Insurers Support Kiwis As Severe Weather Eases

As severe weather conditions ease across Canterbury and Wellington, New Zealanders are turning their focus to the clean-up and recovery.

The Insurance Council of New Zealand | Te Kāhui Inihui o Aotearoa (ICNZ) is encouraging people to take early steps toward recovery if it is safe to do so.

"Insurers recognise that in the early stages of recovery, many people may not be able to quickly lodge a claim," ICNZ chief executive Kris Faafoi said.

"While you should contact your insurer as soon as possible, don’t wait to take steps to reduce further damage and begin recovery if it’s safe to do so."

Some practical tips to support a faster and safer recovery include:

• Mark and photograph all affected items before moving or disposing of them.
• Carry out emergency repairs to make your home safe. Keep receipts and a record of the work completed.
• If your home is exposed to the elements, you can engage a qualified professional to install temporary protections (like a tarpaulin), provided it’s safe.
• Dispose of ruined or contaminated items that cannot be salvaged or cleaned.
• Wear appropriate protective gear and keep a detailed list of what is removed. Take photographs and retain any proof of purchase to support your insurance claim.
• Separate items that can be cleaned and do not store unsanitary belongings in your home.
• Do not remove structural elements like flooring, wall linings, or materials that could contain hazardous substances without speaking to your insurer first. Such work must be done by qualified professionals.

For homes that are uninhabitable, temporary accommodation benefits may be available under many home and contents policies and those affected are encouraged to ask their insurer about available support.

"Be assured-your insurer is ready to help as soon as you're able to get in touch to lodge a claim," Kris Faafoi said.

"Your insurer will also be the main point of contact for all claims, including those under NHCover, which they manage on behalf of the Natural Hazards Commission (NHC).

"If your property has been affected, let your insurer know. They can help organise assessments for both your home and any damaged land," Kris Faafoi said.

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