Lenders & Contracts · Insurance Term
Notice of Cancellation
Definition
A notice of cancellation is the written notice an insurer sends before it ends a policy early, or that confirms a cancellation you requested. Lenders, landlords and others with an interest often ask to receive a copy so they know if coverage stops.
In Plain English
Insurers usually must give advance written notice before canceling a policy midterm. The amount of notice depends on the reason, such as nonpayment or something else, and on your policy and state law. The notice goes to the first named insured and to others the policy requires.
Lenders listed under a mortgagee clause usually have their own right to notice. A certificate holder, by contrast, generally has no right to notice just from holding a certificate. Standard certificates say notice will be delivered under the policy's provisions, and the certificate does not change the policy.
If a contract requires that a party receive notice of cancellation, ask your agent whether your insurer can add an endorsement for that. It is different from a nonrenewal, which happens at expiration.
Not sure how your policy handles this? Have us review it, or get a quote.
Example
Hypothetical: a lease requires 30 days' notice to the landlord if the tenant's insurance is canceled. The tenant's certificate lists the landlord as certificate holder but no endorsement was added. When the tenant's policy is canceled for nonpayment, the landlord is not notified.
What to Watch For
- Read every notice from your insurer or premium finance company the day it arrives.
- Check whether contracts require notice to others, and whether your policy actually provides it.
- Make sure your mailing address and email on the policy are current.
- If you receive a cancellation notice, call your agent right away to see whether it can be reversed.
Last updated October 14, 2026 · Primesure editorial team · How We Write