The government's national disaster insurance scheme for homes is due to start 16 September. Households pay no premium and need not register; eligibility follows household registration records, and condos are covered. Payouts only follow a major disaster that the government officially declares a public disaster zone; ordinary flooding is not covered. Legal setup of the disaster funds could take at least two years. Small business owners should check whether their home or shophouse is on a registered household record, and not assume ordinary flood damage will be compensated.