Short answer: In Massachusetts, coastal wind exposure on Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket and the South Shore drives most homeowners insurance decisions, often through a separate wind or hurricane deductible. The Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association (MPIUA), the state's FAIR Plan, sells basic property insurance to owners who made a reasonable effort and couldn't get voluntary coverage. Insurers must give 45 days' notice before non-renewing.
This guide is general information for Massachusetts homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Check your coastal wind deductible
Many coastal Massachusetts policies, including FAIR Plan policies, carry a separate wind or hurricane deductible, often a percentage of the dwelling limit. Find it on your declarations page and set aside savings to cover it. Ask about credits for shutters or impact-resistant windows. See hurricane deductibles explained.
Step 2: Buy flood insurance separately
Homeowners and FAIR Plan policies don't cover flood. Quote through FloodSmart or a private insurer.
Step 3: The FAIR Plan (MPIUA)
According to the Massachusetts Division of Insurance, you may qualify for the FAIR Plan if you have an insurable interest in Massachusetts property and made a reasonable effort to get voluntary coverage but couldn't. The property must meet underwriting standards and generally can't be vacant or condemned. MPIUA plays a larger role in Massachusetts than in many states, especially on the Cape and Islands. Read the Massachusetts FAIR Plan explained.
Step 4: The 45-day non-renewal notice
Under M.G.L. c.175 §193P, insurers must give 45 days' notice of non-renewal. Mid-term cancellation follows §99. Details: Massachusetts homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claims
The unfair claim settlement practices law, M.G.L. c.176D §3(9), requires insurers to act reasonably promptly and decide within a reasonable time after proof of loss, without fixed day counts. More: Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for the Massachusetts FAIR Plan?
Owners with an insurable interest in Massachusetts property who made a reasonable effort to buy voluntary coverage and couldn't, if the property meets underwriting standards.
How much notice before a Massachusetts homeowners non-renewal?
45 days under M.G.L. c.175 §193P.
Does the Massachusetts FAIR Plan cover flood?
No. Buy a separate flood policy.
Does Massachusetts set day limits for paying home claims?
No fixed day counts. Chapter 176D requires reasonably prompt handling and a decision within a reasonable time after proof of loss.
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.