The Earthquake Commission (EQC) has advised Turangi residents whose homes may have been damaged in last week’s earthquakes to get in touch as soon as possible to lodge a claim.
Two earthquakes shook the Central North Island on Wednesday, September 04 - a magnitude 5.2, followed by a magnitude 4.4 just a few minutes later. GeoNet reports showed that the quakes were felt as far north as Wellington and as far south as Dunedin, with Taupo residents reporting houses “shaking badly.” Both earthquakes occurred at a shallow depth of 5km.
EQC deputy chief executive, readiness and recovery, Renée Walker says that EQC has only received six lodgements so far, and it seems as though the quakes have had a relatively low impact. However, she has urged anyone concerned about the resulting damage to contact EQC.
“We will be able to help you lodge a claim and explain the support that EQC can provide throughout the claim process,” Walker said. “Each claim is individually assessed.”
“Quakes like these are a reminder of the active land we live on,” she continued.
“There are important preparedness steps we can all take, such as fixing and fastening household items, removing hazardous chimney types and checking foundations.”
Suncorp New Zealand says it has yet to receive any claims from customers living in the affected region, and expects that the majority will go through EQC.
“The Earthquake Commission responds to residential dwelling claims up to the value of $150,000, and given the size of the Tūrangi quakes, we anticipate most customer claims from the event will fall within this limit,” a Suncorp New Zealand spokesperson told Insurance Business.
“It is possible that we may receive some claims for contents damage in the days ahead, as the Earthquake Commission stopped providing cover for contents for policies renewing from July 01 onwards this year.”
IAG is also yet to receive any claims, and advises customers with concerns to reach out to EQC in the first instance. You can lodge claims online through the EQC’s website, via email or by calling 0800 DAMAGE (326 243).
