Flossie Damage Report Form Due by August 2

Lightning strikes Kahului home. Photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Residents on Maui who sustained damage from the passing wind, rain and lightning from Flossie are asked to file a report with the Maui County Civil Defense Agency.

The reports, which can be filed online, or via phone at 270-7285, will help officials determine if Maui County qualifies for any state or federal assistance.

The reports must be submitted by Friday, Aug. 2, 2013.

The data will also help to ensure that the County of Maui has a complete picture of the damage caused by the July 29 storm event.

County officials say damage reports do not constitute an application for financial or other assistance. Authorities say affected parties must file claims with their insurance companies for assistance.

The Hawaiʻi State Civil Defense agency and the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs shared the following tips in the wake of Flossie’s impact over the Hawaiian Islands:

REPORT: If your home was impacted by the storm, contact your county civil defense/emergency management agency to report damages. Maui reports can be filed online, or via phone at 270-7285.

RECORD: Take pictures of any damage to your home or business. Keeping good records will help with any damage claims you make through insurance and can make it easier to qualify for aid if it becomes available.

Officials suggest that images captured of any flood water heights in your home or business should include placing an identifiable object next to water marks for scale; any wind damage with photos depicting what has blown off and where it blew off from; as well as damage to personal property such as electronics and furniture.

REVIEW: Review your insurance policy and contact your insurer. For questions, or if an insurer denies a claim you feel is covered by your policy, state officials suggest that you contact the Hawaiʻi Insurance Division at 586-2790.

State officials say, “Tropical Storm Flossie is a good reminder to check your insurance policies to ensure you are properly and adequately covered, to take pictures of your possessions and make an inventory list which will assist you in filing a claim in the event of a loss.”