The Maryland Insurance Administration published a bulletin providing information on the use of aerial imagery and its limitations in personal or commercial property insurance.

The Administration recognizes the use of satellite and aerial imagery as a useful tool; however, if it is used as the reason for cancellation, nonrenewal, or claim denial, the image must be clear, accurate, and current. In addition, if an aerial image merely shows cosmetic damage to a roof, such as streaking or discoloration, that is not sufficient reason to support cancellation of nonrenewal of a policy.

Maryland insurance law states that insurers must give a justified reason for the cancellation or nonrenewal of a policy. Low-quality aerial images that do not clearly show the property cannot be used to justify a cancellation without a physical inspection of the property. The insurance commissioner can disallow a proposed cancellation or nonrenewal if there is not sufficient reason.