Prior Resident added to my policy, how to remove

Removing a Prior Resident from My Maryland Insurance Policy

I live in a rental home in Maryland, and I’ve recently encountered an issue with my Progressive insurance policy. A former resident named Stacy D. (last name withheld for privacy) was added to my policy as an insured driver. I know very little about her—mostly just that I occasionally receive her mail, which indicates she once lived here.

This morning, I received updated policy documents and was shocked to see that my monthly premium jumped from $140 to $580 due to Stacy’s addition. Furthermore, I’ve lost some discounts, including my safe driving discount, because she has reportedly been involved in two at-fault accidents in the last year.

I contacted Progressive to request her removal, but the underwriting department informed me that I need to provide proof that she no longer resides at this address.

I have a few questions:

  1. How can I prove that someone I don’t know isn’t living here? I don’t have any way to contact her or find her current address—my only connection is that I sometimes receive her junk mail.

  2. If I succeed in having her removed from my policy, will I be able to regain my discounts, like the safe driving discount?

  3. As a renter, are there additional measures I can take to prevent previous residents from being added to my policy in the future?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

One thought on “Prior Resident added to my policy, how to remove

  1. I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really frustrating. Here are some suggestions and answers to your questions:

    1. Proving Someone Doesn’t Live at Your Address: In Maryland, you may be able to provide proof of residency through various documents. Here are a few suggestions:
    2. Lease Agreement: If your lease states that you are the sole occupant or lists only your name, this can serve as proof.
    3. Utility Bills: Current utility bills or statements in your name can also demonstrate that you live at this address.
    4. Mail: If you receive mail consistently addressed to you and not to Stacy D., collect that as additional evidence.
    5. Affidavit: Consider drafting a sworn statement (affidavit) stating that she does not live at your address and submit that to Progressive.

    Additionally, you might want to contact the local post office to inquire about returning misdelivered mail to inform them that she no longer resides there.

    1. Getting Discounts Back: It’s worth asking Progressive directly about reinstating your discounts once they have confirmed that Stacy D. has been removed from your policy. They may need to reevaluate your risk without her in the picture. Make sure to keep records of all your communications with the insurance provider regarding this matter.

    2. Preventing Future Issues with Prior Residents:

    3. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Ensure your insurance company is aware that you’re in a rental and that your policy should only include lawful residents. Providing them with documentation, such as your lease, may help.
    4. Regularly Update Your Information: Periodically review your policy and ensure your information is current. If you notice any changes or inconsistencies, report them immediately.
    5. Communicate with Your Landlord: It may also be helpful to discuss this with your landlord, as they may have records regarding the tenants who have lived there previously and could assist in affirming that Stacy D. does not reside there anymore.

    I hope this helps resolve your issue quickly! If you continue to face challenges, you may also want to consult with a consumer protection agency or legal expert familiar with insurance policies in your state.

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