RACQ supports members following severe weather in SEQ

Chief Executive RACQ Insurance Trent Sayers said the insurer is triaging claims as quickly as possible ahead of more thunderstorms forecast in South East Queensland over the coming days.   

“We want to ensure members that we are actively working to provide assistance to those affected by these destructive storms,” Mr Sayers said.   

“We have already deployed additional resources online and, on the phone, to help impacted members begin the recovery process. 

“From next week, we will also have additional team members in RACQ’s Beenleigh store.  

“As soon as it is safe to do so, we encourage members to lodge their claim online or via phone on 13 72 02.” 

“Making notes and taking photos of any belongings or assets that may have been damaged will make it easier to lodge a claim if required,” Mr Sayers said.  

“With more storms predicted, we encourage Queenslanders to stay across weather alerts and do any last-minute preparations around their homes. 

“Ensuring your emergency kit is restocked, loose items around the home are secured and your car is parked undercover are steps you can take between now and when the next storm hits.”  

Mr Sayers also advised members to be vigilant against scammers, known as ‘disaster chasers’ after severe storms.  

“After storms, scammers known as "disaster chasers" sometimes target homeowners by offering repair services for cash and claiming they represent an insurer,” he said.   

“Keep in mind that a tradesperson or builder will never visit your home without your insurance company notifying you first. 

“If you're unsure, always ask tradespeople to show identification and contact your insurer before agreeing to any repairs.” 

How to prepare an insurance claim 

If you can 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. Make sure you take pictures before throwing these items away.
• 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. 

Tips for identifying a disaster chaser: 

• An insurer will not send a tradesperson or builder to your home without notifying you 
  and providing you with details 
• Speak to your insurer before agreeing to any repairs or rebuilding work to make sure 
  your insurer will cover the work 
• A tradesperson or builder who is working for your insurer will not ask you for payment 
• If in doubt, ask for identification such as a builder’s licence or driver’s licence, and ring 
  your insurer to check 
• If you sign a contract with a disaster chaser, you have a statutory 10-day cooling-off 
  period. Your insurer can help you end the relationship with the disaster chaser