BY TONY JANSSEN
GIO SINGLETON
Floods and Storms can have devastating effects and ensuring that you’re adequately prepared and that you know what to do after the event has passed should be a priority for every homeowner.
Below are a few things to keep in mind that can hopefully make the recovery process a little smoother.
Of course, you should make sure that you have adequate Home and Contents Insurance. Check your Product Disclosure Statement for your policy so that you’re familiar with any conditions or exclusions.
The most important first step is to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe, and receiving any necessary practical, medical and emotional support. Your insurance company understands that sometimes their customers need extra care and support at different points in their lives. They also know that everyone’s situation and needs will be different. Insurance companies are committed to looking after your needs with sensitivity, dignity, respect and compassion.
If your home is damaged by Flood or Storm Damage, you’ll need to lodge an insurance claim. The more information about your Home and Contents that you have available, the easier this process will be.
Taking photos of damaged areas can help the claim process. If you can’t get photos, don’t stress because you can still lodge a claim.
Likewise, supporting documents such as receipts and valuation reports can help commence the claims process, but aren’t required. It can be better to get the ball rolling as soon as possible and your insurance company will let you know if any other information is required.
Ensure that your policy reflects the value of your house as accurately as possible. This is especially worth reviewing if you’ve completed any renovations, or other value-adding work, since you established your policy.
You should also have a thorough inventory of your contents, with as much supporting information as possible such as receipts and photos.
Sometimes your insurance company can assist with arranging temporary accommodation for affected home insurance customers. If you can’t live in your home after an incident covered by your policy, you may be entitled to reasonable temporary accommodation costs until your home is rebuilt or repaired. You would need to consult your Product Disclosure Statement to see if your entitled to this type of cover.
Make sure your property is safe and wait for local authorities to confirm it’s safe before you return home.
Contact your mortgage provider. Depending on the lender, they may have programs in place for those affected by Floods and Storms, including suspension of required payments.
Switch your gas and water off at the mains. This is both a safety measure and a way to ensure that you’re paying minimal bills for a house you’re not living in. Contact your utility providers. They’ll need to know about your situation, especially if you’re not going to be living in the affected house for a while.
Redirect your mail. If you’re going to be living at a different address, you should redirect your mail via Australia Post.
