Thousands of RACV Insurance claims highlight the need for severe storm preparation

With storms costing Victorians millions of dollars in damage annually and accounting for 80 per cent of all Victoria State Emergency Service callouts, RACV is encouraging Victorians to take proactive steps to protect their homes and vehicles from severe weather.

According to Victoria State Emergency Service, more than 12,000 storm-related requests for assistance were made in the past year, costing Victorians an estimated $28 million. The Insurance Council of Australia also reported 27,000 insurance claims during the extreme 2024 Valentine’s Day storm.

RACV General Manager Insurance and Roadside, Bill Bloodworth, said many of these issues can be prevented with simple preparation.

“Storms are one of the most common causes of damage to homes in Victoria. We know that issues like roof leaks, blocked gutters and unsecured outdoor items often lead to costly repairs that could have been avoided,” Mr Bloodworth said.

“Now is a great time for Victorians to carry out a home and garden check-up and make sure their property is storm-ready.”

RACV’s tips for preparing your home and vehicle:

• Clear gutters and downpipes to reduce the risk of water damage.
• Secure or store outdoor items such as furniture, umbrellas, and trampolines.
• Park vehicles undercover where possible to protect against hail and falling branches.
• Trim overhanging branches near your home and powerlines.
• Inspect your roof for cracked or missing tiles.

During a storm, RACV recommends:

• Stay indoors and away from windows.
• Avoid driving unless essential.
• Never touch fallen powerlines or enter floodwaters.
• Prepare a battery-powered radio or phone for emergency updates.

“If your home or vehicle is damaged, contact RACV Insurance as soon as it is safe. Document damage with photos and keep receipts for any urgent repairs,” Mr Bloodworth said.

“By taking action now, households can reduce the likelihood of serious storm damage and stay safer when severe weather does hit.”

 

^{The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. As distributor, RACV Insurance Services Pty Ltd AFS Licence No. 230039 receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. Products issued by Insurance Manufacturers of Australia Pty Ltd ABN 93 004 208 084 AFS Licence No. 227678.}

^{RACV Trades is a trading name of RACV's trade partner, Club Home Response Pty Ltd (Victorian registered domestic building practitioner number CDB U 100178). All works are performed or arranged by Club Home Response Pty Ltd. trading as RACV Trades.}