Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KIAʻĀINA

NADINE Y. ANDO
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

 GORDON I. ITO
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 18, 2024

Residents Advised to Review Insurance Policies and Consider Flood Insurance As Wet Season Continues

HONOLULU — As residents and businesses clean up after heavy rains and gusty winds earlier this week, the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division reminds everyone to review and understand their insurance coverages and deductibles as wet season continues.

“Everyone should know what their insurance policies cover and the out-of-pocket expenses they are responsible for, before their insurance takes effect. If they are unsure, policyholders can contact their agent or insurance company with questions,” said Insurance Commissioner Gordon I. Ito.

“As parts of the state faced possible flooding and strong winds this week, we are reminded that natural disasters can be unpredictable and flooding can happen anytime and anywhere,” Ito added.

Consumers need to be aware that most standard homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance coverages can be purchased separately from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or endorsed onto the policy to supplement a policyholder’s homeowners insurance.

Consumers interested in NFIP need to keep in mind that there is a 30-day waiting period. To learn more, visit https://floodsmart.gov/ or talk with your agent.

To help consumers shop and compare, the Hawai‘i Insurance Division annually publishes its Premium Comparison guides. Consumers can use these informational guides to review and compare sample premiums from insurance companies licensed in Hawai‘i. The 2024 guides are now available online at cca.hawaii.gov/ins/resources.

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The Hawaiʻi Insurance Division regulates the Hawaiʻi insurance industry, issues licenses, examines the fiscal condition of Hawaiʻi-based companies, reviews rate and policy filings, and investigates insurance-related complaints.

Media Contact:
William Nhieu
Communications Officer
Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 808-586-7582