State: Make sure you’re covered before disaster strikes

The home it took months or even longer to build could be destroyed in a matter of minutes by hurricane-force winds or raging flood waters from heavy rainfall.

Are you covered for the loss?

Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division reminds island residents to review their insurance policies before the Central Pacific hurricane season begins June 1.

“Understanding what your insurance covers before a disaster hits is crucial,” said Acting Insurance Commissioner Jerry Bump. “It ensures you have enough coverage to rebuild or replace what you’ve lost. For example, if you’ve recently renovated your home, that likely increased its value. And even without upgrades, rising costs for materials and labor can still affect your coverage needs.”

Many consumers might not realize that standard homeowners and renters insurance policies typically do not cover hurricane and flood damage.

Hurricane insurance often must be purchased separately or added as an endorsement to an existing policy to ensure protection against hurricane-related damages.

Additionally, once a tropical storm approaches the islands, insurance companies might issue a moratorium, temporarily halting the issuance of new policies.

Flooding damage also is typically covered under a separate policy.

It’s important for property owners to consider adding flood insurance coverage because flooding can happen anytime and anywhere, even outside high-risk areas.

Those planning to purchase a National Flood Insurance Program policy should plan ahead; there is typically a 30-day waiting period for the policy to go into effect.

Consumers need to contact their agent or insurance company if they have any property updates or questions about their coverage.

Visit the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division’s website for additional information about flood and hurricane insurance as well as other helpful resources.