Guidance on Post-Fire Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts

The devastating wildfires that swept through Hawaii’s westernmost island have left behind a trail of destruction that has destroyed more than 2,200 homes and buildings and killed dozens of people. Many businesses and residents have been forced to evacuate and may have suffered significant losses as a result of this tragic event. Fortunately, experienced Maui fire lawyers can provide guidance on the insurance recovery process and help clients maximize their available insurance coverages.

Amid skepticism about officials’ response to the disaster, the head of Hawaii’s emergency management agency resigned Thursday — just one day after defending the decision not to sound the island’s disaster sirens. Herman Andaya said he was leaving to focus on his health. The resignation came as the death toll rose to 111 and searchers shifted their efforts beyond the charred remains of Lahaina.

In the meantime, President Biden is visiting the island to meet with emergency responders, survivors, and community members and survey the damage from the blazes. He also announced that additional federal disaster funding was being made available for Hawaii and will allow the state to cover all eligible expenses for debris removal and emergency protective measures.

Do Maui Fire Lawyers Offer Guidance on Post-Fire Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts?

The statewide fire and public safety agency, Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HEMA), is working with federal agencies to coordinate the effort to support the survivors of this tragedy. Hundreds of local volunteers are helping to clean up communities and restore cultural and historic landmarks in the devastated areas.

Some displaced residents have been warned to be wary of predatory offers to purchase their homes, and the governor has asked his attorney general to work toward a moratorium on land sales in Lahaina and elsewhere on the island. Green said he wants to ensure that non-residents do not exploit the situation by using the tragedy as an opportunity to acquire Hawaiian land.

wildfire lawyer

In the business world, affected businesses are looking for ways to recover from the costs of repairing, rebuilding, and lost revenue caused by the fires. Depending on the extent of their losses, business owners may be able to pursue claims for financial compensation under their commercial property insurance policies. These policies may include first-party property, general business interruption, commercial auto, inland marine, cargo, marine/vessel, builder’s risk, and throughput insurance policies. Additionally, some businesses may have supplemental loss of business income or business interruption coverage under their commercial general liability insurance. For those whose losses are not covered by their insurance, qualified Maui fire lawyers can investigate the possibility of filing a lawsuit to seek compensation. To learn more about your options for recovery, please contact our firm today. We offer free consultations. We look forward to hearing from you.