The regulatory environment for insurers continues to evolve rapidly, driven by emerging technologies, escalating climate risks, and rising expectations for transparency and accountability. At the 2025 Association of Insurance Compliance Professionals (AICP) Annual Conference in Baltimore, MD, compliance leaders, regulators, and industry experts explored how insurers can stay ahead of these shifts.
A major theme throughout the conference was the growing complexity and scrutiny of regulatory data requests. As data calls become more detailed and frequent, insurers are being pushed to strengthen internal processes for tracking, validating, and submitting accurate information across jurisdictions. Best practices emphasized by panelists included submitting data promptly and accurately, proactively clarifying parameters with the issuing authority, and being transparent about any errors. When issues arise in state-issued data calls, requesting a resubmission can help minimize follow-up scrutiny or potential consequences. Panelists also recommended maintaining a calendar of annual and quarterly data calls to get a head start on data collection and planning, and using visual boards, such as whiteboards or bulletin boards, to organize upcoming requirements and communicate workload to leadership. Strong communication, transparency, and documentation practices were consistently highlighted as essential to building and maintaining regulatory trust.
Another key takeaway was the industry’s increasing attention to climate resilience and the regulatory response to catastrophe risk. Resilience is no longer solely a policyholder concern—it is a regulatory and operational imperative that directly influences how insurers price, underwrite, and manage portfolios. In 2024 alone, the U.S. experienced 27 individual climate-related disasters, resulting in more than $200 billion in economic losses—a 36% increase over the last five years.
States are approaching the issue in varied but coordinated ways to reduce exposure and promote long-term market stability. Louisiana highlighted its Fortified Roof Program, which provides funds to help homeowners strengthen roofs against hurricane-force winds, reducing storm-related losses. Nevada discussed increasing wildfire risks near Lake Tahoe, where limited mitigation actions by homeowners have contributed to insurer nonrenewals. The Nevada Commissioner plans to address these gaps to help control potential wildfire losses and stabilize the market.
Technology’s expanding role in compliance and underwriting also sparked significant discussion, particularly the use of aerial imagery. With guidance now issued by 12 states in response to rising consumer complaints, insurers are being urged to ensure transparency and fairness in how aerial images inform decisions. The bulletins emphasize that imagery should be recent, consumers must be able to access and dispute it, and cosmetic issues should not influence underwriting outcomes. Since implementation, states have reported a decrease in related consumer complaints, reflecting a broader trend toward balancing innovation with responsible data practices and consumer protections.
Finally, conversations around adjuster consistency and the oversight of Managing General Agents (MGAs) and Delegated Underwriting Authority Enterprises (DUAEs) underscored the need for standardized performance metrics and strong accountability frameworks. As delegated authority arrangements grow, regulators are placing greater focus on visibility and control to ensure compliance remains strong across all functions.
The insights shared at the 2025 AICP Annual Conference reinforced what many in the industry already recognize—compliance is no longer a reactive requirement but a strategic driver of operational integrity and resilience. At AAIS, we continue to monitor these regulatory developments closely, helping Members as they anticipate change and strengthen their compliance frameworks through data-driven insights and collaborative engagement.
If you have questions about regulatory developments, data calls, or emerging compliance trends, AAIS is here to help. Our team is committed to supporting Members with timely insights, guidance, and resources to navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. To continue the conversation or learn how AAIS can support your compliance initiatives, reach out to us at membership@AAISonline.com.
