IAG urges NSW residents to prepare for severe thunderstorms and stay vigilant against disaster chasers this storm season

IAG, whose brands include NRMA Insurance, CGU, WFI and ROLLiN', is urging residents to prepare for severe thunderstorms forecasted for eastern and inland New South Wales, bringing damaging winds, heavy rain and large to giant hail stones.

IAG meteorologist Kathryn Turner said severe storms are also expected to sweep through Northern NSW and South East Queensland in the coming days.

In 2025, we've already seen severe flooding, cyclones, and coastal lows along the east coast, so we should expect severe weather to continue into summer.

Kathryn Turner

IAG meteorologist

"As we transition into a warmer and wetter climate, we encourage everyone to take steps to prepare their homes for wild weather."

Clearing gutters, downpipes and drains, trimming overhanging branches and trees, removing debris and securing loose items can help protect your home from storm damage.

"During a severe thunderstorm, safety is the number one priority. Have an emergency kit ready, stay up to date with emergency warnings and avoid travel."

IAG's claims personnel are ready to support customers impacted by severe storms, with property assessors, partner builders, and NRMA Insurance Help Response Vehicles on standby to be deployed to affected areas.

Executive General Manager of Claims at IAG, Luke Gallagher, urged customers to stay vigilant this storm season, following reports of disaster chasers targeting residents in the Urunga area following recent severe hailstorms.

"Our property assessors and Help Response Vehicle are currently on the ground in Urunga Golf & Sports Club supporting affected customers. If you have been approached by a disaster chaser or need to lodge a claim, we're here to help."

Fake operators will typically arrive uninvited at storm-damaged homes and use high-pressure sales tactics to secure agreements for low-cost, immediate repairs.

Luke Gallagher

Executive General Manager of Claims at IAG

"It's a sad reality that these highly organised operations act so quickly and seek to take advantage of already distressed and vulnerable communities. Understanding the risks posed by disaster chasers and knowing how to protect yourself from exploitation is critical this storm season."

How to protect yourself from disaster chasers:

• Surprise visits: NRMA Insurance will never send an assessor or emergency-repairs team to your home without first arranging it with you after you have lodged a claim.

• Payment requests: A builder or tradesperson sent by your insurer will never ask you to pay them directly to cover your excess or for any repair work.

• Credentials: Always ask to check the credentials of any tradesperson who comes to your home on behalf of your insurer. If in doubt, call your insurer to confirm.

• If you have concerns about the authenticity of any trades people, assessors or builders claiming to act on behalf of your insurer such as NRMA Insurance, please contact us immediately online at nrma.com.au or by phone 13 11 23.