Loss estimates from the NSW bushfires have risen to $145 million, according to Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) figures.

Some 1041 claims had been lodged with insurers as of today, the council says.

The number is continuing to rise, as residents return home and find property damage.

More than 90% of damaged or destroyed properties have been assessed, ICA says.

“Assessors will continue this review process and also begin inspecting damage in areas not previously accessible,” ICA CEO Rob Whelan said.

IAG says its Australia Direct and CGU businesses have so far received about 600 claims.

It is too soon to give accurate cost estimates because fires are still burning and assessors are unable to gain access to all affected areas, it says.

IAG has a maximum first-event retention of $150 million under its catastrophe reinsurance program for this calendar year.

The NSW Rural Fire Service says a number of fires are still burning in the Blue Mountains and crews are back-burning and strengthening containment lines.