What to do when someone approaches you to assist in managing an insurance claim

When an unsolicited third party offers to manage your insurance claim, it can lead to delays and communication issues, often resulting in less favourable outcomes for you as the policyholder.

Common tactics employed by some individuals include:

  • Catchy Flyers: Flyers and business cards featuring industry-standard logos.
  • Official-Looking Contracts: Contracts displaying Australian Business Numbers (ABN) and Australian Company Numbers (ACN).
  • Slick Websites:  Websites that appear authentic and professional.
  • High-Pressure Sales: Door-to-door solicitations offering ‘today only’ specials, pressuring you to commit to immediate authorisation.

Strategies to protect yourself from these unsolicited approaches:

  1. Check their Identity: DSH Insurance will always inform you before sending a tradesperson to your home. If you are unsure, ask for identification or call us to verify.
  2. Beware of ‘Free Inspections’: These may sound tempting but often require you to sign an authorisation form granting access to your property, access to a cash settlement made against your DSH Insurance policy and an accrual of fees or charges. This   potentially can lead to complications associated with the accepted general insurance claims and assessment process.
  3. Policy Knowledge Gaps: Third-party individuals may not fully understand your specific policy or claims history, that may lead to delays and or unnecessary costs.
  4. Avoid Signing Contracts:  Hold off on signing any agreements or contracts without doing your due diligence first. If you are pressured to decide quickly, remember you have a statutory cooling-off period during which we can help you understand the agreement you are entering into and highlight the fee’s, charges and potentially interest charged to you as the party entering into a formal contracted agreement.
  5. No Upfront Payments: When working with trusted tradespeople referred by DSH Insurance, you'll never be asked for payment upfront. Be wary of third parties who claim there are no 'out of pocket' expenses and steer you toward a cash settlement. They often deduct a portion of the settlement as their service fee, which can impact the funds available for your property repairs.

Stay informed to protect yourself and keep your insurance claims process smooth and efficient. If you choose to engage a third-party representative, DSH Insurance will respect your decision and collaborate throughout the claims and assessment process.

DSH Insurance policyholders can lodge a claim  by calling 1300 552 662 or a lodge a claim directly online.