What Is Force-Placed Insurance?

Force-placed insurance, also known as lender-placed insurance, is a type of policy imposed by a lender when a borrower’s or homeowner’s own insurance coverage lapses or is deemed insufficient. It is designed to protect the lender’s financial interest in the property, not the borrower, and is commonly applied to mortgages or auto loans. While it serves an important purpose for lenders, force-placed insurance can have significant implications for homeowners.

How Force-Placed Insurance Works

When you take out a mortgage or an auto loan, your lender typically requires you to maintain adequate insurance coverage to protect the collateral (your home or car). If you fail to provide proof of coverage, allow your policy to lapse, or carry insufficient coverage, the lender has the right to purchase an insurance policy on your behalf and bill you for the cost. Perhaps the most common cause of force-placed insurance is non-payment of premiums, which results in policy cancellation.

Key Characteristics of Force-Placed Insurance

1. High Premiums: Force-placed insurance policies are often much more expensive than standard insurance obtained by the borrower.
2. Limited Coverage: These policies primarily protect the lender’s interest in the property and may not include personal belongings, liability coverage, or additional living expenses.‍
3. No Control Over Terms: Borrowers have no say in the coverage terms, provider, or premium rates.

Impacts on Borrowers

• Increased Costs: Borrowers may see a sharp rise in monthly mortgage or loan payments due to the high cost of force-placed insurance.
• Limited Protection: The borrower’s property may not be fully covered, leading to gaps in protection for personal belongings or other risks.‍
• Credit Implications: Unpaid premiums for force-placed policies can lead to increased debt and negatively impact the borrower’s credit score.

How to Avoid Force-Placed Insurance

1. Maintain Continuous Coverage: Ensure your homeowner’s or auto insurance policy does not lapse by keeping premiums up to date.
2. Meet Lender Requirements: Verify that your policy meets the lender’s coverage limits and other standards.
3. Provide Proof of Coverage: Send updated insurance documents to your lender promptly after policy renewals.‍
4. Shop for Affordable Coverage: If your current insurance policy becomes unaffordable, work with an agent to find a more cost-effective option rather than letting coverage lapse.

What to Do If You’re Charged for Force-Placed Insurance

If your lender imposes force-placed insurance, you can take steps to resolve the issue:

1. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Confirm whether your coverage has lapsed or failed to meet lender requirements.
2. Provide Proof of Coverage: If you already have sufficient insurance, send proof to your lender to have the force-placed policy removed.
3. Switch Providers: If your existing policy no longer meets requirements, shop for a compliant policy and provide details to your lender.‍
4. Review Charges: Check your statements to ensure you’re not being overcharged for force-placed insurance.

Conclusion

Force-placed insurance protects lenders but often comes at a high cost and limited benefit to borrowers. Maintaining adequate, compliant insurance coverage is the best way to avoid it. If you find yourself facing force-placed insurance, act quickly to resolve the issue or call Averill & Reaney for help. Our experienced attorneys specialize in insurance disputes and can review your policy to ensure your interests are protected.