Episode 175: Davis Pitner from DPP on storm damage, avoiding scammers, and the success of CivCheck

On this week’s episode of the One O‘ahu Podcast, Davis Pitner, Public Information Officer for the City’s Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), joins host Brandi Higa to talk about damage assessments and emergency repairs following a series of storms that have impacted O‘ahu residents and businesses, how to avoid scammers, and what you need to know about CivCheck.

Storm Damage on O‘ahu

The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) conducted residential damage assessments in areas impacted by Tropical Storm Lala. More than two dozen DPP inspectors visited affected properties to document storm-related damage and help determine the extent of impacts to residential structures.

These assessments are a critical part of the disaster recovery process. Information collected through damage assessments will help determine the scope and severity of the disaster and supports efforts to seek federal disaster assistance, including potential funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

For information on residential or business damage assessments, visit https://www.honolulu.gov/dpp/tropical-storm-lala-rebuilding-guidelines/

Avoiding Scammers

Following the recent storms, residents may see DPP inspectors in neighborhoods and around damaged properties across O‘ahu. If residents are unsure whether someone is an authorized DPP inspector, they should ask to see the inspector’s official identification badge.

“Slow down and verify who you’re dealing with,” added Pitner. He goes on to say, “we saw some scams coming in of people trying to act like inspectors… most recently, we saw an email of someone asking for a wire transfer…we will never ask for a wire transfer.”

DPP inspectors conducting damage assessments will never ask residents for payment or fees. They will also never ask for personal or financial information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account information, credit card numbers or passwords.

CivCheck

On September 1, 2026, DPP began requiring applicants to utilize the CivCheck Guided AI pre-application process before submitting their permit application for eligible residential projects.

For more information about CivCheck, eligibility requirements, or to request a free account, visit the Department of Planning and Permitting’s CivCheck webpage.

Create a CivCheck account: https://www.honolulu.gov/dpp/create-a-civcheck-account/

Get started with CivCheck: https://www.honolulu.gov/dpp/getting-started-with-civcheck/

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