You asked whether there are any limitations on an insurer's request that a property owner make certain modifications to the property before agreeing to insure it.

According to Walter Bell, Director, Property & Casualty Division, state insurance department, property insurers can require owners to update, correct, fix-up, or modify their property if it is "reasonable" and "related" to a hazard or peril insured against. The key is that the request must be reasonable in light of the type of coverage involved and related to a covered peril.

Bell warns that some requests are unreasonable and may merely be a pretense for the insurer to refuse to renew a policy. If this is a concern the consumer affairs division should be contacted. Their number is 860-297-3904.

JH: eh