5 FLOODING
MY PLACE FLOODED, NOW WHAT?
Homeowners and renters insurance generally do not offer protection against ood losses. Check your policy’s
exclusions; it will probably be listed under “water damage.”
Flooding includes any water or mud moving or accumulating on the outside of the home and nding its way inside.
You should consider ood insurance even if you don’t have waterfront property as ooding can happen anywhere.
Flood insurance is available under a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Private
insurers may also provide primary and excess ood coverage in Hawaii.
Water damage inside your home caused by improper maintenance may not
be covered. You can mitigate your risk by regularly inspecting your home for
signs of leaks, musty odors, and dampness around pipes and appliances that
use water. You can also install a smart water sensor that alerts you to potential
leaks similar to a re alarm.
7
If you suffer from any damages after a ood event, contact your insurance agent or company rst. Inform them
of any damages and see what may be covered. Your policy might require that you make the notication to your
insurance agent or insurer’s claim hotline within a certain time frame.
Remediation efforts could help reduce the severity of damage to your property as well. Opening windows, utilizing
fans, and drying off as much as you can as soon as possible will help to reduce the chance of mold. Be cautious of
foundational damage, and if outside, stay away from moving water.
WHAT ABOUT FLOOD DAMAGE TO MY CAR?
Your homeowners or renters insurance wouldn’t cover any damages to your car regardless if it was parked on your
property or in your garage. Motor vehicle insurance may cover it if you have comprehensive or other-than-collision
coverage. This is separate from the required coverages you need to legally drive your car.
Comprehensive coverage pays, subject to your deductible, for losses to your car caused by theft, re, windstorm,
ood, falling objects, and vandalism. However, it does not cover personal property that is lost or damaged in
your vehicle. Comprehensive or other-than-collision coverage is limited to the value of your car at the time of the
accident or loss. Ask your agent or insurer if this coverage is right for you.