Posts by FICOH
What Is Loss of Use Insurance? How It Helps When Your Home Becomes Unlivable
If your home became uninhabitable, what would you do? Before you can start thinking about repairs, you need to take care of necessities like housing, food and other day-to-day costs.…
2026 Hawaii Hurricane Season: Why Homeowners Insurance Isn’t Enough
In Hawaii, summer means hurricane season. By the time a storm is approaching, it's too late to think about insurance coverage or home upgrades. With forecasts calling for an active…
How to Avoid Predatory Towing Practices
You’re in a car crash. You’re okay, thankfully, but your car is undriveable. When a tow truck operator shows up and offers to help, you gladly accept. You don’t ask…
New Flood Maps Are Coming to Oahu
If you have a mortgage, your lender may reach out to you about new flood insurance requirements. FEMA is updating its Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for Oahu. Whether you…
Are You a Safe Driver? Reward Yourself with the Safe Roads Challenge App
Every year, tens of thousands of people die in traffic accidents. Many of these deaths could be prevented if everyone practiced safe driving habits. If you’re doing your part to…
What Makes Insurance Careers Unique? Three Reasons to Consider Insurance
If you’re looking for a stable and rewarding career path, consider a job in the insurance sector. The insurance industry is a major source of employment, and insurance careers offer…
Protecting Insurability in a World of Escalating Natural Disasters
Insurance may seem like a protection that will always be accessible, but many property owners throughout the U.S. have learned otherwise. In the face of climate change and rising natural…
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips to Protect Your Home and Business
Could your batteries start a fire? As lithium-ion batteries have become more common, a fairly rare but serious threat has emerged. Under the right (or wrong) conditions, these batteries can…
How to Serve on a Hawaii Condo Board Effectively
Do you like the way your condo association is run? By serving on your condo board, you can help guide the association and ensure that it’s managed properly. Whether you…
Understanding the Cost of Homeowners Insurance in Hawaii: Factors That Affect Your Premium
Shopping for homeowners insurance in Hawaii? Property insurance costs have been rising, and you could end up paying more than you expected. However, understanding the factors that impact your premium…
How to Read Your Insurance Policy in Three Easy Steps
Do you really know what’s in your insurance policy? If you skip over the fine print, you may not realize what’s covered until a claim comes along. Fortunately, a little…
70 Lives Lost Already: 8 Ways You Can Help Reverse This Deadly Driving Trend
When you get behind the wheel, do you feel confident, complacent or confrontational? It’s a question worth asking as Hawaii faces a sobering reality: traffic fatalities have surged nearly 50%…
Car Insurance for Hurricanes and Floods: Are You Covered?
The National Insurance Crime Bureau says more than 637,000 vehicles were damaged in Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Many of them had to be auctioned off or scrapped. Heavy rains and…
Moped Requirements in Hawaii: What Riders and Drivers Need to Know
Mopeds have become a popular transportation option for students in Hawaii. They’re a fast, convenient, and affordable way to get around – but they also come with risks and legal…
What Does the 2025 Central Pacific Hurricane Season Have in Store? How Hurricanes Are Changing
It’s time to prepare for the 2025 Central Pacific hurricane season. The hurricane season officially starts on May 15. While hurricanes are not a new threat to the region, climate…
Property Undervaluation Can Wreak Havoc with Insurance Claims
Is your home’s value understated on your homeowners insurance policy? While it may not seem like a big deal, property undervaluation could become a problem if you have to report…
How to Maintain Your Condo on A Budget
When budgets are tight, it can be tempting to skimp on maintenance and to delay seemingly minor home repairs, but it’s not a good idea. After all, your condo is…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Donates $40,000 to Aloha United Way
HONOLULU – Continuing their annual tradition of supporting Aloha United Way (AUW), First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) associates donated $23,536 to AUW through e-pledges and unique fundraising events. The…
How Does Insurance Work? Understanding Risk Transfer and Pooling
You probably own multiple insurance policies, but have you ever stopped to wonder – how does insurance work? The concept of insurance dates back thousands of years, and although the…
Health Safety After a Flood: How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
If you’ve ever lived through a flood event, you know that the impact remains long after a storm passes. In addition to the immediate dangers, floodwaters may lead to mold,…
First Insurance Vehicle Telematics Program Gains Traction with Commercial Clients
HONOLULU – With Hawaii’s roadways rated among the most dangerous in the nation, more companies are recognizing the value of vehicle telematics in increasing safety and lowering costs. In 2023,…
Renters Insurance for Water Damage: Are You Covered?
