An expiration notice is a communication advising that a policy or coverage period is about to end and may need renewal or replacement. In plain language, it warns the insured or agent that the current term is close to ending.
How it works
An expiration notice may be sent by the insurer, broker, or agency depending on the line of business and the applicable law. It can be informational, but in some situations notice timing is regulated, especially when the policy will not be renewed or when statutory notice requirements apply.
The notice usually identifies:
- the policy and insured
- the expiration date
- whether a renewal offer is available
- what premium or underwriting information is still needed
- what happens if the policy is not renewed in time
Why it matters
Timely notice helps reduce uninsured gaps and gives the insured time to accept renewal terms or find replacement coverage. For agencies, it also creates a documented renewal-contact trail.
Practical example
An insurer mails an expiration notice 45 days before a homeowners policy ends. The notice tells the insured when the current term expires, what the renewal premium will be, and when payment must be received to keep coverage in force without interruption.