An Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) forum in Picton last week was attended by around 20 claimants hit by flood and storm damage during last month’s east coast low storms.

CEO Rob Whelan says the forum provided information on the claims process, rebuilding and legal matters to insured householders and businesses.

The small town south of Sydney was hit hard by the storms, with Stonequarry Creek bursting its banks and damaging shops and homes.

“After a question-and-answer session claimants were able to sit down with their insurer and other specialists to discuss their claims and seek expert guidance on their circumstances,” Mr Whelan said.

“A handful of claimants who opted not to purchase flood cover were able to raise their concerns directly with their insurer and receive in-depth explanations about how their claim had been assessed.”

Residents were also offered advice on the formal claims dispute process.

Suncorp and QBE last month said damage in Picton would be covered under the storm section of customers’ policies.

IAG says it will fully pay about 80% of claims, reflecting the mix of storm and flood damage and the policy coverage held.