Tie down trampolines, fasten outdoor furniture, says AA Insurance

Auckland, 9 July 2014 – AA Insurance is urging homeowners to tie down their trampolines, and fasten their outdoor furniture to prevent damage or injury as high winds and heavy rain continue to lash the country.

Suzanne Wolton, AA Insurance Head of Customer Relations, said, “During each storm we have a number of preventable claims related to trampolines and other outdoor equipment flying over to the neighbours’ and damaging their property, or creating havoc on our customers’ properties. This storm is no different, with the upper North Island taking a battering overnight, and more wild weather anticipated to move down the country today.

“To avoid these types of incidence be sure to store away or secure items that may move during a storm, such as garden equipment, outdoor furniture and sports gear such as trampolines. In the past we’ve had claims whereby these types of large objects have ended up damaging cars, fences, and even the neighbours’ roofs and guttering. We want people to avoid this kind of damage to property, or worse, an injury to themselves or others.”

There have also been substantial power outages reported, so it’s a good idea for customers to check their electrical appliances and turn off anything unnecessary before the power goes back on. If you are affected by the storm AA Insurance advises customers to contact their insurer as soon as possible to make a claim, especially if they need emergency repairs.

In the meantime, homeowners should make preparations for their belongings and home. With significant high gusts and rain warnings forecast for later today it’s vital that any urgent repairs to keep homes watertight and safe are carried out as soon as possible.

“Now’s a good time to check your property, and secure anything that could cause damage to parts of your, or your neighbours’, property,” said Suzanne.

AA Insurance advises its customers to:
• Secure or move your outdoor furniture inside
• Unplug appliances which may be affected by electrical power surges. If power is lost unplug major appliances
• Pull curtains and drapes over windows to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass
• Do not attempt to repair any damage until it is safe to do so
• If there is water in your light fittings, turn your lights off and call an electrician immediately
• If it is safe to do so, place a tarpaulin over any areas where the roof is leaking
• If the floors are wet, lift your furniture off the floor to prevent staining
• Keep your damaged items if you can or take photos – this is useful to confirm what needs replacing
• Call 0800 500 216 as soon as possible to report any damage to your property especially if you need emergency repairs.

About AA Insurance
AA Insurance Limited launched in 1994 and is a joint venture between the New Zealand Automobile Association and Vero New Zealand, which is part of the Suncorp Group. We employ around 580 staff to look after 320,000 customers and around 580,000 car, home and contents policies.

AA Insurance has been consistently recognised by Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands (since 2011), NZ Direct Insurer Award (since 2012), Kenexa Best Workplaces Survey (since 2008), and Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers (since 2011).

We proudly support youth charity Blue Light, and the Holden Cup and NRL Telstra Premiership referees in New Zealand.

AA Insurance has an A+ (Strong) Insurer Financial Strength Rating given by Standard and Poor’s (Australia) Pty Ltd. For further information visit www.aainsurance.co.nz.

ENDS

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