Chapter 453 Acts of 2008: Homeowner Oil Heating System Upgrade and Insurance Law

A new Massachusetts law, effective July 1, 2010, requires homeowners who heat their homes with oil to upgrade home heating system equipment to prevent leaks from tanks and pipes connected to their furnaces.

The best way to learn more about the upgrade requirements is to use the following link to visit the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website. Contact a heating system professional to determine if your heating system requires an upgrade.

The law also requires insurance companies that write homeowners insurance policies to offer coverage for leaks from oil heating systems. Each insurance company may offer slightly different coverage options, and pricing may vary. At this point, Murphy Insurance has yet to receive information from the insurance companies we represent.

If you would like us to contact you when the information becomes available, please complete our Contact Us form requesting that we contact you regarding “Heating System Leak Coverage.”

Sources: Homeowner Oil Heating System Upgrade and Insurance Law, Home Oil Spill Clean-Up Guide

Read Other Blog Posts

What to Do When a Hurricane Threatens

Get Ready for Hurricane Season in New England: What You Need to Know

While New England is not typically directly in the hurricane "strike zone" like the Gulf Coast or the Southeast, that doesn’t mean we’re immune to the dangers of hurricanes and tropical storms. With that in mind, it's important to have a plan as hurricane season approaches and be sure you understand your insurance coverage.
Driver

Defensive Driving Tips

Using proper defensive driving techniques will help keep both you and other drivers safe on the road. With this in mind, be sure to implement the following defensive driving guidance the next time you get behind the wheel.
Women talking

Understanding the Insurance Knowledge Gap Among Gen Z

Surveys reveals that many Gen Z adults feel overwhelmed by insurance and lack understanding of basic coverage terms, leading to gaps in their protection. However, by working with trusted insurance professionals, they can gain clarity and make informed decisions about essential coverage for their future.
Murphy’s Law Now Officially Sponsored by Murphy Insurance

Murphy’s Law: Now Officially Sponsored by Murphy Insurance

Murphy Insurance is now the official sponsor of Murphy’s Law—because if anything can go wrong, it probably already has. To mark the occasion, we’re rolling out a tongue-in-cheek lineup of “coverage” for life’s most ridiculous moments, from lost socks to seagull snack theft. While these faux policies are just for fun (for now), our real team is always here with real coverage for life’s unpredictable turns. Happy April Fools Day from Murphy Insurance—when Murphy’s Law strikes, call Murphy Insurance.
Auto Insurance in Hudson MA

Auto Insurance in Hudson, MA: What You Need to Know

If you live in Hudson, MA, or the surrounding areas, securing the right auto insurance is essential. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend traveler, or a first-time driver, having the appropriate coverage ensures protection on the road and compliance with Massachusetts’ legal requirements.
Car close-up

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

When you’re involved in a vehicle collision and the other driver takes off without exchanging insurance information, this is commonly referred to as a hit-and-run. Review the following guidance to understand what information to collect and who to contact following a hit-and-run incident.
Pest Prevention Keep Your Home Pest-Free with Proactive Measures

Pest Prevention | Keep Your Home Pest-Free with Proactive Measures

Pests can cause structural damage, contaminate food, and pose health risks, making proactive prevention essential since home insurance doesn’t cover pest-related damage. Key prevention tips include proper food storage, maintaining outdoor vegetation, regular home inspections, and keeping living spaces clean to minimize pest attraction. For persistent issues, professional pest control may be necessary, and Murphy Insurance is available to provide guidance on home protection and insurance coverage.
Stairs

How to Prevent Falls at Home

Falls are one of the most common and dangerous accidents that occur at home and on the job—especially on staircases. In order to determine whether there are fall hazards within your home, be sure to ask yourself these key questions.
Outdoor Maintenance: Protecting Your Home and Enhancing Your Curb Appeal

Outdoor Maintenance | Protecting Your Home and Enhancing Your Curb Appeal

Regular outdoor maintenance not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also prevents costly damage and potential insurance issues. Key tasks include cleaning gutters, inspecting the roof, maintaining landscaping, power washing exteriors, and ensuring outdoor structures like fences and decks are in good condition. Staying proactive with seasonal upkeep helps protect your home, reduce long-term repair costs, and maintain insurance coverage eligibility.

Visit Our Homeowners Insurance Page

Homeowners Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we take great care in assessing your options for homeowners insurance to ensure that you receive the most favorable value. Our dedication to serving you entails collaborating with highly-rated insurance providers and conducting comprehensive assessments of available choices. Our goal is to achieve the ideal equilibrium between affordability and coverage that suits your unique needs. Please let us provide you with a customized homeowners insurance quote.