There are obvious perils of living in an area prone to volcanic activity. Since the 1970's, the U.S. Geological Survey has produced a map of Hawaii Island identifying each geographic area's lava risk. Leilani Estates is rated at the highest possible risk level. That makes homeowners insurance expensive and difficult to obtain for landowners, leading some to eschew protection.

The Conversation's Catherine Cruz spoke with state insurance commissioner Gordon Ito about the latest eruption on the Big Island and what homeowners and renters should know.