Stay Ahead of the Storm: Preparing Your Clients for Cyclone Alfred

Ahead of Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s anticipated landfall, people in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales are being urged to prepare for strong winds, heavy rain and storm surge.  

As its path becomes clearer, brokers have an essential role to play in helping clients navigate the risks and ensuring that they are adequately protected. Here's how you can prepare for Cyclone Alfred and provide the best possible support to your clients. 

1. Review Insurance Policies 

• Review the scope of coverage: Verify that clients have appropriate coverage for cyclone-related damages, such as storm surge, wind damage, and flooding.

2. Communicate with Clients About Risk Preparedness 

• Send out alerts and reminders: Notify clients about the approaching cyclone and recommend they review their evacuation plans, and emergency supplies. 
• Provide emergency planning advice: Encourage clients to create or revisit their emergency preparedness plans. This includes ensuring that evacuation routes, communication strategies, and emergency contacts are in place. 
• Promote home and business safety measures: Recommend reinforcing structures, securing windows, and taking steps to prevent water damage. For businesses, advise securing inventory and critical equipment that may be vulnerable to the storm.

3. Help Clients Understand Claims Process 

• Clarify the claims process: Walk clients through the claims process, ensuring they understand the necessary documentation, timelines, and steps involved. Encourage them to start gathering any necessary records or receipts ahead of time. 
• Prepare for post-cyclone evaluations: Advise clients to document any potential damage before, during, and after the cyclone to facilitate smoother claims processing. 
• Set expectations: It’s important to manage client expectations by explaining how the claims process may unfold during a large-scale event, especially if there is high demand for adjusters and inspectors. 

4. Stay Updated on Cyclone Forecasts and Developments 

• Monitor official weather warnings: Keep up to date with the latest cyclone warnings from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and other trusted sources to provide timely advice to clients. 

By offering proactive support and staying informed, brokers can help clients face the challenges of extreme weather, like Cyclone Alfred with greater confidence and security. 

For more information: 

Accurate Weather Updates: Bureau of Meteorology

NSW Government Advice: Cyclones in NSW | NSW Government

Queensland Government Advice: Tropical Cyclone Alfred | Disaster Management | Queensland Government