Cyclone Recovery: A Guide for Queensland Business Owners, Tenants & Landlords Navigating Insurance Claims
In the wake of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, business owners, tenants, and landlords across Queensland are facing the difficult task of rebuilding. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, lost income, or insurance hurdles, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference in getting back on your feet.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. This guide breaks down the key steps for businesses, commercial tenants, and landlords to navigate insurance claims efficiently and get back to business as soon as possible.
Step 1: Immediate Actions – Safety First
Before doing anything, ensure your property is safe to enter. Structural damage, electrical hazards, and debris can pose serious risks, so follow local authorities' advice before returning.
Once it's safe, document everything—clear records will strengthen your insurance claim and help speed up the process.
Business Owners & Tenants:
✅ Take photos and videos of all damage, including stock, equipment, and furnishings.
✅ Make a list of all damaged or lost items with approximate values.
✅ Keep receipts for temporary repairs, alternate trading locations, or replacement stock—these may be covered.
✅ If your business has been forced to close, document loss of income (daily revenue records, booking cancellations, payroll expenses).
Landlords:
✅ Inspect the property for roof, wall, and structural damage.
✅ Get a professional building inspection if needed.
✅ Check in with tenants to assess their situation and document their losses (some may be covered by your policy, while others may fall under theirs).
The more evidence you have, the smoother your claim will be.
Step 2: Understanding Your Insurance Policy
Not all policies are the same. Now is the time to go through the fine print and clarify what your insurer covers.
Key Coverage Areas:
- Storm vs. Flood Damage: Some policies cover storm damage but exclude flooding—check your policy to avoid surprises.
- Business Interruption Insurance: Covers lost revenue due to business closures. If you have it, you’ll need financial records to prove losses.
- Tenant vs. Landlord Responsibilities: Business owners may have separate coverage for contents and operations, while landlords are responsible for structural and building repairs.
- Temporary Trading Locations: Some policies cover costs of relocation if your premises are unfit for business.
If anything is unclear, call your insurer as soon as possible to get clarity on your coverage.
Step 3: Lodging Your Claim – What Business Owners, Tenants & Landlords Need to Do
Business Owners & Tenants:
✅ Notify your insurer immediately. The sooner you lodge your claim, the faster it gets processed.
✅ Submit all documentation (photos, inventory, receipts, and revenue loss statements).
✅ Keep records of all communication with your insurer—note dates, times, and conversations.
✅ Be present when assessors visit to ensure key damage is recorded accurately.
✅ Review your lease agreement—some damages may be covered by your landlord’s insurance, while others are your responsibility.
Landlords:
✅ Inform your insurer promptly and lodge a claim for structural damage.
✅ Work with tenants to ensure their claims align with your own—conflicting claims can cause delays.
✅ Obtain quotes for repairs—insurers often require multiple quotes before approving work.
✅ Keep tenants updated on timelines for repairs and insurance assessments.
If a claim is delayed or denied unfairly, business owners, tenants, and landlords all have the right to challenge the decision. The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) can assist with disputes.
Step 4: Financial Assistance for Businesses & Property Owners
Beyond insurance, the Australian government has activated disaster recovery payments to assist affected business owners, landlords, and employees.
Available Support:
- Disaster Recovery Allowance – Financial help for business owners and employees who lost income.
- Small Business Grants & Loans – Funding for commercial properties and businesses needing urgent repairs or replacements.
- Landlord Relief Assistance – Help for property owners whose tenants have been displaced.
🔗 Check eligibility and apply here:
👉 Queensland Disaster Assistance
Step 5: Looking Ahead – Preparing for Future Storms
Once recovery is underway, it’s important to take steps to protect your business or property against future cyclones.
For Business Owners & Tenants:
✔ Review your insurance policy—ensure you’re covered for flood, storm damage, and business interruptions.
✔ Create an emergency plan—know what steps to take before the next storm hits.
✔ Back up important documents and finances—store critical records digitally in case of future loss.
For Landlords:
✔ Invest in cyclone-resistant upgrades—reinforce roofing, doors, and windows.
✔ Ensure your insurance is up to date—confirm you have coverage for structural repairs and loss of rental income.
✔ Establish clear emergency procedures for tenants—so they know what to do in future disasters.
Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone
Queensland’s business community is strong, and support is available. Whether you’re a business owner trying to reopen, a tenant recovering from stock losses, or a landlord handling major repairs—help is out there, and you are not in this alone.
🔗 For More Information & Support:
📌 Insurance Council of Australia – Claiming After a Cyclone
📌 Government Grants & Assistance
📌 The Guardian – Cyclone Recovery Guide