Storms behind four in five Victorian natural peril claims

New RACV Insurance claims data reveals storms are by far the most costly and common natural hazard faced by Victorian customers, accounting for almost 80 per cent of all natural peril claims in the five years to 14 October 2026, with more than 55,000 claims lodged with RACV Insurance across the state. This was followed by hail with around 6,700 claims, flood with 1,900, impact by falling objects with 1,800 and lightning with 1,400.

RACV Insurance customers lodged more than 70,000 natural peril claims for property and motor damage during the five-year period, with spring recording the highest number at around 26,000 claims, closely followed by summer with around 25,700. Storms were the leading cause of RACV Insurance claims in every season.

RACV General Manager Insurance Bill Bloodworth urged Victorians to prepare their homes early in the season, rather than waiting until severe weather is forecast.

“Storms are by far the biggest driver of natural peril claims lodged with RACV Insurance, accounting for almost four in every five claims over the past five years,” Mr Bloodworth said.

“More than half of RACV Insurance storm claims over the past five years came from Greater Melbourne, so living in an urban area is no reason to be complacent about preparing for severe weather.

“Storm damage can happen quickly, so we’re urging Victorians to act early in the season. Simple steps like clearing gutters, trimming trees and securing outdoor items can help protect your home, car and family.”

More than half of RACV Insurance storm claims over the five-year period came from postcodes in Greater Melbourne, which recorded around 28,200 storm claims, or 51 per cent of all storm claims across Victoria.

The top five Victorian regions for RACV Insurance storm claims lodged between 15 October 2021 and 14 October 2026 were: 

• Greater Melbourne: around 28,200 claims (51 per cent)
• Gippsland: around 9,200 claims (17 per cent)
• Hume: around 6,800 claims (12 per cent)
• Barwon South West: around 5,300 claims (10 per cent)
• Grampians: around 3,500 claims (6 per cent)

RACV research undertaken in 2026 found 38 per cent of Victorians felt well prepared for extreme weather events, 39 per cent felt moderately prepared and 23 per cent felt less prepared. 

“With spring and summer accounting for almost three quarters of natural peril claims over the past five years, now is the time to prepare your property and review your insurance cover,” Mr Bloodworth said.

RACV urges Victorians to prepare for storms by:

• Trimming trees and branches away from the home.
• Parking vehicles under cover or away from trees.
• Keeping gutters, downpipes and drains clear of debris.
• Securing outdoor furniture and trampolines.
• Preparing an emergency kit and keeping up to date with weather warnings.
• Checking home and motor insurance is up to date and the level of cover remains suitable.

If your home or vehicle is damaged and is insured with RACV Insurance, contact RACV Insurance as soon as it is safe, take photos of the damage and keep receipts for urgent repairs.

For emergency assistance during storms, call VICSES on 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).