Your toilet overflows. A water pipe bursts. The roof leaks. While you deal with the mess, you wonder whether your renters insurance will cover the damage. The answer is complicated!…
How Condo Unit Owners Can Stay Informed and Protect Their Investments
In this blog post, we share proactive measures you can take to understand the condition of your building and increase your building and unit's insurability. These actions will not only…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Promotes Lance Kawano
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has promoted Lance Kawano to Senior Vice President (SVP) of FICOH effective July 1, 2024. In addition to serving as SVP, he…
7 Tips to Protect Your Property from Wildfires
Wildfire risk is increasing, but property owners are not powerless against the rising threats. By taking the time to understand your insurance and defend your property, you’ll reduce your risks.
Preparing for Sudden Disasters
Some disasters come with advance warning. Others strike with little or no notice. For unpredictable events like earthquakes or wildfires, you need to always have a solid plan and resources…
First Insurance Welcomes New Assistant Vice President of Strategic Planning
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has appointed Kenjiro (“Ken”) Kamoda assistant vice president of strategic planning, effective April 1, 2024.
Understanding Commercial Inland Marine Insurance
Commercial inland marine insurance is often a source of confusion among business owners. Even if your company’s operations have nothing to do with the sea, you may need inland marine…
How to Work Together to Improve Pedestrian Safety
Thanks to warm weather and gorgeous sights, walking is a popular pastime and a convenient mode of transportation in Hawaii. Unfortunately, crashes involving pedestrians make this healthy activity more dangerous…
Homeowners Insurance: Tips for Seniors
Whether you’ve been in your home for years or you’ve recently downsized to a new house, homeowners insurance will help protect your investment. The following homeowners insurance tips for seniors…
Insurance Industry Careers: Four Hiring Trends
The insurance industry employs more than 3 million people, according to BLS data from January 2024. Over the next decade, the insurance industry will be a source of rewarding career…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Donates $39,000 to Aloha United Way
HONOLULU – Continuing their annual tradition of supporting Aloha United Way (AUW), First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) associates donated $24,000 to AUW through e-pledges and fundraising events. The First…
First Insurance Appoints New Officer
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has promoted Cathy Migita to Assistant Vice President effective January 1, 2024.
Why Hawaii’s Aging Condos Can’t Afford to Defer Maintenance
Condo owners face increased costs and hard choices in a state that already has a high cost of living. Condo associations must proactively maintain their properties to stop the cycle…
First Insurance Company and Aiea Collision Center
In the spirit of the holiday season, First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) collaborated with Aiea Collision Center to gift a refurbished 2019 Nissan Sentra to a single mother identified…
Is Your Business Insured for Growth?
As your business grows, so will your business exposures. A robust insurance package can help you control these risks and avoid unexpected expenses. Don’t wait until you’re hit with a…
First Insurance Appoints Two New Officers
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has promoted Lance Kishimoto and Joni Nham to Assistant Vice President effective October 1, 2023.
Can a Landlord Require Renters Insurance? What Renters Need to Know
You’ve found the perfect home to rent, but the landlord says you need to buy renters insurance. You’re not sure why you need coverage and are wondering whether your landlord…
Four Tips to Reduce Risks to Your Business Vehicles
If you want to control your costs and improve safety, pay attention to your vehicles and drivers. By reducing your risks to your business vehicles, you’ll manage your workers’ compensation…
What Happens If a Friend Crashes Your Car?
Your car is damaged in a crash – but you weren’t the one driving. Now you’re wondering whether you’re going to be on the hook for the costs. Depending on…
Insurance Scam: Beware of False Agents and Fraudulent Policies
Watch out for phony insurance agents. Although the majority of insurance agents provide an honest service, there are bad apples. These false agents divert insurance premiums, leaving people without the…
Is Your Commercial Property Under-Insured?
