In every case where, pursuant to the provisions of this act, the commissioner is authorized or required to determine whether rates are reasonable and adequate, and not unfairly discriminatory, he may avail himself of the services of such experts as he may deem necessary or advisable for that purpose. In making such determination, the commissioner shall consider the factors applied by insurers and rating organizations generally in determining the bases for rates; the financial condition of the insurer; the method of operation of such insurer; the loss experience of the insurer, past and prospective, including where pertinent, the conflagration and catastrophe hazards, if any, both within and without this State; to all factors reasonably related to the kind of insurance involved; to a reasonable profit for the insurer, and, in the case of participating insurers, to policyholders’ dividends. In the case of fire insurance, he shall consider the latest available experience of the fire insurance business during a period of not less than five years preceding the year in which such rates are reviewed by him.

L.1944, c. 27, p. 76, s. 11.