Universal Insurance Writing P/C in Hawaii

Universal Insurance Holdings Inc., a vertically integrated insurance holding company, said its subsidiary Universal Property and Casualty Insurance Company (UPCIC), has received approval from the insurance division of Hawaii's Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to write property and casualty insurance in the state of Hawaii.

UPCIC intends to file for approval for its rates and forms with the insurance division of Hawaii's Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs by the end of the fourth quarter with the anticipation of writing new business in the beginning of 2009.

Bradley Meier, president and chief executive officer, commented, "With the approval to write property and casualty insurance in Hawaii, UPCIC continues with its plans for geographic expansion beyond Florida. We are very excited to have been approved by Hawaii and UPCIC looks forward to meeting the property and casualty needs of its citizens."