Does Homeowners, Renters Policies Cover Flooding?

Does homeowners, renters policies cover flooding?

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Homeowners and renters islandwide are urged to review their insurance policies following a severe storm in late January.

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January’s “potent” low-pressure system brought heavy rains, thunderstorms and gusty winds to the Hawaiian islands, with some residents experiencing flooding in their homes.

As the wet season continues, officials from the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs encourage all homeowners to go over their policies and deductibles.

DCCA officials issued the reminder to bring awareness to those who don’t realize most standard homeowners, condo unit owners and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage.

“One of the main things that happens in a wet season like this is we have flooding. And we just wanted consumers to understand that flooding is generally not covered in homeowners policy,” said Sam Thompson, DCAA.

Homeowners who want to add flood insurance to their policy must purchase it separately from the National Flood Insurance Program.

Insurance can also be “endorsed onto the policy to supplement a policyholder’s homeowners insurance.”

Don’t wait until it’s too late though, as NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period before they can fully go into effect.

“With the recent local forecasts including possible flooding and strong winds, we are reminded that natural disasters can be unpredictable, and flooding can happen anytime and anywhere,” said acting Insurance Commissioner Jerry Bump.