about this development. We will attempt to answer them here, but our information is limited. The best sources of information, should…

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