Chief Executive Insurance Trent Sayers said key resources, including the Mobile Member Centre, were deployed to nearby areas earlier this week to ensure members and the local community would be supported as soon as possible.

“Safety is the number one priority and I urge the community to stay safe over the coming days and follow the advice of emergency services,” Mr Sayers said.

“If you need urgent help, call your local SES on 132 500 and if you see an electrical risk call Energex on 13 19 62.”

Importantly, Mr Sayers said RACQ had multiple teams ready to support and assist members, while still progressing claims from the recent severe weather events across Queensland.

“We have both property and motor assessors on standby and our supply chain is well-equipped to respond to the anticipated impact and claim volumes,” he said.

“Our Mobile Member Centre is expected to be on the ground from Monday to help members lodge claims and answer any questions they may have.

“We want to reassure members that storm, cyclone, storm surge and flood damage is covered as standard for our members with Comprehensive Car Insurance and Home and Contents Insurance.

“When it’s safe and people can assess the damage, members have the option to lodge their claim online and upload photos of damage via the online portal, or you can call us on 13 72 02.”

As one of Queensland’s largest insurers, RACQ was well prepared to manage a large weather event.

“For members whose homes have been severely damaged, we can arrange emergency make-safe work or organise temporary accommodation. We can also provide cash payments for members to make emergency purchases,” Mr Sayers said.

“We are committed to being a dependable partner for the affected communities by moving quickly and offering the support they need to recover.”

Preparing your claim:

If you are able to safely return to your home:

• Making notes and taking photos of your belongings will make it easier to submit any claims
• It’s OK to throw away all spoiled food in your refrigerator- you don’t need to wait for an assessor to visit your home. Take a picture
• Keep a record of model numbers or serial numbers of items you are throwing away to help us replace them
• It’s OK to remove material and fabrics such as carpets if they are wet to avoid mould growing. Take a photo to help with replacement
• Make a list of essentials you will need to replace, such as bedding, clothing and food. Keep all receipts from these purchases
• Remember safety is the number one priority.

Image Source - ABC News: Victoria Pengilley