Date 23 March 2021
Legal Aid Queensland has released a new podcast packed with useful information for people who are impacted by or are living in areas that are prone to natural disasters.
Queenslanders in areas who have had their property damaged by wild weather and flooding can also access free legal help through Legal Aid Queensland.
Legal Aid Queensland’s Civil Law team has released an episode of our Law for All podcast —Dealing with insurance and damage when a natural disaster hits today with helpful information for people in disaster prone areas.
Legal Aid Queensland’s consumer advocate, Paul Holmes, who was part of the team helping Queenslanders hit by the floods a decade ago, said people in flood prone and storm damaged areas should 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 quick dollar from unwitting property owners and we have some basic tips to help people make informed decisions about repairs,” Mr Holmes said.
“Hopefully, people have ensured 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.
“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 before you get legal advice.
“Anyone needing legal help with their insurance claims, or anyone who has entered into an agreement with someone not organised by their insurers, can get 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.
To listen to our Law For All podcast go to: https://lawforall.podbean.com
Media contact:
Caroline Page (07) 3917 0406 or Amanda Catania (07) 3917 0407
Last updated 23 March 2021