The Financial Ombudsman Services are here to help with Flood Insurance Problems.
September 20, 2011
The Financial Ombudsman Services are here to help with Flood Insurance Problems.
Following the devastating floods earlier this year, many Northern Victorians are still facing long, ongoing battles with their insurance companies. However there is somewhere to turn.
The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) is a Federal Government agency that helps independently resolve disputes between consumers and financial service providers. This includes those having problems settling insurance claims.
Federal Member for Murray, Dr Sharman Stone said “many flood victims in Northern Victoria continue to deal with their insurance companies following the horrific floods earlier this year, yet many feel like they are being short-changed. I would encourage these people to consider the FOS and the independent dispute resolution services they offer.”
“I have received numerous complaints from people who feel that their insurance claims have not been properly dealt with or that incorrect decisions have been made regarding liability,” Sharman Stone said.
“Other people have raised issues such as the slow rate of assessments or repairs authorised by insurance companies and the inflexibility of insurers when settling claims.
“Individual householders, small businesses’ and farmers are eligible to ask for help from the Financial Ombudsman Service. The assistance is free and confidential and may prevent the need to engage a lawyer.
“The FOS’s dedicated finance and insurance hot line is 1300 780808 and further information is available from their website at www.fos.org.au
“I will be inviting the FOS to some information meetings in our flood affected areas in the coming weeks so that the Ombudsman can be made more aware of personal experiences.” Sharman Stone said.
Media Contact: Jonathan Clark 0417 148 110
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