Stormy weather highlights the need for adequate insurance

The weather across Australia has been a relatively mixed bag over the previous few weeks. In particular, it has been especially perilous in both New South Wales and Queensland.

Electrical storms in Sydney continued to rage as recently as December 7, with consequences ranging from delayed flights to the cancellation of a whole host of public events. Furthermore, the Australian Broadcasting Company (ABC) reports that over 10,000 homes and businesses were without power after the eighth straight night of storms.

In Queensland, things have been similar over the last few weeks and - unfortunately - more storms have been predicted to take hold over the coming week. Hail storms have been the biggest issue in the most recent raft of storms. According to statistics from the Insurance Council of Australia, estimated losses are now at $482 million, and that figure is likely to continue to rise.

The bad weather does not discriminate and nearly all homes and businesses of any size could be at risk if the electrical storms, rain and strong winds do indeed persist as predicted.

Further research from the Insurance Council of Australia shows that the last few three cyclones and storms that have battered Queensland, New South Wales and - to a lesser extent - Victoria have caused well in excess of $1 billion worth of damage.

With the ongoing unpredictable weather, there's no better time to make sure that your insurance policy is both up to date and as thorough as possible.

If you live or own a business on Australia's East Coast, getting the right cover to protect you against a number of risks - the weather included - could well be easier than you think. Elders Insurance can offer a variety of policies which can set you right if your home or business is currently at risk.