You know how inflation is impacting your company’s bottom line, but do you know how it’s impacting your insurance coverage? Property values and construction costs can increase over time. If…
First Insurance Announces Two Leadership Appointments
Tatsuya Fujimoto Appointed Deputy CEO and Yuji Soda Promoted to Vice President of Strategic Planning
First Insurance Company Reflects on Five-Year Anniversary of Kauai and East Oahu Floods
Residents reminded to be prepared and secure adequate flood and homeowners insurance
First Insurance Recognized by the American Heart Association for Commitments to Workforce Well-Being
HONOLULU – The American Heart Association has awarded First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) national Gold level recognition for its commitments to employee health and well-being. Measured by the Association’s…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Announces Todd Takayama to Serve as President and CEO Starting April 1, 2023
Mark Yoda, Chairman and CEO, Returning to Tokio Marine
Bicycle Safety Rules for Drivers: How to Coexist with Cyclists
The roads aren’t just for cars – bicyclists also have a right to use them. Unfortunately, bicyclists are particularly vulnerable in crashes with motor vehicles. Early estimates from the NHTSA…
What is E&O Insurance? An Important Coverage for Professionals
You try not to make mistakes, but nobody is perfect. Every once in a while, a deadline might slip through the cracks or you might overlook a detail. If this…
First Insurance Promotes Todd Takayama to President
HONOLULU – As of October 1, Todd Takayama, chief underwriting officer at First Insurance Company of Hawaii’s (FICOH), has been promoted to president. Mark Yoda, who has been serving as…
First Insurance Hires New Vice President of Personal Lines
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has hired Todd Yamanaka as vice president of personal lines, overseeing the personal lines underwriting and customer service teams. Prior to joining…
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Damage?
Roof repairs can get expensive. According to Home Advisor, most homeowners spend between $378 and $1,703 on roof repair. If you actually have to replace the roof, it costs a…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Alerts the Public About Fake Auto Insurance Cards Being Sold on Maui
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) is warning consumers about fake auto insurance ID cards being sold on Maui. Fake agents are illegally selling cards listing FICOH as…
Do College Students Need Renters Insurance?
College can be an exhilarating time for young adults. While you’re busy meeting new people and learning new things, it’s also important to safeguard your personal belongings from the unique…
Do You Have the Right Insurance for Hawaii Hurricane Season?
Before hurricane season blows into Hawaii, it’s a good time to check your insurance coverages to be sure you’re adequately protected against the risk of possible damage to your home…
What Is Business Interruption Insurance?
Your business can’t stay profitable without a steady stream of revenue. When a disaster forces you to temporarily close your doors, the lost income can quickly put your company’s finances…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Reenters Hurricane Insurance Market
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd. (FICOH) has reentered Hawaii’s residential hurricane insurance market.
How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Thefts
The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system located underneath the car and serves as an emissions regulation device. Thieves target the part because it contains precious metals, is…
Diamond Engagement and Wedding Ring Insurance Options
Your engagement and wedding rings are symbols of your love. They’re also a significant financial investment. As with any high-value asset, it makes sense to protect your investment with insurance…
What to Ask Your Independent Agent When You Purchase Homeowners Insurance
The process to purchase homeowners insurance can be a stressful one for many home buyers. Your home is a complex asset, and your homeowners insurance is not a one-size-fits-all policy.…
Useful Car Insurance Terms You Need to Know
Does learning about car insurance feel like trying to understand a foreign language sometimes? It’s not just you. The insurance industry is filled with jargon, and to many people, all…
Local Companies Work Together to Donate Refurbished Cars to Two Oahu Families
HONOLULU – In the spirit of the holiday season, First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) collaborated with Aiea Collision and UNIBODY Autotech Collision Center to gift refurbished vehicles to two…
Driving at Night: Eight Safety Tips
The nights are getting longer. In addition to the poor visibility, drunk and drowsy drivers can also make driving at night especially hazardous. Keep the road safe for yourself and…
First Insurance Kicks Off the Holidays with Three Beach Cleanups on Oahu
HONOLULU – To kick off the holiday season, employees at First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd. (FICOH) swapped their annual holiday party for a community service event today, partnering with…
What General Liability Insurance Covers
If you own a business, you may have been told you need general liability insurance. Hopefully, you purchased coverage and now have the protection you need. But you may be…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Donates $50,000 to American Red Cross of Hawaii
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd. (FICOH) has donated $50,000 to the American Red Cross of Hawaii in 2021 to support the nonprofit’s emergency response efforts and Sound…
10 Tips for Protecting Your Home While You’re on Vacation
Are you planning a vacation? According to a Travel Leaders Group survey, about 70% of U.S. and Canadian respondents plan to take a vacation in 2021. Whether you’re going on…
Six Tips for Insuring Your Second Home or Vacation Home
Do you have a family vacation home or a second home? Just as you need homeowners insurance for your main home, you also need coverage for your vacation home –…
Back to School Tips for Hawaii Drivers
With thousands of students going back to school in Hawaii this month, you can expect more cars on the road. Stay zen behind the wheel by following these tips:
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Creates 1,000 Hurricane Care Packages for Kupuna
HONOLULU – With hurricane season upon us, First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) recently distributed 1,000 hurricane care packages containing nearly two tons of food to local kupuna in partnership…
First Insurance Hires New Assistant Vice President of Claims
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has hired Robert Libby as assistant vice president of claims, overseeing the liability, litigation, and property claims teams. He joined the FICOH…
Marivic Puaa Promoted to Assistant Vice President of Claims
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has promoted Marivic Puaa to assistant vice president of claims, overseeing administration and operations, effective July 1. She previously served as manager…
What’s an Independent Insurance Agent and Why Does it Matter?
