Insurance claims after natural disasters

If you've experienced a natural disaster, contact your insurer as soon as possible for advice on repairs.

Seek their approval before you start any building work or emergency repairs, as some work might not be covered by your policy.

Keep records and photos (if possible) of any damage to your property or contents. Make a list and include a detailed description of each damaged item, including the brand, model and serial number.

Photograph and remove anything that poses a health risk, such as mud and water-soaked carpets and soft furnishings. Keep samples of the materials to show the insurance assessor when you make your claim.

Do not throw anything away if there’s a possibility it can be restored or repaired.

More information

In most cases, an insurance contract is a ‘financial product’ regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.

Get further advice on insurance matters from:

You can also seek legal information and advice.

Office of Fair Trading

Go back to Office of Fair Trading home.

Disaster alerts and support

Find out more about disasters and alerts and disaster support and recovery.