New Zealanders are now turning their attention to clean-up and recovery efforts following the easing of severe weather conditions across the country, particularly the upper regions of the North and South Islands.

The Insurance Council of New Zealand | Te Kāhui Inihui o Aotearoa (ICNZ) is encouraging people to begin the recovery process safely and as soon as they’re able.

“We understand that in the early stages of recovery not everyone can immediately lodge a claim,” ICNZ Chief Executive Kris Faafoi said.

“While it’s important to contact your insurer as soon as you can, don’t wait to prevent further damage if it’s safe to do so.

“Nelson-Tasman Emergency Management has established a community information centre at the Motueka Rec Centre on Old Wharf Road. Insurance staff will be available at the Centre to support affected residents.

To help speed up recovery and keep people safe, ICNZ recommends the following:

• Mark and photograph all damaged items before moving or disposing of them.
• Make emergency repairs to ensure your home is safe. Keep receipts and records of any urgent work.
• If your home is open to the weather, you can engage a qualified professional to install temporary protection like tarpaulins provided it’s safe to do so.
• Dispose ofwater-damaged or contaminated goods that can’t be salvaged or cleaned.
• Use protective gear and keep a detailed list of discarded items. Take photos and save proof of purchase for insurance purposes.
• Separate cleanable items and don’t store unsanitary belongings indoors.
• Do not remove structural elements like flooring or wall linings or materials that may be hazardous without first speaking to your insurer. This work must be done by qualified professionals.

For homes that are uninhabitable, many home and contents policies offer temporary accommodation support. Contact your insurer to find out what’s available.

“Your insurer is here to support you,” Kris Faafoi said. “They’ll be ready to help as soon as you’re able to get in touch and start the claims process.”

Insurers will also manage claims under NHCover, which they manage on behalf of the Natural Hazards Commission (NHC).

“If your property has been affected, contact your insurer. They can help arrange assessments for your home and any affected land,” Kris Faafoi said.