Consumer Action managing lawyer Philippa Heir said after assuring the safety of themselves and their families, victims should look at their insurance claim as soon as possible.
Ms Heir said disasters often brought out the best and the worst in people, and shonky business operators offering ‘help’ could “take you to the cleaners, so watch out”.
She provided some tips for people whose homes had been impacted by the floods.
First, contact your insurer to make a claim. Coverage may be available for flood damage under home and contents insurance, as well as motor vehicle insurance.
Ms Heir recommends making a list of damaged items, take photos and keep anything that can be fixed, unless it is unsafe to do so, such as with some electrical appliances.
See if your insurance coverage provides any additional benefits, such as emergency or temporary accommodation or debris removal cover.
And finally, Ms Heir warns to be wary of businesses offering to help you with your claim for a fee.
Once the claim is under way, she says you should consider if any cash settlement offer will really be enough and get legal advice about any claim issues.
Be aware that you can delay or decline a proposed settlement and, if dissatisfied with the insurance offer or service, you can make a complaint direct to your insurer.
If you make a complaint, the insurer must respond within 30 days. If you are not happy with its response, you can lodge a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority.
For information about making a claim, visit https://insurancelaw.org.au/factsheets/flood-insurance-guide-factsheet/
For information about returning to your damaged property, visit https://insurancecouncil.com.au/resource/returning-to-your-property-after-flood/
For further help, phone the Insurance Legal Service on 1300 663 464 or Disaster Legal Help Victoria on 1800 113 432.
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