Residents encourged to file insurance claims as promptly as possible

As severe weather affects the state, the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division reminds residents to protect their property and file insurance claims promptly and efficiently.

If your home, vehicle, or personal property has been damaged, contact your insurance company or agent immediately to report the loss. Request your claim number and confirm any deadlines for filing or submitting documentation. Starting your claim promptly helps ensure your coverage is applied correctly and delays are avoided.

Document all damage by taking clear photos or videos. If it is safe to do so, keep damaged items until the insurance adjuster has inspected them. Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, such as placing tarps over roof leaks or boarding broken windows, but avoid making permanent repairs until your insurer has approved them.

Keep records of all expenses related to the damage, including temporary repairs, hotel stays, meals, and other costs caused by the storm. Save receipts and write down what was damaged, when it occurred, and what actions you took to protect your property.

When an insurance adjuster contacts you, be available for inspections and provide any requested documents. Review settlement offers carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.

To help residents navigate the claims process, the Hawaiʻi Insurance Division offers a “Post-Disaster Insurance Claims Guide” and an instructional video on how to file an insurance claim.These resources provide practical tips and step-by-step guidance on documenting losses, understanding coverage, and working with insurers after a disaster.

The Hawaiʻi Insurance Division also reminds residents to review their insurance policies annually and take steps to ensure a smoother recovery and insurance claims process after the storm passes.

One of the most important steps homeowners, renters, and condominium unit owners can take is to review their insurance policies to understand what is covered and what is not. Residents should also keep copies of their property, flood, and auto insurance policies in a waterproof container or stored securely in the cloud so they can be easily accessed if a claim must be filed.

Consumers are also encouraged to create or update a home inventory before a storm arrives. Taking photos or videos of each room and documenting furniture, appliances, electronics, and valuables can help speed up the claims process. Receipts, serial numbers, and other records for high-value items should also be saved whenever possible.

Residents should also be aware that most standard homeowners, condominium unit owners, and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is available separately through the National Flood Insurance Program, which usually requires a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. To learn more, visit floodsmart.gov or talk with your insurance agent.

The Hawaiʻi Insurance Division provides several online resources to help consumers better understand their insurance coverage, including “My Insurance Doesn’t Cover What? and Annual Review of Your Insurance Policies.

Consumers may contact the Hawaiʻi Insurance Division at 1-844-808-DCCA (3222) ext. 4 or visit http://cca.hawaii.gov/ins for claim-filing tips, disaster recovery resources, and assistance with insurance-related concerns.