Not all insurance agents work the same way. In addition to classifying agents by the type of insurance they sell – property & casualty versus life & health, for example…
Jeff Shonka to Retire as President and CEO on August 31, 2021
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) announced today that Jeff Shonka, president and CEO, will retire on August 31, 2021 after more than seven years at the helm…
Seat Belts for Dogs: Crazy or Crucial
Most dogs love sticking their heads out car windows. It’s the ultimate freedom … taking in all the sights, sounds and smells with fur, ears and jowls flapping in the…
Understanding Hurricane Deductibles
The next hurricane season is right around the corner. Will you be ready?
Hawaii Insurance Industry Adjusts to Climate Change Threats
In a recent interview with Pacific Business News, Jeff Shonka, president and CEO of First Insurance Company of Hawaii discusses the impacts of climate change on the insurance industry.
What to Do If You Inherit a Home
Losing a loved one is always overwhelming. There is so much to do as you prepare for a funeral and settle their affairs, but if you inherit a home, there…
Seven Reasons Why Insurance Careers Rock
The insurance industry offers many exciting career opportunities. If you’re looking for a new career, here are seven reasons why you should consider the insurance industry.
How to Insure Against Damages Related to Climate Change
You have a lot to think about every day. Between worries about bills, work, health, relationships and other pressing issues, you might not have a lot of time to focus…
New Home Buyers Beware: Check the Property’s Flood Risk
If you’re shopping for a home in Hawaii, you would be wise to give serious consideration to the property’s flood risk. And be warned – relying on the flood zone…
First Insurance Hires New Vice President of Claims
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has hired Yvette Barradas as its new vice president of claims.
How to Prevent and Put out Kitchen Fires
A burned dinner isn’t the worst thing that can happen when you’re cooking. Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fires. According to the NFPA, U.S. fire departments respond…
Traffic Safety: Hands-Free Is Not Risk-Free
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, texting while driving is banned in 48 states, Washington, D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and Puerto Rico. Handheld cell phone use is…
Hurricane Season Prep Tips for Hawaii Homeowners
Hurricane activity has gotten off to an early start this year. While the 2020 Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 to November 30, a tropical depression already formed…
What Happens If I’m the Victim of a Hit-and-Run?
After a crash, the drivers involved are required to stop. Unfortunately, some drivers don’t do this. Maybe they’re driving while intoxicated. Maybe they’re driving without insurance. Regardless of the reason,…
Renters Insurance 101: Is It Worth It? What Does It Cover?
You might not own your home, but you still have a lot of things worth protecting.
Save Gas With These Four Driving Hacks
Living in Hawaii comes with many pluses, but the gas prices aren’t one of them. In November 2019, the average gasoline price in Hawaii was $3.661 per gallon—which was $1.058…
First Insurance Names Todd Takayama Chief Underwriting Officer
HONOLULU – As of January 1, Todd Takayama, senior vice president at First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH), has assumed the additional title of chief underwriting officer, with executive oversight…
Holiday Season Fire Safety
The holiday season is a time for family and tradition – and, if you’re not careful – fires. Make sure you have a happy new year by avoiding house fires…
What Does “No Fault” Mean for My Car Insurance Payout?
In 2017, there were 6,452,000 police-reported crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s more than 17,000 crashes every day. These crashes are the result of various things…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Promotes Kevin Kurosu to Vice President
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has announced the promotion of Kevin Kurosu to vice president of commercial underwriting, effective October 1, 2019.
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Opens New Satellite Office in Kapolei
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) held a blessing ceremony Thursday morning for its new satellite office in Kapolei. The office is located at Campbell Square, 1001 Kamokila…
Day in the Life of an Auto Insurance Claims Adjuster
You probably don’t spend much time thinking about claims adjusters – until you need one. When that happens, you might become very curious about claims adjusters, what they do and…
The Rise of Distracted Driving and What We Can Do About It
Today, we live in a fast-paced world where multitasking is the norm. Do you ever find yourself sipping coffee on your commute to work or scrolling through your email in…
How to Prevent Water Loss in Your Condo
We couldn’t live without water, yet too much of it – especially in the wrong place – can cause major damage. Water damage is a common cause of home and…
Is It Necessary to Hire a Public Insurance Adjuster?
