Insured losses as a result of the devastating bushfires that have been burning through parts of Victoria since 7 January are estimated to have reached more than $200 million across 3,123 claims, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) said today.
This claims count includes property, motor, commercial and business interruption claims, with an estimated 30 per cent of property claims estimated to be total losses.
Insurers are prioritising claims from Victorians impacted by the bushfires. Claims are expected to continue to be lodged as access is restored and home and business owners return.
To date, insurers have had a presence in Castlemaine, Harcourt, Natimuk, Seymour, Skipton and Yea to support impacted policyholders through the claims and recovery process and will look to move into other areas once it is safe to do so.
For those who have damage and are yet to make a claim, the ICA has the following tips:
- Do not be concerned if you can't find your insurance papers. Insurers have electronic records and need only your name, address and date of birth.
- If your home is unsafe, notify your local authorities and check with your insurer about whether you can claim temporary housing expenses.
- Take photos or video of damage to your property and contents, including possessions, to support your claim.
- Speak to your insurer before undertaking any clean-up activities. This includes before you attempt or authorise any building work, including emergency repairs, noting unauthorised work may not be covered by your policy.
Quotes attributable to ICA CEO Andrew Hall:
While insurers are continuing their strong focus on Victoria, safety is the upmost priority.
These bushfires very much remain an ongoing event and I encourage Victorians to follow the advice of emergency services.
Being here on the ground, you can understand the true scale and impact of these fires, and the devastation it has caused.
Insurers are working hard to support impacted customers and are already making plans to revisit Victoria for face-to-face consultations in coming weeks.
