Just 4 months since flooding wreaked havoc in NSW and QLD, heavy rain is causing extensive flooding in eastern NSW. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this devastating event. Safety is a priority, so please continue to follow the advice of your local authorities and only return to your property if it has been deemed safe. Here are some actions to help you secure your property and limit further damage*.
TIPS TO MINIMISE LOSSES IF YOUR PROPERTY HAS BEEN DAMAGED
In the aftermath of flooding, we encourage you to call your broker ASAP, and take the following steps:
BE VIGILENT and if in doubt, wait for emergency services to attend the property.
IF WATER HAS ENTERED THE PROPERTY do not switch on the electricity until an electrician has undertaken checks.
AVOID BLACK WATER – this is unsafe, contaminated water and must be left to the experts.
DO NOT MOVE FALLEN TREES/BRANCHES – fallen branches or trees could be hiding live wires.
LIVE WIRES – if live wires are present, maintain a safe distance and wait for an electrician or your power company to address the issue.
DRY OUT WET AREAS – contact a restoration expert to extract water and commence the drying process (i.e., removal of wet carpets and installation of blowers, dehumidifiers, etc.).
IF YOU BELIEVE YOU MAY HAVE AN INSURANCE CLAIM
CONTACT YOUR BROKER
PREPARE AN ITEMISED LIST of damage and take photographs to support your claims process.
DISPOSE OF SPOILT AND DESTROYED ITEMS – again, it’s important to take photographs.
KEEP ANY ITEMS THAT CAN BE REPAIRED. If in doubt, speak to your broker.
OBTAIN QUOTES to repair damaged items, which will help in the claims process too.
EMERGENCY REPAIRS
If your property requires emergency repairs to prevent further damage/loss, we recommend you take steps to do so. You may also contact the following approved panel assessors and repairers if you require assistance or guidance:
JOHNS LYNG GROUP
Emergency contact Ph: 1300 73 6000 (24 hours)
Email: reception@johnslyng.com.au
BAY BUILDING GROUP
Emergency contact Ph: 1300 766 216 (24 hours)
NSW Email: nsw@baybuilding.com.au
ADVANCED BUILDINGS
Emergency contact Ph: 1300 878 687 (24 hours)
NSW Email: operationsnsw@advancedbuildings.com.au
With more extreme weather expected, please continue to follow the advice of your local authorities and stay safe.
Maja Vujinovic
Head of Risksmart
maja.vujinovic@risksmartclaims.com.au
*Please note that this list is not exhaustive. This information is general in nature and does not take your personal circumstances into account.