NATIONAL INSURANCE GUIDE

First Insurance Company of Hawaii

First Insurance Company of Hawaii

First Insurance Company of Hawaii: Trusted Insurance Solutions for Hawaii Residents

First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH), founded in 1911, is one of the longest-serving local insurers in the Hawaiian market. The company provides personal and commercial insurance tailored to the unique risks of the islands, including hurricanes, flooding, volcanic activity, and coastal exposures. FICOH operates through a network of local agents and emphasizes claims service familiar with Hawaii’s geography and conditions.

Why Local Expertise Matters in Hawaii

Hawaii presents distinct insurance challenges compared with mainland markets. Higher construction costs, limited repair resources after major storms, volcanic ash and lava risks on the Big Island, and frequent tropical weather events require specialized underwriting and claims handling. A carrier with long-standing local presence can often respond more effectively to these conditions than national companies relying primarily on mainland adjusters.

FICOH holds a strong financial strength rating from AM Best (A+ Superior as commonly reported), which indicates solid capacity to pay claims. The company offers a range of personal and commercial products designed for island residents and businesses.

Core Insurance Products

Homeowners Insurance
Standard HO-3 style coverage for the dwelling, personal property, liability, and additional living expenses. Hawaii-specific considerations often include endorsements or separate policies for flood, hurricane wind, and, in certain areas, volcanic-related damage. Replacement cost provisions and ordinance-or-law coverage are particularly relevant given local building codes and material costs.

Auto Insurance
Liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, medical payments, and optional roadside assistance or rental reimbursement. Policies can be tailored for residents and, in some cases, for vehicles used in short-term rental or tourist contexts. Bundling with homeowners coverage frequently produces premium savings.

Commercial Insurance
Property, general liability, business interruption, workers’ compensation, and commercial auto coverage for small and mid-sized Hawaiian businesses. Packages are often customized for hospitality, retail, restaurants, and other island industries that face weather-related interruptions and high property values.

Specialty and Additional Coverages
Personal umbrella liability, marine/boat insurance, and cyber liability options are available for individuals and businesses with higher exposure. These products help address liability and operational risks that exceed standard policy limits.

Claims Handling and Customer Experience

FICOH emphasizes local adjusters who understand island road conditions, weather patterns, and construction practices. Claims can typically be reported by phone or through digital channels. Settlement speed depends on the complexity of the loss and the availability of contractors and materials—factors that can be more constrained in Hawaii than on the mainland after major events.

Customers frequently cite the value of working with local agents who can explain Hawaii-specific coverages and assist with policy adjustments after life or property changes.

Practical Considerations When Choosing Coverage in Hawaii

  • Review flood and hurricane wind deductibles carefully; these are often separate from the standard deductible.
  • Confirm whether volcanic ash, lava, or related perils require specific endorsements or are excluded.
  • Bundle homeowners and auto policies when possible to reduce overall cost.
  • Maintain updated inventories and photographs of property and belongings to support faster claims.
  • Work with a local agent familiar with island underwriting guidelines and available reinsurance-backed options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of insurance does First Insurance Company of Hawaii offer?
Primarily personal auto and homeowners coverage, commercial property and liability packages, and selected specialty lines such as marine and umbrella.

How do I obtain a quote or policy?
Through one of FICOH’s local independent agents or by contacting the company directly. Local agents are generally the primary distribution channel.

Does FICOH offer multi-policy discounts?
Yes. Bundling home and auto coverage is a common way to lower overall premiums.

How are claims handled?
Claims are typically managed by local or regional adjusters familiar with Hawaiian conditions. Digital reporting options are available for many policyholders.

Is the company financially strong?
FICOH carries a strong AM Best financial strength rating, reflecting its ability to meet claim obligations.

Contact Information

First Insurance Company of Hawaii
1100 Ward Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96814

Phone: (808) 527-7777
Website: www.ficoh.com

Local independent agents across the islands can provide quotes, policy service, and claims assistance.

Summary

First Insurance Company of Hawaii has served the islands for more than a century with a focus on local knowledge, personal and commercial coverage, and claims service adapted to Hawaii’s unique risks. For residents and businesses seeking an insurer with deep island experience, FICOH remains a relevant option. As with any insurance decision, compare current quotes, review policy forms and exclusions carefully—especially for natural hazards—and work with a licensed local agent to match coverage to specific property and liability exposures.

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