What must an insurer do if it decides to cancel a standard fire policy?

When an insurer decides to cancel a standard fire policy, it is required to notify the insured in writing with proof of mailing. This requirement ensures that the insured is formally informed of the cancellation in a manner that can be documented, which is important for legal and operational reasons. Written notification serves as a clear, official record that protects both the insurer and the insured, as it helps to prevent disputes regarding whether or not the insured was adequately informed about the policy cancellation.

Other forms of communication, such as a phone call or email, may not provide the same level of formal acknowledgement and proof that the cancellation notification was received. A written notice with proof of mailing creates a trustworthy paper trail that can be relied upon for future reference, thereby fulfilling the insurer's obligations under Illinois law regarding policy cancellations.