Short answer: Hawaii homeowners often need three pieces: a homeowners policy, coverage for hurricanes, and flood insurance, since homeowners and hurricane policies don't cover most flooding. The Hawaii Insurance Division explains that most hurricane policies use a 72-hour clause tied to Central Pacific Hurricane Center watches and warnings. On the Big Island, the Hawaii Property Insurance Association covers eligible homes in USGS lava flow hazard zones 1 and 2. Insurers must give 30 days' written notice before non-renewing.
This guide is general information for Hawaii homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Hurricane coverage and the 72-hour clause
The Hawaii Insurance Division's guide My Insurance Doesn't Cover What? says most companies have a 72-hour clause: once the National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center issues a hurricane watch or warning, damage during the following 72 hours should fall under a policy that covers hurricanes, even if the storm doesn't make landfall. Some hurricane policies have waiting periods, so buy well before storm season.
Step 2: Flood, with a 30-day wait
The Division reminds residents that homeowners and hurricane insurance don't cover most flooding, even during a storm, and that an NFIP flood policy generally has a 30-day waiting period. Quote through FloodSmart.
Step 3: Lava zones 1 and 2
Under HRS §431:21-107, properties in lava zones 1 and 2, the two most hazardous zones on the U.S. Geological Survey's lava flow hazard map, that meet the plan's standards are provided insurance through the Hawaii Property Insurance Association. The Division also notes that if a lava flow causes a fire that damages your home, that damage may be covered as a fire peril under most standard policies.
Step 4: Non-renewal notice
Under HRS §431:10-226.5, insurers must give 30 days' written notice before non-renewal. Details: Hawaii homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claims
Under HRS §431:13-103, insurers must respond to claim communications within 15 working days and pay within 30 calendar days after accepting liability when the amount isn't in dispute. More: Hawaii insurance claim deadlines.
See our tables: non-renewal notice rules by state, insurance claim deadlines by state and home insurance claim and lawsuit deadlines by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Hawaii.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 72-hour clause in Hawaii hurricane insurance?
Most companies cover damage during the 72 hours after the Central Pacific Hurricane Center issues a hurricane watch or warning under the hurricane policy, even without landfall, according to the Hawaii Insurance Division.
Who insures homes in Hawaii lava zones 1 and 2?
The Hawaii Property Insurance Association, under HRS §431:21-107, for properties that meet its standards.
Is lava damage covered by a standard Hawaii homeowners policy?
If a lava flow causes a fire that damages your home, the damage may be covered as a fire peril under most standard policies.
How much notice before a Hawaii homeowners non-renewal?
30 days' written notice under HRS §431:10-226.5.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.