Hawaii Building Expert Launches Consumer Protection Initiative After Floods

Lance Luke warns homeowners to avoid unlicensed contractors and offers free recovery guides for safe rebuilding.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:49am

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Following significant flooding across Hawaii this week, forensic construction engineer Lance Luke has announced the launch of a statewide consumer protection initiative. The program is designed to assist property owners in navigating the technical requirements of flood recovery while identifying the regulatory standards for licensed contracting. The initiative includes the release of three technical guides focused on flood remediation, contractor selection, and structural integrity.

Why it matters

The period immediately following a natural disaster often sees an increase in unlicensed activity and substandard repair work. This initiative aims to ensure that the rebuilding of Hawaii's infrastructure meets current safety and building codes, protecting homeowners from potential issues like hidden structural rot and foundation failure.

The details

Luke's program includes the release of three technical guides focused on flood remediation, contractor selection, and structural integrity. These resources provide checklists for identifying "red flags" in property damage and navigating the insurance claim process for structural repairs. The announcement follows Luke's recent analysis on the ThinkTech Hawaii broadcast network, where he discussed the estimated $1 billion in damages attributed to the recent Kona Low.

  • The recent Kona Low caused significant flooding across Hawaii this week.
  • On April 3, 2026, Lance Luke announced the launch of the statewide consumer protection initiative.

The players

Lance Luke

A forensic construction engineer and Principal of Construction Management Inspection (CMI), with over 45 years of experience in building safety. He served as a consultant for the State of Hawaii Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO).

Construction Management Inspection (CMI)

A company that provides forensic construction engineering and project oversight in Hawaii.

ThinkTech Hawaii

A Honolulu-based 501(c)(3) civic engagement platform that featured Lance Luke's analysis on the recent Kona Low.

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What they’re saying

“The objective of this initiative is to ensure that the rebuilding of Hawaii's infrastructure meets current safety and building codes.”

— Lance Luke, Principal of Construction Management Inspection (CMI)

“Documentation is a critical component of a safe recovery. Validating a contractor's local business address and ensuring all agreements are captured in a written contract are essential steps in protecting property investments.”

— Lance Luke, Principal of Construction Management Inspection (CMI)

What’s next

The initiative includes the release of three technical guides focused on flood remediation, contractor selection, and structural integrity. These resources will provide checklists and guidance for homeowners to navigate the recovery process and ensure their rebuilding efforts meet safety and building code standards.

The takeaway

This consumer protection initiative aims to help Hawaii homeowners avoid the pitfalls of unlicensed and substandard repair work in the aftermath of a natural disaster. By providing technical resources and guidance, the program seeks to empower property owners to make informed decisions and protect their investments during the rebuilding process.