"We've had several come in, certainly more than normal, and we expect the bulk over the next week or so," said Mike Onofrietti, vice president and actuary at AIG Hawaii, which has issued 3,200 homeowners policies in the state.

"We haven't had gusts this strong, certainly, for the last several years."

Homeowners who have filed claims related to Wednesday's storm reported roof shingles blown off, water leaking into the house and roof damage, he said.

But most of the claims should come later because the homeowners' first concern is to complete emergency repairs, then hire a contractor. Onofrietti said homeowners policies generally cover the cost of emergency repairs.

"Kaua'i got hit probably worse than here," Onofrietti said on O'ahu.

A power failure forced AIG Hawaii to close its Kaua'i offices, which suffered some damage.

The good news is that since Hurricane 'Iniki, "a good proportion of Kaua'i homeowners probably had their roofs replaced so they're now up to code and the roofs won't be as badly damaged."

Jim Gormley, vice president of underwriting at DTRIC Insurance, has seen some claims come in and expects to receive more after homeowners finish their immediate repairs. The company covers 2,800 homeowners policies in Hawai'i.

Reach Deborah Adamson at dadamson@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8088.

HECO liable for losses in some cases

Under state Public Utilities Commission requirements, Hawaiian Electric Co. is responsible for damage from a power outage if the company fails to act with reasonable diligence and care, said HECO spokesman Jose Dizon.

The damage could include items ranging from spoiled food to damaged equipment, he said.

"We'll review it on a case-by-case basis," Dizon said.

Claims for damage must be filed within 30 days of a power failure. People interested in filing claims for recent losses can call HECO's claim department at 543-4624.