Short answer: If no regular insurer will cover your Maryland home, the Maryland Joint Insurance Association (JIA) can issue dwelling, homeowners or commercial property policies. Its coverage may be more restrictive and more expensive, but the Maryland Insurance Administration says a policy will be issued if the JIA's underwriting guidelines are met, even if the home is next to vacant properties. Flood, a real risk near the Chesapeake Bay and rivers, needs its own policy. Insurers must give 45 days' notice of non-renewal by tracked first-class mail.
This guide is general information for Maryland homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Add flood coverage
Homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood, including tidal flooding along the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers. Quote a policy through FloodSmart or a private insurer, and remember most NFIP policies have a waiting period.
Step 2: Shop widely before the residual market
Ask your agent to check admitted insurers and surplus lines. See FAIR Plan vs. surplus lines home insurance.
Step 3: The Joint Insurance Association
The Maryland Insurance Administration's JIA advisory explains:
- The JIA covers individuals and businesses who can't get essential property insurance on dwellings or business property in the competitive market.
- It can issue dwelling property, homeowners and commercial property policies.
- Coverage may be more restrictive and more expensive than private insurers' policies.
- The JIA has underwriting guidelines, but a policy will be issued if those guidelines are met, even if the building is adjacent to vacant properties.
- The Administration will investigate complaints from anyone who believes an insurer or the JIA refused coverage in violation of Maryland law.
Step 4: Non-renewal notice
Under Md. Ins. §27-602, for policies in force more than 45 days, insurers must give 45 days' notice of non-renewal by first-class mail with tracking. Details: Maryland homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claim deadlines
Under COMAR 31.15.07.03, insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 working days and accept or deny within 15 working days after completed claim forms or proof of loss, or explain in writing why they need more time. More: Maryland insurance claim deadlines.
See our tables: non-renewal notice rules by state, insurance claim deadlines by state and home insurance claim and lawsuit deadlines by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Maryland.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Maryland Joint Insurance Association?
Maryland's residual property insurer for people who can't get essential property insurance in the competitive market. It can issue dwelling, homeowners and commercial property policies.
Can the Maryland JIA refuse my home because nearby houses are vacant?
The Maryland Insurance Administration says a policy will be issued if JIA guidelines are met, even if the building is adjacent to vacant properties.
How much notice before a Maryland homeowners non-renewal?
45 days for policies in force more than 45 days, by first-class mail with tracking, under Md. Ins. §27-602.
How fast must a Maryland insurer decide a claim?
Within 15 working days after completed claim forms or proof of loss, or explain why more time is needed.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.