Research
Plain-language guides on Hawaii lava zones, FEMA flood maps, wildfire risk data, and how to navigate the homeowners insurance market on the islands.
State Farm, Farmers, and a growing list of regional carriers have stopped writing new homeowners policies in Hawaii. Here is why it is happening, which counties are most exposed, and how knowing your property's exact risk profile can change the conversation with your next broker.
Read article →If every private carrier has declined your property, the Hawaii Property Insurance Association must accept you. Learn what HPIA covers, what it excludes, the coverage limits, how to qualify, and how to use it alongside flood and wind policies.
Read article →The USGS divides Hawaii into nine lava hazard zones based on historical eruption data and proximity to rift zones. If you own property on the Big Island — or are considering buying there — understanding which zone you are in is one of the most consequential data points you will encounter.
Read article →After the 2023 Lahaina fire, wildfire is the fastest-moving factor in Hawaii homeowners insurance underwriting. Learn how the HWMO wildfire score is calculated, what Moderate and High mean for your carrier options, and which islands face the most exposure.
Read article →FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program designates every parcel in Hawaii into a flood zone. The designation on your policy jacket — AE, VE, or X — determines whether flood insurance is required, how much it costs, and how lenders will treat your loan.
Read article →Distance from the shoreline is one of the most consequential inputs in Hawaii property insurance pricing, and most buyers never learn their number until a carrier declines. Learn the thresholds underwriters use and what they mean for coverage and cost.
Read article →Hawaii has not taken a direct hurricane hit since Iniki in 1992, but that event permanently changed how carriers price wind risk. Learn how ASCE 7-16 wind speed zones, the pre-1994 strap divide, and percentage-of-value hurricane deductibles affect your coverage.
Read article →Hawaii's tsunami evacuation zone signs mark life-safety boundaries, not coverage boundaries — but they do affect underwriting. Learn how Zone 1 and 2 status interacts with flood insurance, what NFIP actually covers, and why coastal Hawaii properties often need multiple policies.
Read article →A roof older than 15 to 20 years can narrow your carrier options and trigger ACV-only settlements in Hawaii. Learn how carriers verify roof age using permit records, what the age thresholds mean, and why a documented roof replacement is an underwriting asset.
Read article →Opening a non-renewal letter from your homeowners insurer is one of the most stressful things a Hawaii property owner can face. But the 45-day window your carrier is required to give you is enough time to act — if you know the right sequence.
Read article →Know your property
Lava zone, FEMA flood zone, wildfire score, tsunami zone, coastline distance, roof age — every number cited to a public source. Delivered within 60 minutes for $19.
Order your Insurability Brief