Suncorp is urging residents of NSW and Queensland to trim overhanging trees, clean gutters and check their roofs in preparation for storms.

After an unprecedented start to the bushfire season, the insurer is warning Australians not to be complacent about storm preparation.

“Queensland is known for its extreme weather events,” Suncorp spokesman Joshua Cooney said. “While parts of the state are experiencing severe drought and bushfires, it’s important not to forget about the looming storm season.”

The worst affected Queensland region for storm-related claims in the year to June 30 was Townsville and surrounding suburbs, with Suncorp receiving more than 6000 storm claims --eight times more than a year earlier.

The Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast took second and third place for the state, with just over 3000 claims each. That was followed by Brisbane South with 1449 and Brisbane North with 1368.

In NSW, analysis of more than 14,000 storm-related insurance claims for the year to June 30 revealed Berowra Heights, in Sydney’s north, to be the worst affected suburb across the state.

Castle Hill, Wamberal, Paddington and Umina Beach made up the top five NSW storm hotspots.

Suncorp is urging Australians to store important documents in watertight containers, take photos of receipts or precious items, know where community meeting points are and have adequate insurance.