Media Releases

IFSO, Karen Stevens, says check with your airline, your travel agent and your travel insurer before you cancel, change or make travel plans. “We’re receiving a lot of calls from people wanting to change or cancel their travel plans, but they’re concerned about insurance."

The new IFSO Scheme website will make it easier for consumers to find information and make a complaint. "We’re here to help - if you have a question or complaint about your insurer or financial service provider, our service is free, independent and fair,” says Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman, Karen Stevens.

For a smooth summer holiday, the IFSO Scheme has some tips to help you avoid holiday mishaps resulting in declined insurance claims.

Karen Stevens, Insurance & Savings Ombudsman, advises residents affected by the Canterbury floods to call your insurance company before you start your clean up.

Insurance & Savings Ombudsman Karen Stevens urges people to check that the amount they are insuring their house for will be enough to rebuild it in the event of a disaster.

The onus is on home owners to check their house insurance policies carefully. “We want homeowners to check that the amount they are insuring their house for is enough to rebuild it in the event of a disaster,” says Karen Stevens.

“Many people do not realise they cannot withdraw their KiwiSaver savings early unless they meet strict criteria,” says Insurance & Savings Ombudsman Karen Stevens.

The Insurance & Savings Ombudsman Scheme continues to receive calls from Canterbury residents who are not eligible for a temporary accommodation benefit when their homes are being repaired or rebuilt.

Up to 10 percent of calls received by the Insurance & Savings Ombudsman are questions about insurance excesses.

Insurance & Savings Ombudsman Karen Stevens says good client communication and clear processes can help financial advisers prevent client dissatisfaction.