Media Releases

A spate of thefts from cars in a Hawkes Bay park on Sunday is a wake-up call for insurance customers, says Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman, Karen Stevens.

Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman Karen Stevens is urging homeowners to check that the amount they are insuring their house for will be enough to rebuild it in the event of a disaster.

Think twice before you inflate your insurance claim, as false statements and insurance fraud are more serious than most people think. “Tell the truth when making an insurance claim. Insurers will check the information you give when they consider your claim.”

Insurance cover is another benefit to encourage learner drivers to get licensed, but the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman urges restricted drivers not to break the rules.

Many of the more common complaints could have been avoided if people took some time to read policies and understand contracts. We encourage you to keep asking questions until you do.

21 years’ experience resolving complaints can help to improve businesses and empower customers, says the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme.

Each year, the IFSO Scheme responds to about 300 complaints and 3,000 complaint enquiries each year about insurance and financial services. Some common complaints could be avoided. We urge weekend travellers to take note of these tips.

Karen Stevens, Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman, advises everyone affected by today's earthquakes, to take photos or videos of damaged property before you clean anything up, if it is safe to do so.

Do what you can to make your home safe and document the damage by taking photos or videos before you throw anything away. Contact your insurer.

The aftermath of earthquakes can be even more stressful if people don’t know how to make an insurance claim or seek additional help. The IFSO Scheme has recommended steps for individuals, families and businesses affected by the earthquakes.