The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has confirmed insurers have so far received more than 1,380 claims as a result of bushfires that have been impacting Victoria since January 7th.
The claims include property, commercial, motor and business interruption losses, with early indications suggesting 30% of all current property claims are total losses.
“These bushfires remain an active emergency for some parts of Victoria, so community safety remains a priority,” said ICA Deputy CEO, Kylie Macfarlane.
“The road to recovery for impacted communities will be a long one and insurers stand ready to support communities in this process.
“While claims continue to be lodged, I would encourage any policyholders who’ve been impacted to get in touch with their insurer to lodge a claim, even if they haven’t returned home and don’t yet know the full extent of the damage.”
Several insurers and ICA representatives have established a presence at the Castlemaine Recovery Centre from today to assist locals in the claims process.
Customers who have been impacted by the bushfires are encouraged to get in touch with their insurer to commence the claims process, even if they don’t yet know the full extent of the damage.
The ICA has the following tips for impacted residents:
- Safety is the priority – don’t do anything that puts anyone at risk. If you were directed to evacuate your property, only return to your property when emergency services give the go ahead.
- 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.
More information about what impacted policyholders should do and how to go about the claims process can be found on the ICA website.
