Home Insurance claims - am I covered?
Every Home Insurance claim is unique and based on individual circumstances. The easiest way to find out if you're covered is to start a claim and we can confirm if the incident is covered by your policy.
To help you get the most out of your policy, here are some of the common queries we get about Home Insurance cover and some easy to understand guidelines. There are also tips about how to maintain your property so that the risk of damage or having to make a claim is made less likely.
Roofs and Gutters
An example of this is roof damage. If your roof hasn’t been reasonably maintained and this has contributed to the damage you want to claim for, you might not be covered.
Tips:
As part of your regular maintenance, especially before storm season between October and March, you should regularly:
- Look for any loose tiles, or light that may be coming through inside the roof space
- Check your roof, especially after hail storms
- Clean your gutters and downpipes - make sure they’re free of anything blocking them
- Check gutter guards if you have them, and keep them clear
If you’re not sure, ask a roofing specialist to help you.
Bathroom Leaks
Small water leaks around your shower, bath or toilet may not seem like a significant issue - but they can become one. That water has to go somewhere - usually into your floors and walls causing deterioration over time.
If you’re claiming for damage caused by seals that haven’t been maintained, you might not be covered.
Tree Damage
You’re covered for damage caused by the impact of trees to your home, but not damage caused by tree roots or removal of trees. If trees are not checked regularly and cause damage because they’re diseased, then you might not be covered.
Neighbours trees
Trees that are blown over in storms onto your property, due to strong winds and rain softened soil, are not the responsibility of the tree owner. So you’ll need to claim on your policy.
Checking trees
It’s important to regularly check for sick or dying trees on your property to prevent damage.
Tips:
Sick or dying trees show a number of symptoms:
- Poor structure and poor shape - leaning to one side
- Dead leaves and branches that can easily snap off
- Cracks in the trunk or branches
Regularly inspect and prune your trees, and remember to check with your council about local tree laws.
If you need any help talk to an Arborist or your local council.