09.Your say
Some comments and advice offered in our member survey, online and via social media:
“Using [the insurer’s] online quoting system, my partner’s premium would come in at $8000. Who can afford that each year?”
“The insurer increased the premium by 20% (reduced after I complained about a 40% increase) for changed flood risk. We live in an elevated area well away from rivers/flood plain/sea.”
“Had an instance of water damage to the lounge room ceiling some years ago due to leakage caused by an errant palm frond channelling water under the roof tiles. The insurer refused the claim due to it not being ‘storm’ related.”
“Corny ads, but they do live up to promises.” – Referring to Apia.
“I think it is outrageous that insurance premiums increase when you make a claim, especially if you haven't claimed before. Many people don't claim because of this.”
“Over the last 10 years we have had a few claims and they were always dealt with in an efficient, friendly and satisfactory manner.”
“It is unclear to me why my premium has increased. I have made no claims and there is no explanation in the documentation sent me for my renewal.”
“We are insured against accidental breakage, however have found this year that the gap we would be required to pay for any claims ($300) is higher than the amount we would need to pay to repair nearly anything in our house.”
“Whenever we have had a claim in the past 50 years with the RAA, they have been prompt and efficient.”
On the flood opt-out debate
“We live on a hill where there is no possibility of flooding. Why should our premium rise to pay for those who live on a flood plain?”
“CHOICE, could you please shed some light on why the government [makes everyone pay] the fire services levy … but yet makes those with a risk of flooding bear the full brunt of increased premiums?”
“We would opt out of flood cover as we live on high ground and don't believe we should subsidise risks in flood plain areas”
“We moved from beach-level housing to 200ft up hill. Flooding is wildly improbable except from water supply or rainwater overflow.”
“We cannot get flood cover where we live so if it was included I would expect it to be unaffordable.”
“There is little chance of flooding in my area - so not beneficial to me. It may also cause more people to opt out of home insurance.”
“There is an urgent need for these reforms. I would be pleased to have automatic flood cover as that is an ambiguous element of many companies' policies.”
“Standardised definition of flood cover is essential. Flood cover should be optional if it is going to make a significant increase in premium, as many people will not need it.”