Published: 24 October 2024
Helping you navigate claims with ease
Life is full of surprises, and sometimes that means dealing with insurance claims. Here are some handy tips to help you navigate the claims process smoothly.
It’s essential to understand what your insurance policy covers including your deductibles and excess. Knowing your excess will help you avoid surprises when you need to make a claim.
This way, you’ll also have a better understanding about how much you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in, and your excess may even influence whether you decide to make a claim (especially for smaller amounts).
To prepare your home and vehicles to withstand a storm or flood and to keep you safe, we’ve shared some proactive steps:
- Keep your gutters clean: It’s important to clear out any debris from your gutters regularly, especially before a storm is forecast. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and overflow.
- Secure outdoor furniture and decor: Make sure to secure these items before a storm hits, either by bringing them inside or by tying them down.
- Park your car in a garage: If possible, park your car in a garage or carport to protect it from hail, falling branches, and other storm-related debris. If a garage isn’t available, consider using a heavy-duty car cover.
- Avoid parking your car under trees: Try to park your car in open areas away from trees, as branches can break and fall during a storm.
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts so you can move your car to a safer location and prepare your home in advance.
- Regular vehicle maintenance: Keep your car in good working order, as regular maintenance can help prevent issues that may be worsened by storm conditions.
Your safety is our top priority. If a storm or flood is forecast, here are some safety guidelines to follow:
- Treat all flood water as contaminated.
- Provided it is safe to do so, ensure valuables, appliances and furniture are elevated off the floor and salvage any items that might be able to be repaired.
- Do not operate any vehicles or electrical appliances that may have been damaged. For example, if your vehicle has been submerged in water, there may be silt and debris in the engine.
- Do not make any non-essential repairs to your home.
- If you’re in the car during the storm, find a safe place to pull over and wait until the storm passes.
- If your car is not safe to drive, please arrange for your car to be towed to your local repairer.
- Please provide clear photos and/or videos of the damage.
- Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company and repair shop. Save receipts for any expenses related to the damage.
We’re here to help. Our locally based Claims Advisers will manage your claim from start to finish to help ensure the best possible outcome.
If you need any assistance or support with your claim, please call us on 0508 768 428.