Apia urges flood and storm affected customers to contact insurer as soon as possible


Apia’s insurance tips for wet and damaged contents

Apia is urging flood and storm-affected customers along the NSW coast to contact them as soon as possible to lodge their claims.

Apia spokesperson, Angela Wilkinson said: “Customers affected by the recent floods should contact us as soon as possible. The sooner we’re notified, the sooner we can get the claims process underway.”

“Even while floods waters remain in areas, leaving some residents without access to their homes, we can still start the claims process for them now and provide immediate assistance.

“This includes providing emergency funds, temporary accommodation and arranging ‘make safe’ repairs to their homes to help prevent further damage and provide protection from the elements,” she said.

Ms Wilkinson said home and vehicles were equally affected, with home damage largely stemming from overflowing gutters, leaking roofs and flash flooding. The majority of car damage has been caused by flash flooding and light hail.

“Our main priority at this time is the safety of our customers therefore we urge residents to exercise caution as people return to their properties and flood waters begin to recede.

“Once home there are some practical things people can do with water damaged contents that will help make the claims process easier,” Ms Wilkinson advised.

Apia’s tips for wet and damaged contents:

  • If you have evacuated your home, ensure electricity and gas supplies are switched off before re-entering.
  • Do your best to dry out your home by keeping it as ventilated as possible to help prevent the quick build up of mould.
  • Get wet contents out of the house and make a list of damaged items. Take photos, if possible, and make a note of brand names/model numbers as this will help us to provide you with equivalent replacements.
  • Do not attempt to use any electrical equipment, such as fridges, televisions or toasters that have been in contact with water.
  • Throw away food that has been in contact with flood water or which has not been refrigerated. Take pictures of the fridge and its contents if possible.
  • If your carpet has been severely damaged by floodwaters you can dispose of it as keeping it can end up causing further damage, but make sure you keep a small piece to show our assessors or photograph the carpet back where the make and brand is stamped.

Apia customers can lodge a claim by calling 13 50 50 or online at www.apia.com.au.