Filing a Home Insurance Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide
In the event of an incident that causes damage to your home or possessions, RACV Home Insurance is here to help. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of making a claim with RACV Home Insurance.
Step 1: Document the Damage
After the incident, such as a storm, flood, or fire, take clear photographs or videos of all affected areas and items. Make a detailed list of damaged property, including specifics such as brand, model, and serial numbers if possible. Keep records of any emergency or temporary repairs and related receipts.
Step 2: Submit the Claim
Contact RACV promptly once you are safe. Provide your policy number, time and details of the incident, and a damage log. Submit the photographic evidence and documentation along with your claim. RACV can then assist with arranging safe repairs, inspections, and if needed, temporary accommodation.
Step 3: Manage the Claim
RACV will assess the claim and may send qualified professionals to evaluate your home’s condition. They can organize tradespeople for repairs or additional assistance. Stay in communication with RACV, and be ready to provide any further requested information to facilitate their review.
Step 4: Pay the Excess
When your claim is approved, you will typically need to pay your policy’s excess. The exact amount and method of payment will be outlined by RACV during the claims process. Ensure you understand the excess amount stated in your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
Additional Advice
- Wear protective gear when cleaning up and keep police reports in cases of theft or vandalism, which you should also provide to RACV if relevant.
- Check your policy coverage with RACV Home Insurance by logging into your RACV account or checking your RACV Home Insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
- If your house isn't safe, you may be provided with temporary accommodation or have temporary repairs carried out on your home to make it safe.
- Contents claims are handled by RACV Home Insurance based on the type of items being claimed for, and they will discuss with you what's needed to remediate or support your loss after assessing your claim.
Emergency Contacts
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) for help, or during a flood or storm, call the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500.
With RACV Home Insurance, you can pay your excess online after your claim has been assessed. Remember, your safety is the most important thing in an emergency or after an incident such as fire, flood, or burglary.
[1] RACV Home Insurance's guidelines on managing flood and storm damage claims
[3] RACV Home Insurance's general home insurance claim procedures
- To support a contents claim with RACV Home Insurance, provide specific details about the damaged items, including brand, model, and serial numbers, alongside clear photographs or videos of the affected areas.
- In the event of a need to renovate or update your living space, consider exploring options for enhancing your lifestyle and home-and-garden aesthetics while ensuring alignment with RACV Home Insurance coverage for protection against future incidents.
