Source: Insurance Council of NZ
As storms continue to impact much of the North Island, insurers are prioritising those most affected, want to remind customers that claims can be lodged through insurers’ websites as well as by telephone and be transparent about the claims handling process for large events.
“If you are homeless or otherwise vulnerable as a result of the storms, don’t hesitate to call your insurer. These types of claims will be prioritised.” said Insurance Council of New Zealand Te Kāhui Inihua o Aotearoa (ICNZ) Chief Executive, Tim Grafton. “If your claim is minor, think about using your insurers’ website to lodge your claim.”
Insurers are well prepared to deal with emergencies and have all available staff working to help customers. It is normal for those who are vulnerable or most in need, such as those whose homes are no longer habitable, to be prioritised and for phone lines to be busy in an emergency.
All available assessors are already working to get out to do initial assessments, working with local authorities where necessary. In some cases, there are access and safety considerations that slow the assessments down.
“As we have seen after other large-scale events, we know that there will be high demand for tradies, building materials, household goods and vehicles over the coming months,” added Tim. Insurers will do what they can to prioritise those in greatest need, especially those who won’t be able to move home or re-open their businesses before repairs are done. As such, many minor repairs, or the supply of replacement goods, will, in some cases, take longer than normal.”
Insurance flood and storm recovery advice:
– Continue to follow the instructions of Civil Defence and emergency services providers
– Do not do anything that puts your safety at risk or causes more damage to your property
– Contact your insurer as soon as you can
– Avoid entering flood water, either on foot or in a vehicle. Flood water can contain raw sewage and contaminants, conduct electricity and mask hidden hazards, and poses a serious hazard to health. It may be deeper, or moving faster, than you expect
– Try to make buildings safe and weatherproof but don’t make any emergency repairs unless it is safe to do so. Don’t start non-essential repairs without your insurance company’s approval
– If water has entered your property, don’t turn on your electricity until it has been inspected by an electrician
– Get essential services, such as water, electricity, gas and sewerage, repaired and keep copies of any invoices
– Do what’s necessary to make your home safe and sanitary. When cleaning, wear a mask, gloves and overalls to minimise exposure to possibly-hazardous materials
– Take pictures and make a list of any perishables you have to dispose of
– Photograph, remove and discard any water or mud-damaged goods that pose a health risk, such as saturated carpets, soft furnishings or food
– Take photos of any other damaged property to help speed up the assessments and claims process
– Mark, and take a photo of where flood water reached its highest within your property
– Keep any damaged items that don’t pose a health and safety risk
Do not drive your
vehicle if it has suffered water damage