Your basement floods. Your kitchen catches fire. A tree falls on your roof. Good thing you have homeowners insurance. Now that you’re filing a substantial claim, however, you’re worried that…
The Pros and Cons of a Named Perils vs. All-Risk Homeowners Policy
You probably spent a lot of time picking out the perfect home. Selecting the right homeowners insurance policy also requires attention to detail. Not all policies are the same. It’s…
Anatomy of an Insurance Claim: 7 Crucial Steps
If you’re like most homeowners, you don’t give your insurance much thought … until you need to use it. One day a devastating fire, water leak, or other disaster could…
What to Do After a Car Accident
More than seven million police-reported crashes occurred in the U.S. in 2016. Even if you’re a safe driver, the odds are high that you’ll be involved in a car crash…
Should I Refinance? Six Things to Consider
After paying your bills, getting groceries and handling all the other expenses that have a way of popping up, it may seem like you never have anything left to put…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Hires Lance Kawano
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has hired Lance Kawano as vice president of FICOH and president of First Risk Management Services (FiRMS). FiRMS is a FICOH subsidiary…
First Insurance Co. of Hawaii Donates $40,000 to Hawaii Meals on Wheels
HONOLULU – First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) topped off its five-month social media campaign to celebrate and honor Hawaii’s kupuna with a $40,000 donation to Hawai‘i Meals on Wheels…
Insurance Guide for Hurricane Season
Homeowners insurance is an essential tool to help you manage risk. However, it is only the beginning of the coverage you need during hurricane season (June 1-November 30). While Homeowners…
The Dos and Don’ts of Surviving an Apartment Fire
The fire alarm goes off. You assume it’s a false alarm until you notice smoke. Your apartment building is on fire. Do you know what to do?
Everything You Need to Know to Be a First-Time Homebuyer
For years you’ve dreamed of owning your own home. Now it’s time to make that dream a reality. But there’s a lot more to buying a home than picking out…
How to Stay Zen Behind the Wheel
Do you ever get mad when you’re driving? Maybe you just mutter under your breath. Or maybe you honk your horn, yell and make rude gestures. Perhaps you even take…
Should I Get a Car? The Pros and Cons of Car Ownership
Car ownership may be headed for a decline. An AAA Foundation study found instead of rushing to the DMV on their 16th birthday, most teens in the U.S. are now…
First Insurance Co. of Hawaii Promotes Kim Ebanez to Assistant Vice President
First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) has announced the promotion of Kim Ebanez to assistant vice president, effective Jan. 1, 2018.
Five Important Steps When Buying Your First Car
You’ve decided to buy your first car. It’s an exciting prospect – so exciting that you might rush into a decision you’ll come to regret. Getting stuck with a nice…
First Insurance Company of Hawaii Introduces Travel Insurance & Funniest Family Vacation Picture Contest
In celebration of its new Travel Insurance partnership with Atlas Travel®, First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd. (FICOH) invites you to channel your inner Chevy Chase (aka Dad of the…
Your Teen Just Got Their License. Now What?
Your teen just got their driver’s license. You’re happy. You’re proud. You’re terrified. A driver’s license is a huge deal in a teenager’s life. The key to a car is…
10 Reasons to Raise Your Homeowners Liability Limits
How much homeowners liability do you need? It’s not a simple question. Homeowners liability insurance covers you in case a guest is injured in your home. Such an injury could…
Insurance Deductibles 101: What’s the Right Deductible for You?
One of the biggest decisions you face when buying any kind of insurance is choosing your policy deductible. When you have a claim, the deductible is the amount you pay…
10 Ways to Prevent Employee Theft from Robbing Your Revenues
As a business owner, you naturally want to believe your employees are trustworthy and dedicated to your company. So when one of them betrays that trust and steals from you,…
10 Ways to Make Your Business a Less Attractive Burglary Target
When you run a business, you naturally expect some bad things to happen now and then. It’s part of your risk management reality. But when someone burglarizes the business you’ve…
Hawaii Homeowners Insurance: Coverage 101
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and it’s probably the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. It’s a huge investment, and you need to protect…
Small Business Insurance: Fact vs. Fiction
As a small business owner, you have a full plate of responsibilities every day. You wear many hats, and you may even have your own personal finances tied in with…
Condo Insurance Basics
Q: What’s an HO-6 policy and what does it cover?
Ways To Prevent Home Water Damage
It may surprise you to learn that water damage, not fire, is the leading cause of loss for homeowners in Hawaii. Compounding the issue is the advanced age of many…