Whether your house is flooded, sustained wind or water damage, the aftermath of a storm can pose serious dangers. Returning to your home after severe weather can be an overwhelming experience with live power lines and open areas of your house putting you at risk.
Insurance and flood damage – what to do when you return to your property:
Safety first
- Primarily, don’t do anything that puts anyone at risk. Only return to your property when emergency services give the go ahead. If water has entered the property, don't turn on your electricity until it has been inspected by an electrician.
Evidence of the damage
- Document the damage, particularly if your homeowner's insurance only covers certain types of damage. Take pictures or videos of damage to the property as evidence for your claim.
- Make a list of each item damaged and include a detailed description, such as brand, model and serial number if possible. You can also keep samples of materials and fabrics to show your DSH Insurance assessor.
- Store damaged or destroyed items somewhere safe.
Clean up
- Follow health and safety advice when clearing up after storms, wear appropriate clothing and have experts inspect things like electricity, sewage and water supplies.
- Where possible, remove all wet items such as floor coverings, rugs, mats, furniture, bedding, linen and clothing.
- Remember to practice basic hygiene during any clean-up period. Wash hands thoroughly after participating in any flood clean-up activities.
Contact DSH Insurance to lodge a claim on 1300 552 662 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or Email: dsh@dva.gov.au include your name, policy number and brief details of the damage.
If you require emergency assistance due to flood, please phone SES on 132 500.
Not sure of what to do if you have a claim? Our Do's and Don’ts might come in handy.
You can also access our Natural Disasters – Homeowners Information Pack that includes a Household Evacuation kit, information on different types of natural disasters, and useful links for emergencies.