The Insurance Council of New Zealand (
ICNZ) is advising people affected by recent heavy rain and flooding to contact their insurer as soon as they’re able and be cautious with their own safety.
“When it’s safe to do so, take pictures of any flooding or weather-related damage – this will help your insurer with their assessment when you make a claim,” ICNZ chief executive
Tim Grafton said.
“If the property you’ve already photographed receives further damage, take more photos. This is especially important if you need to move damaged or contaminated goods from your house for health and safety reasons.”
Here are some tips, outlined by the ICNZ, that brokers can give to their clients:
- Do not do anything that puts your safety at risk or causes more damage to your property;
- Contact your insurer, or insurance adviser, as soon as possible;
- Try to make buildings safe and weatherproof but don’t make any emergency repairs unless it is safe to do so. Don’t start non-essential repairs without your insurance company’s approval;
- Get essential services, such as water, electricity, gas and sewerage, repaired and keep copies of any invoices;
- Take photos of damaged property to help speed up the assessments and claims process.
The West Coast District Health also advised people in flood-affected areas to seek advice from their insurance company before cleaning up or disposing of any goods.
“If you need to start before an assessor can visit, take photos and make notes before you begin,” it said. “Later, if an agreement cannot be reached with the insurance company or you have other health concerns in relation to your home post-flooding, you can seek advice from an environmental health officer.”
Other flood recovery steps residents can take to maintain safety include:
- Avoid entering flood water, either on foot or in a vehicle. Flood water can contain raw sewage and contaminants, conduct electricity and mask hidden hazards, and pose a serious hazard to health. It may be deeper or moving faster than you expect;
- If water has entered your property, don’t turn on your electricity until it has been inspected by an electrician;
- Do what’s necessary to make your home safe and sanitary. When cleaning, wear a mask, gloves and overalls to minimise exposure to possibly-hazardous materials;
- Take pictures and make a list of any perishables you have to dispose of;
- Remove and discard any water or mud-damaged goods that pose a health risk, such as saturated carpets and soft furnishings;
- Keep any damaged items that don’t pose a health and safety risk;
- Do not drive your vehicle if it has suffered water damage.
“Improving community resilience to extreme weather events is a priority. New Zealand needs to plan and adapt in ways that will reduce the impact of natural disasters because every dollar spent in pre-disaster adaptation measures saves many more after an event,” Grafton added.
Related stories:
Homeowners affected by Cyclone Fehi urged to contact EQC
Info hub assists customers following Kaiaua floods
