The Earthquake Commission (EQC) is urging homeowners whose properties have been damaged by the former Cyclone Gita to lodge a claim.

“Unfortunately this latest storm may cause damage to parts of the country already damaged by ex-Cyclone Fehi,” EQC chief customer officer Trish Keith said. “Even if you have lodged a claim for that event, you should still lodge a new claim with us if this latest storm damages your property.”

Keith said homeowners have three months from when the damage occurred to lodge a claim. However, he noted, as with any event, the safety and welfare of everyone comes first.

“Our team is working hard to assist and support communities right around the country who have been affected by the recent storms. Anyone whose property has been damaged by those events, or this latest storm, should talk with us,” he added.

EQC covers storm and flood damage to residential land only. It has outlined what potential claimants are covered for:  

• Your home is generally insured up to a maximum of $100,000 +GST per event, on a replacement value basis.
• Your contents are generally insured up to a maximum of $20,000 +GST per event, on a replacement value basis.

EQC coverage is limited to land that is within a land holding – and includes:

• Land under your home and outbuildings (e.g., shed or garage)
• Land within eight metres of your home and outbuildings
• Land under or supporting your main access way, up to 60 metres from your home (not driveway surfacing).

EQC land cover includes:

• Bridges and culverts within the above areas
• Some retaining walls that are necessary to support or protect your home, outbuildings or insured land
• The removal of debris, such as silt or fallen trees, from the insured land (not replacement of items on the land, such as trees, plants, lawn and driveways).

EQC said claims can be lodged online, via email on [email protected], or by calling 0800 DAMAGE (0800 326 243).

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EQC reveals claim numbers for February storm