Batten down the hatches as storm moves north

Batten down the hatches as storm moves north, says AA Insurance

Auckland 5 March 2014 AA Insurance is advising Canterbury customers affected by yesterdays severe storm weather to contact them as soon as possible to make a claim, especially if they need emergency repairs.

AA Insurance has already received around 20 claims for flood and storm damage to homes and contents, and half a dozen for vehicles, and is expecting this to more than double by the end of the day, says Suzanne Wolton, AA Insurance Head of Customer Relations.

However, at this stage its too early to estimate the cost of damage. The bad weather isnt over yet for the rest of the country, so any estimate is sure to rise.

The most common types of damage have been water related. Weve had garages and ground level rooms flooded, flashings have lifted off conservatories, and roof tiles have lifted or completely gone, leaving holes that have allowed water damage to ceilings and the rooms below. Weve also had vehicles damaged after getting stuck in water.

"There is no deadline to make a claim, but the sooner you let us know, the sooner we can help you. Although if you need emergency repairs in order to keep your home watertight and warm, such as mending a hole in your roof, then ring us as soon as you can, continued Suzanne. Our team is experienced in handling these weather-related claims and can give our customers the help they need to get things sorted quickly.

As the bad weather moves north, AA Insurance expects the number of claims to rise over the coming days and weeks. In the meantime, those expecting the storms to hit should make preparations for their home.

Nows a good time to check your property and repair anything that may be damaged, or could cause damage to another part of your, or your neighbours, property, says Suzanne.

During a storm we generally have a number of claims related to trampolines and other outdoor equipment flying over to the neighbours and damaging their property, or creating havoc on your own property. To avoid these types of incidents be sure to store away or secure items that may be move during a storm, such as garden equipment, outdoor furniture and sports gear such as trampolines.

Customers should also be careful driving in flooded areas, not only for their own safety and the safety of their car, but to also prevent the additional flooding of properties from the bow-wave of their vehicle.

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Batten down the hatches as storm moves north