Severe Storms in Southeast Queensland: Residents Warned About 'Disaster Chasers'
Severe storms have caused widespread damage in southeast Queensland, with giant hail smashing cars and homes. As the clean-up begins, residents are being warned to be vigilant against "disaster chasers" who may take advantage of the situation.
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has received over 19,300 insurance claims following the recent storms, with an additional 3,880 claims made for consecutive storms from October 31 to November 2. The ICA is urging residents to be cautious of opportunistic individuals offering quick-fix clean-up, repairs, and inspections, often demanding upfront cash payments for substandard or incomplete work.
Liam Walter, the ICA's mitigation and extreme weather response director, warns that some "disaster chasers" may pressure homeowners into signing contracts for future repair work, promising that their insurer will cover the costs. However, this can leave homeowners liable for inflated repair bills not covered by their insurance policy, as insurers only pay for approved work covered by a policy.
Walter emphasizes the potential for these individuals to exploit vulnerable individuals, including families and the elderly, leaving them with large bills and damaged homes.
Legal Aid Queensland's Julie Maron has seen firsthand how people can be taken advantage of. She describes cases where individuals have unwittingly signed contracts after being approached by "disaster chasers" offering to manage their insurance claims. These companies often use social media and posters in affected suburbs to advertise their services, and some have even used digital devices to sign clients without providing a written copy of the contract.
Maron highlights the potential for termination fees and the involvement of the same or related companies for both claim management and repairs, leading to excessive charges for services that should be free.
To protect themselves, homeowners should verify contractors' licenses with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) and check the QBCC license register for disciplinary actions. The Office of Fair Trading also advises checking company details with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) and ensuring an Australian Business Number (ABN).
Walter recommends that anyone with damage should contact their insurer, even if the extent of the damage is unclear. Additionally, customers have extra rights if a salesperson or trader approaches their home unannounced, with a 10-day cooling-off period for contracts over $100, during which the salesperson cannot take money or start work.
By staying informed and cautious, residents can avoid falling victim to "disaster chasers" and ensure they receive fair treatment during the recovery process.
