State Farm has decided to renew homeowners’ insurance for residents in Santa Ana after a drone was reportedly used to monitor properties.
Linda Bennett expressed her immense relief upon learning that her insurance company had reversed its earlier decision to cancel her policy, a result of the previous year’s controversy.
“It’s like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders,” she shared, noting that coverage will continue starting May 1.
Bennett initially received a letter indicating that her homeowner’s insurance would be canceled unless she replaced her roof, a task she estimated would cost between $20,000 and $50,000.
“I don’t have that kind of money, and I’ve lived in this house since it was new,” she remarked.
The situation underscores a trend where insurance companies utilize drones, aerial imagery, and sometimes artificial intelligence to assess properties. Bennett suspects this might explain why her roof was under scrutiny.
“When I got the notice, I thought, ‘Nobody’s going to come out.’ No one’s going to call me and say, ‘I need my roof inspected for my insurance policy,'” she recalled. “I heard that the roof needed to be replaced…but there was no explanation.”
Bennett had actually been planning some minor roof repairs already. After hiring a contractor, she discovered that the roof was, in fact, in good shape and could last another nine years.
“Then I received a call from my agent… He said, ‘Hey, I’ve got some good news. We don’t need to replace the roof, and we’re renewing our policy starting May 1.’ I was just… hooray!” she exclaimed.
Consumer advocates are encouraging homeowners to act promptly if they get similar notices.
“Reply or call right away,” advised Amy Buck, a policyholder. “Ask, ‘Is my situation not updated based on the aerial view?’ And say, ‘I’d like to see that image.’ Please show me those pictures and give me a chance to resolve whatever issue there might be.”
Bennett highlighted the anxiety she felt when faced with the threat of losing her coverage.
“It was just like, ‘That’s it. Sorry. The roof needs to be replaced. If not, you’ll need to find another agent or insurance.’ Well, you can’t just do that,” she said.
Now with insurance secured, Bennett feels fortunate for the support she has received.
