$8 million more in cyclone insurance claims paid to Douglas Shire residents, business owners
INSURANCE PAYOUTS
Nearly six months on from the devastating flooding and other damage caused by Cyclone Jasper, insurance claims are still being paid to residents and businesses in Douglas Shire.
In about a six week period to the end of May, a further 100 or so claims – amounting to $8 million – were paid out in the region by insurance companies, bringing the total from Cyclone Jasper so far to 1400 claims, or $53 million in payments.
Jasper hit the region on December 13.
“The number of claims has increased as communities continue their journey of recovery, which is why the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and its members are hosting their third round of community consultations, providing support and guidance for impacted policyholders,” a spokesperson from the Insurance Council of Australia said.
The consultations are being held this week over two days at two locations:
Port Douglas: Today, June 12, from 10am to 6pm at the Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort and Spa, Mitre Street, Port Douglas.
Mossman: Tomorrow, June 13, from 8:30am to 2:30pm at the Mossman Shire Hall, 6 Mill Street, Mossman.
The ICA said its representatives and some insurance company personnel will be available for face-to-face consultations to provide support and claims assistance to affected individuals and businesses.
The ICA told Newsport while it doesn’t hold figures about the number of homeowners who haven’t yet been able to return to their homes because repairs from flooding remain incomplete, there have been social media posts by some residents in Douglas saying they’re still in temporary accommodation.
“The time required to settle or resolve a claim depends on the type of claim, the assessment and analysis that’s required to make a claim decision, and the complexity of the repair or settlement,” the spokesperson said.
“The more complex the claim the longer it will take to process.
“However, it is important to note that claims will remain open until all works are completed and approved, which may take some time depending on the severity of the damage caused and the complexity of the claim.”
ICA Chief Operating Officer Kylie Macfarlane said: “Homeowners and businesses are facing ongoing challenges as they continue to recover from Ex Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
“That’s why it’s important for insurers to continue to be present in the community, providing support and guidance through the claims process,” she said.
Impacted policyholders in Douglas who wish to attend the consultations in the area are encouraged to make a booking through the ICA’s online system:
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