Hawaii Insurance Commissioner Issues Notice of Earthquake Coverage

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division has issued a notice to residents that some relief for earthquake related losses may be available under homeowners’ policies.

“As you already know, earthquake insurance coverage is not included in commercial and homeowners’ policies,” Commissioner J.P. Schmidt said in a statement. “Some relief for earthquake related losses may be available under your homeowner’s policy, such as ensuing glass breakage, theft, fire and food spoilage. Some coverage also may be available under your auto policy.”

The Commissioner is advising residents to contact their insurance producer to see whether claims can be made under the home or auto policies, and likely will evaluate claims on a case-by-case basis.

Earthquake insurance coverage in Hawaii is optional. The Commissioner indicated that to make earthquake coverage a mandatory part of “all perils” coverage, Hawaii Revised Statutes must be amended. He suggested residents might want to consider discussing the issue with their state senators and representatives, because they would have the power to introduce a bill in the legislature.

“We understand that this is a difficult time,” the Commissioner stated. “The Insurance Division is working with other state and federal relief agencies to assist Hawaii’s residents. Please do not hesitate to contact the Insurance Division at insurance.dcca.hawaii.gov or 808-586-2790 if you have any questions,” he said.