Hanover has filed updated homeowners underwriting guidelines in Connecticut, introducing a broad set of eligibility, risk selection, and mitigation requirements for new and renewal business. For new business, the updated guidelines take effect February 26, 2026, with renewal changes effective April 27, 2026.

Under the revised framework, Hanover tightens eligibility criteria across dwelling value, loss history, construction characteristics, and system requirements. Coverage limits vary by product tier, with higher thresholds for Platinum and Prestige homes, and minimum coverage requirements set by occupancy type. Loss history remains a key gatekeeper, with multiple non weather or mixed losses rendering risks ineligible, while catastrophe only losses are carved out from declination triggers.

The guidelines expand requirements around fire protection, water mitigation, and alarms, particularly for higher value homes and secondary or seasonal residences. Homes with prior water losses may be required to install water sensors or automatic shutoff devices, and certain high value properties must carry centrally monitored burglar and fire alarms.

Hanover also clarifies its stance on construction and renovation risks, limiting eligibility to owner occupied dwellings with defined completion timelines and higher deductibles during active work. Roof age limits, plumbing and electrical standards, and restrictions on alternative heating sources are reinforced as baseline underwriting requirements.

On the ineligible side, the filing maintains exclusions for aggressive animals, certain dog breeds, outdated or hazardous building materials, aging flat roofs, in ground oil tanks, and properties with significant maintenance or occupancy issues. Additional scrutiny applies to rental exposures, business use of the home, public figures, and high value scheduled personal property.

For renewals, Hanover outlines conditions that may trigger underwriting review or non renewal, including repeated losses, deteriorating property conditions, vacancy, and failure to comply with mitigation requirements following a loss.