Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology is predicting 11 tropical cyclones could form this season.
Queenslanders know first-hand the devastation a major weather event such as a cyclone can bring. Many homeowners are aware of the need to be prepared by having emergency kits & evacuation plans prepared, keepsakes packed, and homes cleared of debris.
But being “claim ready” is also a task worthy of your time.
Taking a few extra precautions can help to reduce stress in the unfortunate case an insurance claim needs to be lodged, and thinking about what information you can gather, may also help to fast track your claim.
Here are 5 Claim Ready tips for you to consider:
1. Check your policy is up to date
Now is the time to review the details of your policy. Check what you are covered for and ensure your policy’s inclusions are up to date and match your needs. Perhaps you built an extension after you purchased the policy and haven’t told your insurer? Also check your sum insured accurately reflects your replacement or rebuild costs. And that interested parties such as your partner can discuss your policy should you not be available.
2. Have your policy details on hand
In addition to important documents such as passports and birth certificates, make sure you pack a copy of your insurance documents if you need to evacuate your home. Having hard copies on hand, as well as easy access to digital copies, will make them easier to refer to if you need to speak to your insurer. Some insurers can verify you with specific personal details or security questions, check what your insurer does.
3. Document what you can
When it comes to insurance claims, your mobile phone is your friend. Take photos of all major features of your home, including valuable possessions before an event. These can then be cross referenced with photos or video you take following damage from an event. Also track down any receipts for larger items, in case you need to prove their value. Serial numbers, warranties, owners manuals or bank statements may also be useful when talking to your insurer.
4. Understand your insurer’s claims process
For some, a major event will be their first experience with making an insurance claim, which can be overwhelming and daunting. Knowing what to expect at each stage of the claims process can help you be prepared and reduce any uncertainty. Sure Insurance has developed a helpful guide to the claims process for its policyholders for this exact reason.
5. Consider your options
Finally, take the time to start thinking about where you would go if you had to evacuate your home. As there is a housing shortage, temporary accommodation options may be limited and it is important for you to understand your needs and know your options, so you can act quickly.
Keen to know more?
These informative resources may be what you need:
Useful Resources
- Sure Insurance Claims Customer Journey Guide
https://sure-insurance.com.au/claims/ - Contents and House rebuild calculator
https://insurancecouncil.com.au/consumers/calculators/ - Planning for emergencies in Queensland
https://www.getready.qld.gov.au/ - BOM Australian Long Range Tropical Cyclone Forecast
http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/cyclones/australia/ - Sure Insurance Temporary Accommodation Guide
https://sure-insurance.com.au/claims/
