When it comes to quake damage, sometimes there's more than meets the eye.

Usually, a temblor's impact is immediate and obvious. But that's not always the case.

That's why it's sensible for homeowners to assess property damage carefully.

The lesson comes after initial walk-throughs on the Big Island by county inspectors and Federal Emergency Management Agency assessors. As they documented cases to see what federal relief Hawai'i will qualify for, inspectors uncovered damage they didn't initially see.

Residents statewide should also be vigilant about looking for signs of hidden damage that can affect everything from electrical and plumbing systems, to the structural integrity of homes.

And with a significant number of homes built using pier-and-post construction, sudden shifts could cause uneven distribution and stress on the main structure.

Building experts note that stress fractures can also occur anywhere from support columns, to window and door frames and can sometimes indicate a more significant structural problem.

In Honolulu, the city will send a building inspector to determine if damage represents a safety hazard. They also can determine whether a structural engineer or contractor should be called in. Call 523-4505 for details.

If damage is significant, you may qualify for FEMA funds.

In any case, consulting a building inspector or structural engineer will help ensure there are no surprises down the road.