Massachusetts § 96 - Fire loss; limitation on liability beyond actual value of insured property; reimbursement of premium paid on amount in excess of actual value

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 96 — Fire loss; limitation on liability beyond actual value of insured property; reimbursement of premium paid on amount in excess of actual value, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 96. Fire loss; limitation on liability beyond actual value of insured property; reimbursement of premium paid on amount in excess of actual value

Section 96. If buildings within the commonwealth insured against loss by fire are totally destroyed by fire, the company shall not be liable beyond the actual value of the insured property at the time of the loss or damage; and if it shall appear that the insured has paid premiums on an amount in excess of said actual value, he shall be reimbursed the proportionate excess of premiums paid on the difference between the amount named in the policy and said actual value, with interest at six per cent per annum from the date of issue; and said excess of premiums and interest thereon shall be allowed the insured from the time any companies carrying said insurance at the time of the loss have continuously carried the insurance on the destroyed buildings, whether under policies existing at the time of the loss or under previous policies in the same companies.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 96

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 96 cover?

Section 96 ("Fire loss; limitation on liability beyond actual value of insured property; reimbursement of premium paid on amount in excess of actual value") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 96?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 96" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 96 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.