Avoid future issues with your insurance claims

Cyclone aftermath - avoid future issues with your insurance claims

Karen Stevens, Insurance & Savings Ombudsman, advises people affected by Cyclone Lusi to call your insurance company as soon as possible, ideally before you clean up the damage.

“We’ve seen many cases where people have cleaned up after a disaster like this, thrown the damaged items away, then had difficulty proving that the items were damaged," says Karen.

“We understand it’s a stressful time, but by calling your insurance company as soon as possible, you could avoid problems later. Think about what you will need to make your insurance claim.”

Karen says the things people can do to help themselves include:

1) Call your insurer before you start your clean up. Ask them what documentation they will need for your claim before you start and before you throw anything away. Ask your insurer to confirm this information in an email or letter.
2) Read your policy to ensure you know what you are and are not covered for.
3) Document the damage. We suggest people take photos or videos of your house and any damage to your belongings.
4) Make lists of all the damaged items and take photos before you dispose of them.

See the ISO website: www.iombudsman.org.nz

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