In April 2026, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed into law HB808 which amends and reenacts Virginia Code §38.2-510 by adding subsection (D). This subsection goes into effect on July 1, 2026.
Subsection D creates new “show your work” requirements for adjusters seeking to change an estimate of damages. If the estimate is for $3,000.00 or more, then each change will require the following:
- A detailed explanation to the policy holder as to why any change reducing the loss estimate is made; and
- A detailed list of all changes made to the report with the identify of the person making each change.
This must be done for each version of the estimate. Further, the carrier must retain all versions with a notation regarding the identity of the person responsible for each change and/or new version.
Delegate Dan Helmer sponsored this bill as a part of Governor Spanberger’s push to make Virginia more affordable. However, this bill has a larger impact on the industry for two reasons: (1) it will create a paper trail for potential bad faith claims against insurers, and (2) it will force disclosure of any carrier reliance on AI in making changes to estimates.
The full language of the bill may be found here: https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB808/text/CHAP0672.
Questions about this advisory can be directed to Danielle Kent at (804) 566-3571 or dkent@tthlaw.com.