Written and edited by GabrielPowered by YouSail.com.au
Sailboat InsuranceAustralia · Independent guide

Boat Insurance Claim Checklist

Boat Insurance Claim Checklist. Covers immediate boat insurance claim steps and preserving claim evidence.

By Gabriel2 min readUpdated

Resources

Immediate boat insurance claim steps

  • Protect life and call emergency services where necessary
  • Prevent further damage where safe
  • Record date, time, GPS position and weather
  • Photograph the overall scene before moving equipment if safe
  • Obtain witness details
  • Notify police or maritime authorities where required
  • Contact the insurer or broker

Preserving claim evidence

  • Broken components
  • Failed hoses or fittings
  • Engine and maintenance records
  • Rigging records
  • CCTV or marina footage
  • AIS or plotter track where relevant
  • Serial numbers and purchase receipts

Documents during claim assessment

  • Keep a written claim chronology
  • Record assessor and repairer visits
  • Ask for repair approvals in writing
  • Keep towing, lift, storage and emergency invoices
  • Request written reasons for declined items or settlement adjustments

Disputing a claim decision

  • Read the PDS, certificate and endorsements again
  • Ask the insurer for the exact clause relied upon
  • Use internal dispute resolution
  • Consider AFCA if the complaint is eligible

Building a dated claim record

Write a short timeline while events are fresh: where the vessel was, who was aboard, weather and sea conditions, what happened, what was done to prevent further loss and when the insurer was contacted. Preserve original photos and videos rather than relying only on compressed copies sent through messaging apps. Record the names of witnesses, police, marina staff, salvors or repairers involved.

Do not discard damaged parts or authorise non-emergency permanent repairs until the insurer’s process is clear. The how to make a claim guide covers notification and the complaints guide covers escalation.

General information onlyThe information on sailboatinsurance.com.au is general educational information only. It may be wrong, incomplete or out of date, and you should not rely on it as a substitute for the current policy documents or professional advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and is not personal financial product advice. Insurance cover depends on the actual policy wording, Product Disclosure Statement, certificate of insurance, endorsements, exclusions, limits, sub-limits and underwriting decisions that apply to your vessel. Always read the current policy documents before buying, renewing or changing cover. For legal, financial or insurance advice about your own circumstances, consider speaking with an appropriately licensed professional.