Date 03 March 2021
Home and car owners in the Ipswich to Logan areas who have had their property damaged by wild weather can access free legal help from Legal Aid Queensland.
Legal Aid Queensland provides free legal help to people affected by natural disasters who may be having trouble with their insurers.
Legal Aid Queensland’s consumer advocate, Paul Holmes, said people in these areas also need to be aware of post-disaster hustles.
He said there are some simple steps people can take to ensure they are protected.
“After a natural disaster damages homes and cars, we get reports of opportunists trying to make a shifty dollar from unwitting property owners and we have some basic tips to help people make informed decisions about repairs,” Mr Holmes said.
“People need to check their insurance is up to date and covers them for damage from natural disasters like hail, storm, fire and flood damage.
“Being fully insured means there will be a series of clear steps they will need to go through if their property is damaged during a natural disaster.
“Firstly, if your home, property or car are damaged, lodge a claim straight away with your insurer or insurers – this will cost you nothing.
“If someone knocks on your door offering to lodge your claims for you, politely ask them to leave.
“Secondly, if someone arrives offering to repair your car and they weren’t organised by your insurer, don’t sign any contract, or give them your car keys.”
Mr Holmes also encourages people to keep their important documents together in a central place so in the case of a natural disaster they can be found easily and quickly.
“Anyone needing legal help with their insurance claims, or anyone who has entered into an agreement with a someone not organised by their insurers, can access free legal help from Legal Aid Queensland,” he said.
For free natural disaster legal information and advice call 1300 527 700 or visit www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/Natural-disaster-legal-help.
Media contact:
Caroline Page (07) 3917 0406 or Amanda Catania (07) 3917 0407
Last updated 4 March 2021