Hawaii Hurricanes

Moving to Hawaii? If you plan on buying or building a home, you will want to be sure that you are properly covered in the event of a flood, fire, earthquake, hurricane or other tragedy. Many home owners don’t realize it, but Hawaii has both flood and hurricane insurance, which are separate policies. Flood insurance and hurricane insurance in Hawaii cover two separate types of damage and having one does not mean you have the other. Be sure that you’re covered and talk to your representative today.

One of the most confusing facts to many in the difference between flood and hurricane coverage is that storm surges and flood caused by hurricanes are not covered by hurricane insurance. Hurricane insurance coverage takes care of damage caused by heavy winds and falling water. Storm surges and flood, which cause rising water, are covered by flood insurance.

You should also be sure what your insurance policy will and won’t cover. Will they pay for the cost to replace and repair your home or belongings at fair market value? If so, is it an appraised value before the storm or is it an actual value after the storm? How long will it take for you to get your payment? How will the company pay you? Will they work directly with suppliers and contractors? Will they offer you a lump sum? Will they require you cover the costs and then send them a bill for an amount to be determined and returned to you later?