In May 2012, we published the article The Matching Game and Pre-Loss Conditions due to the number of questions on matching that FC&S editors had received. Since then, we’ve received many more questions on matching; insurers have changed some policy forms, and some states have enacted clarifying statutes. We've since updated our chart of matching statutes in the article Matching by State - Cases, Regulations and Department Bulletins.

So what exactly is the issue? Covered perils cause damage to insured property - a tree falls on a roof, the wind blows siding off, or something similar. The insured files a claim with her insurer, who examines the property and arranges for repairs to be made. So far, so good.

However, as often happens, the roof, siding, or other portions of the property are a little older, and those particular shingles or siding are no longer available. The insurer looks for property that will match the existing, undamaged property but finds nothing available. Over time, designs, styles, and colors are updated and changed, and certain property becomes obsolete. Herein lies the problem.