Check for underinsurance before bushfire season arrives

“Some customers renew their policies each year without updating their sum insured to reflect the total value of their home and contents,” said Suncorp spokesperson Alexandra Foley.

“When disaster strikes, these customers can discover that their insurance coverage is not sufficient to cover the cost of rebuilding to current bushfire standards.

“You should check your policy now, before it’s too late. Make sure your sum insured is high enough to completely replace all of your property and contents.”

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast higher-than-average temperatures for much of Queensland during spring, creating conditions ripe for bushfires.

“The bushfire season officially beings on 1 October, but the arrival of spring is the perfect opportunity to make sure you are fully prepared,” said Ms Foley.

Residents can also follow these tips to prepare for the bushfire season:

• Prepare a bushfire plan and make sure every family member knows what to do in an emergency
• Cut back any overhanging trees or shrubs close to your home
• Keep your lawn short and backyard tidy
• Clear gutters of leaves and debris
• Store woodpiles and flammable materials covered and away from the house
• Ensure you have a hose that can reach every part of your home
• Repeat these steps regularly – maintain your home throughout the bush fire season
• Make sure your home and contents insurance is up to date and covers the cost to rebuild your home to current bushfire building standards
• Check with your local authorities to stay up to date with any major bush fire events