Auckland floods: More than 5000 insurance claims lodged, with more expected

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The devastating Auckland floods could be the “biggest weather-related claims event in our history”, with more than 5000 insurance claims lodged as of Sunday morning.

The supercity was put into a state of emergency on Friday night as a line of severe thunderstorms unleashed on the region, flooding homes, creating slips and causing havoc for locals.

Three people have died as a result of the natural disaster.

On Sunday, the forecast was still looking bleak, but most emergency services were now in clean up mode – as were insurance companies.

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AMI, State and NZI Insurance, which trade under IAG, said they had received 3500 claims for property damage for both homes and businesses, as well as flooded vehicles.

“Our major event response team has been supporting customers since last night, with temporary accommodation and other emergency support,” AMI, State and NZI chief executive Amanda Whiting said.

“We are here to help any of our customers who need us.

”If you are outside the affected region and have a non-weather related or urgent claim, please hold off from contacting us today.”

Heavy rain has caused serious damage across Auckland.

David White/Stuff

Heavy rain has caused serious damage across Auckland.

White encouraged customers to get touch only once they have had the chance to assess their damage, when it is safe to do so.

“The quickest way to make an insurance claim is online, but they can also give us a call,” White said.

AA Insurance was also experiencing a high number of claims, with 2000 received as of Sunday morning.

“The full extent of the damage is expected to become clearer over the coming days and the insurer has extra team members on deck to support all customers who need help,” a spokesperson said in a statement.

“The many Kiwis impacted by this devastating weather event are in our thoughts and we are focused on supporting customers who are unable to return to their homes,” AA Insurance acting chief executive Simon Hobbs said.

“Our priority is ensuring customers’ immediate safety by arranging temporary accommodation, so they have a secure place to stay while their homes are assessed.”

“Our assessors continue to survey the worst hit areas of Auckland and have seen firsthand how significant and widespread the damage is. This event will result in a high volume of claims for the industry – and could be the biggest weather-related claims event in our history.”

A spokesperson from the Insurance Council of New Zealand said many claims were yet to be made, as some people had not yet been able to access their homes or businesses.

“There will be thousands of claims across home, business and motor.

“Insurers are ready to ramp up their teams to take calls and get on with that process of dealing with an exceptional number of claims.”

Kāinga Ora houses on Clover Drive, Henderson were hit hard by floods on Friday.

James Halpin/Stuff

Kāinga Ora houses on Clover Drive, Henderson were hit hard by floods on Friday.

The spokesperson said “dealing with this will be a long haul” and appreciated insurance customers being patient.

“There will be very high demand for tradies, building materials and many other goods that need replacing in homes and businesses as well as vehicles.”

All insurers have shared tips for those in the midst of the floods.

“Continue to follow the instructions of Civil Defence and emergency services providers,” the spokesperson from the Insurance Council said.

“Do not do anything that puts your safety at risk or causes more damage to your property.”

For a full list of advice, head to the Civil Defence website.

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