The Insurance Council of Australia has declared last week’s storms in Victoria a “significant event” after nearly 10,000 claims were filed.

The council says it had registered 9947 claims by Friday afternoon relating to storms on February 13 that caused about 530,000 homes to lose power.

CEO Andrew Hall says it is too early to determine the full extent of the damage and costs. He has urged affected customers to contact insurers and begin the claims process.

“Insurers have reported a large uptick in claims over the past day, with an increase of more than 3000 claims in 24 hours – a clear signal that we need to activate services and support for affected homeowners, motorists and businesses, and reassure them that their insurer is there to help,” Mr Hall said on Friday.

“We are hearing from our members that most of the damage to homes and businesses has been as a result of fallen debris from trees and bushland, as well as the extended power outages.”

Mr Hall says the industry is also “closely monitoring” bushfire activity after 47 properties were destroyed in the state’s west.

The Insurance Council has reminded customers that while they are not required to keep damaged items, it is crucial they take photographs, identify noteworthy information and keep material samples to help their claims.