Insurance companies have begun placing moratoriums for new policies in areas affected by the ongoing lower Puna eruption.

Gordon Ito, state insurance commissioner, said residents should still be able to get insurance through the Hawaii Property Insurance Association, which he described as the “insurer of last resort,” after he issued an order cancelling that organization’s moratorium.

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He said he didn’t know exactly how large the moratorium areas were for other insurers. Changes to policies might be affected as well.

Ito said HPIA can still use a six-month waiting period before new policies take effect.

So far, the eruption has destroyed 36 structures, including 26 homes, in Leilani Estates on Kilauea’s East Rift Zone.

Ito said homes that burn down because of lava most likely are covered by policies with fire coverage. Exceptions might be made if the lava and damage is classified as an “earth movement,” which some policies might not cover.

Ito said that might only be an issue if the eruption destroys or damages a home without setting it on fire.

He said residents should check their policies and contact his office for any complaints.

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Ito said Friday he has not received any complaints yet.

His office can be reached at 586-2790.