By following these tips and utilizing the resources available, homeowners affected by the 2023 Maui wildfires can take steps to keep and rebuild their homes, and avoid the risk of foreclosure. It’s important to be proactive, persistent, and informed throughout the process to ensure the best outcome for you and your family.
For homeowners in Hawaii who are facing overwhelming challenges in dealing with mortgage issues or rebuilding their homes after a disaster, there are several resources available to provide assistance and guidance. Here are some key steps to take when seeking help:
1. Ask for help from a HUD-certified housing counseling agency: If you are feeling overwhelmed with your housing situation, reaching out to a nonprofit certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development can provide valuable support. You can find a HUD-certified housing counseling agency by visiting their website or contacting the Maui Long-Term Recovery Group for assistance with permitting and construction processes.
2. Explore additional resources: If you are struggling to communicate with your mortgage servicer or have questions about insurance, contacting the state Division of Financial Institutions or the state insurance division can offer valuable guidance. You can reach out to these agencies by phone or email for assistance. Additionally, before hiring contractors to rebuild your home, make sure to review the state’s tips for dealing with contractors to ensure a smooth and successful rebuilding process.
3. Stay informed and provide feedback: This information is current as of August 2025 and was compiled by Grist staff writer Anita Hofschneider. If you found this guide helpful or have suggestions for improvement, you can reach out to Anita at ahofschneider@grist.org. Your feedback is valuable in helping to enhance the resources available for homeowners in Hawaii facing challenging circumstances.
4. Download a PDF or return to The Disaster Economy: For easy access to this information, you can download a PDF of this article. Additionally, you can explore more resources and articles related to the disaster economy on the Grist website.
By following these steps and utilizing the available resources, homeowners in Hawaii can navigate through challenging situations with support and guidance to rebuild and secure their homes. Remember that help is available, and reaching out for assistance is the first step towards finding solutions to your housing and financial concerns.
