Claims
Storm and cyclone excess deductions
| Excess | When it can apply |
|---|---|
| Standard excess | Ordinarily, on any claim |
| Storm or weather excess | Where the wording defines a separate weather excess |
| Named-cyclone excess | Where a cyclone is named by the Bureau of Meteorology |
| Mooring or berth excess | Some policies apply one to vessels left afloat |
Policy conditions for storm precautions
Preparing insurance records before cyclone season
- Read the cyclone or storm conditions on your certificate and diarise their dates.
- Hold whatever booking the conditions require — haul-out, tie-down or relocation.
- Prepare a written securing plan and know how long it takes to execute.
- Photograph the vessel secured each time, with a date.
- Keep mooring and berth inspection records current.
Recording storm damage
Access is often restricted and marinas may be closed for days. Photograph from wherever you safely can, record the date, and notify the insurer even before you can reach the boat. In a widespread event, early notification also matters practically — assessors and repairers are allocated in the order claims arrive.
Preventing further damage after a storm
Most policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further loss. Pumping out, covering broken windows and securing a damaged vessel are usually expected and usually recoverable. Permanent repairs before the assessor has seen the damage generally are not.
Read the wording before you need it
Almost every disputed marine claim turns on a definition, an exclusion or a condition the owner had never read. The PDS guide explains which sections decide claims.
Frequently asked questions
How many excesses apply to a cyclone claim?
It depends on the wording — a named-event excess can apply in addition to a storm excess and a standard excess. Ask the question specifically, because the combined figure can be many times the standard excess.
Can a storm claim be refused if I did nothing to prepare?
It can be affected where the policy requires reasonable precautions and the weather was forecast. Evidence of what you did, and when, is the practical defence.
Related guides
- Cyclone Boat Insurance Australia
- Cyclone Season Insurance Preparation Checklist
- Boat Insurance Excesses Explained
- Mooring Failure and Dragging Claims
- Boat Insurance in Cairns
- Swing Mooring Boat Insurance Australia
- Boat Insurance Claims Australia: Incidents and Disputes