Insurers have received more than 1,600 claims in relation to the severe flooding event impacting the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions of NSW, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) said today.
For many residents across these regions in New South Wales, this weather event remains an active emergency, so safety is the number one priority.
The ICA urges residents to follow the advice of local authorities and only return to your home when it is safe to do so.
However, for those who are ready to commence clean-up, the ICA has some tips to assist in the claims process:
- Prioritise safety. Where water damage is evident, a qualified electrician should inspect the property before the electricity can be turned back on. It's also important not to drive cars that have received water damage.
- Document the damage. Where possible, document any damage with photos and videos. Make a list of damaged items, including the brand, model and serial number if you can, or keep material samples to show your assessor.
- Begin the clean-up. You don't need to wait for your insurer to assign an assessor before you can clean up. Throw away any items that cannot be repaired, particularly if they pose a health risk. However, if you believe something can be repaired, keep this item and notify your insurer when making your claim.
- Speak to your insurer. Lodge your claim as soon as you can, even if the full extent of the damage isn't yet known. You should also speak directly with your insurer before you attempt or authorise any building work
On Wednesday 21 May, the ICA declared a 'Significant Event' which has activated insurer's disaster response capabilities.
Insurers already have people stationed in communities where it is safe to do so, and more claims staff will be activated once teams can access the flooded affected areas.
Insurers have also stood up additional capabilities to prioritise claims received relating to this weather event.
Quotes attributable to ICA CEO Andrew Hall:
We acknowledge the tragic loss of life and the ongoing impact this event is having on the affected communities. We know that for some this is the second or third flood event in the last few years.
Communities are rallying together to support each other, and insurers stand ready to serve customers through the oncoming recovery period.
We expect to see more claims come through over the weekend as people return to their homes or water damage becomes obvious.
