CONSUMER ALERT: State Advises Pahoa and Puna Residents to Contact Their Insurance Companies

Posted on May 7, 2018 in News Releases

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
Insurance Division

DAVID Y. IGE
GOVERNOR

CATHERINE P. AWAKUNI COLóN
DIRECTOR

GORDON I. ITO
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2018

STATE ADVISES PAHOA AND PUNA RESIDENTS TO CONTACT THEIR INSURANCE COMPANIES
Clarify What May Be Covered for Homeowners and Business Owners Affected by Lava Flow

HONOLULU – The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division advises Leilani Estates and surrounding area residents to contact their insurance companies for coverage questions and applicable policy provisions.  Those impacted by the mandatory evacuations, fire, smoke or noxious fumes may be able to start a claim.

“If policyholders are unsure of what coverages they have, they should reach out to their insurance company as soon as possible,” said Insurance Commissioner Gordon Ito.  “We don’t want residents to have lingering questions about their policies and not take advantage of a benefit that they may not be aware of.  They should work with their agent to understand what is covered, and what is not.”

Consumers should inform their insurer of any damages or that they may be unable to access their home or business.  The policy may require a notification to the insurer within a certain timeframe.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions and keep detailed notes of any conversations

Pahoa and Puna residents who still have questions or concerns after contacting their insurance company can reach out to the Insurance Division using the toll-free Hawaii Island number, (808) 974-4000 x62790#.

For more information, a home insurance & lava flow FAQs brochure is available at cca.hawaii.gov/ins/resources.

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The Hawaii Insurance Division oversees the Hawaii insurance industry, issues licenses; examines the fiscal condition of Hawaii-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]
Office: (808) 586-7582