STJ rules: Insurer’s express coverage declaration is binding even before formal policy issuance

The Superior Court of Justice (STJ), in Jurisprudence Newsletter No. 884 (Third Panel, April 2026, REsp 2,189,140-SP, Rapporteur Justice Moura Ribeiro), ruled that an insurer’s express declaration acknowledging coverage is legally binding even before the formal issuance of a multi-risk insurance policy.

The court held that denying effectiveness to such a declaration frustrates the insured’s legitimate reliance, constituting a violation of objective good faith and the social function of contracts under Article 421 of the Civil Code.

The ruling has direct impact on B2B relationships and corporate insurance contract management, establishing that pre-contractual communications and coverage declarations are binding even before formal contract execution.

Source: STJ — Informativo de Jurisprudência nº 884
Photo: Canva

MORE PUBLICATIONS

Energy price volatility and domestic maritime costs

4.06.2026 | Newsletters

Global oil price volatility, geopolitical tensions and vessel availability constraints continue to affect maritime transportation costs worldwide. For Brazil, these global dynamics are directly relevant to cabotage and offshore logistics, where bunker prices, charter...

Bunker cost volatility and fuel regulation

3.06.2026 | Newsletters

Brazil’s cabotage market is facing increased pressure from freight costs and sharp fluctuations in bunker fuel prices. Bunker fuel remains one of the largest operating expenses for vessel operators, and volatility can directly affect the economics of maritime...

AFRMM exemption and the cost of maritime competitiveness

2.06.2026 | Newsletters

Brazilian shipping companies are advocating for a five-year extension of the non-incidence of the AFRMM on certain navigation operations. The sector argues that maintaining the exemption is important to preserve cabotage competitiveness, reduce logistics costs and...