Hawaii Calls For Vigilance In Contracting Hiring Amid Maui Wildfire Aftermath

Homeowners, especially those affected by the Maui wildfires, are urged to exercise caution and prioritize hiring licensed contractors for rebuilding and repair projects. Hiring licensed contractors ensures safety, adherence to building codes, and proper permit acquisition.

The Maui wildfires destroyed an estimated 3,971 properties. Insurers paid out approximately $1.23 billion in combined residential property and personal motor vehicle losses.

According to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, incidents of cold-calling landowners and even visiting homeowners door-to-door attempting to take advantage of their vulnerability have been reported. Moreover, the department receives hundreds of tips and complaints regarding unlicensed contractors who did projects poorly or took money but did not do any work at all.

There are penalties for unlicensed contractor work such as fines, imprisonment and injunctive relief. To enhance penalties, this legislative session introduced Senate Bill 2977 which will require violations to be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000, imprisonment up to a year, or both, for unlicensed contracting caused by a natural disaster proclaimed as a state of emergency.

As a homeowner, here are ways to ensure the safety of your home reconstruction.

– Verify the contractor’s license by visiting www.businesscheck.hawaii.gov. This online tool provides information on licensed contractors, electricians, and plumbers about license status, classifications, proof of insurance and records of complaints.

– If you want to see a comprehensive list of licensed contractors, visit http://licensedcontractor.hawaii.gov

– There are specific types to choose from to find the right contractor. General Engineering (type A) for specialized engineering projects. General Building (type B) for structures. Specialty (type C) for specific skills like electric work or roofing.

– If you find a contractor offering projects without a license, report it to the Regulated Industries Complaints Office at 808-587-4272 or online at cca.hawaii.gov/rico/file/.