Everything You Need To Know About Disaster chasers

Beware of Storm Chasers: Protect Yourself After a Disaster

It goes without saying that at MHIA we’re committed to supporting you when you need us most, especially after extreme weather events and severe winds. We want to remind you to be cautious of unapproved trades or professionals offering quick repair services after a disaster.

These individuals, often called ‘storm chasers’ or ‘disaster chasers,’ may approach you claiming to specialise in managing insurance claims and home repairs. They often doorknock, leave flyers in letterboxes, or ask for referrals. While they may seem helpful, their services may come with unexpected risks to you as the homeowner. This blog aims to reveal some of those risks so you can remain covered and supported with your land lease home insurance.

What You Need to Know About Storm Chasers

• They may try to act on your behalf when dealing with your home insurer.
• Some offer to waive your insurance excess.
• If the repairer is not approved by MHIA you could be left paying a commission of up to 20% of the repair cost out of your pocket, a fee not covered under your policy.

Before signing any contract, always check with MHIA first so you fully understand your policy conditions and our claims process.

A Reminder from the Insurance Council of Australia

Season change can bring an increase in severe weather events, leading to a rise in insurance claims. The Insurance Council of Australia urges homeowners to deal directly with their insurer or an authorised professional, such as a broker, financial adviser, or legal representative.

Be cautious of people who:

• Offer unsolicited property inspections and repairs.
• Charge fees for helping you lodge an insurance claim.
• Discourage you from speaking directly with your insurer.
• Pressure you into signing a contract immediately.

It’s your right to ask for identification and proof of licensing before agreeing to anything. If in doubt, MHIA are here to help!

How to Spot a Storm Chaser

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with a storm chaser, look for these warning signs:

• Door knocking without you making a claim or being aware of damage to your home.
• Pressuring you to sign a contract immediately.
• Requesting cash or upfront payments.
• Using high pressure sales tactics around securing repairs or materials.
• Failing to provide a valid builder’s license and insurance certificate in the same name.

Remember, if you’ve already signed a contract with a disaster chaser, you have a 10-day cooling-off period to reconsider. If you're concerned or dissatisfied with the service provided by one of these agents, you may be eligible to lodge a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).

How MHIA Supports You Through the Claims Process

We understand that making an insurance claim can feel overwhelming, and it may be tempting to accept help from a tradesperson or third party offering immediate assistance for a fee. Before you do, you should consider calling our amazing service and claims team who are here to support MHIA customers every step of the way. If you do need to make a claim, we have a tried-and-true process in place designed to ensure your home is repaired properly and backed by a lifetime warranty on workmanship.

• MHIA will always communicate with you directly about the progress of your claim and advise you of the outcome required.
• Our builders are carefully selected to provide high-quality repairs that meet industry standards.
• We work closely with experts to ensure you receive the best service possible.

Important Contacts and Resources

If you need legal advice or have concerns about a contract you have signed, here are some helpful contacts:

Legal Aid Free Natural Disaster Legal Help Line:

• Queensland: 1300 527 700
• New South Wales: 1800 801 529
• Western Australia: 1300 650 579
• South Australia: 1300 366 424
• Victoria: 1800 113 432

Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA):
Phone: 1800 931 678
Email: info@afca.org.au

Remember: Claims Processing Comes At No Additional Cost.

Our dedicated service and claims teams are here to support MHIA customers through the claims process—at no additional cost and as part of your policy! If anyone knocks on your door, asks for payment for these services or pressures you to sign a contract then and there, contact MHIA immediately to ensure you receive the trusted assistance you are entitled to.

Your peace of mind is our priority, and we are here to ensure your home is repaired the right way.

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact us. We‘re here to help!