Filing a complaint against your insurer can seem overwhelming, but following the right steps ensures your concerns are addressed. Here’s a quick summary of what to do:
- Understand Your Policy: Review your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and policy schedule to confirm coverage, exclusions, and claim processes.
- Identify Valid Complaints: Examples include claim denials, delays, poor communication, settlement disputes, or errors in policy details.
- Prepare Your Case: Collect all relevant documents, including policy details, correspondence, receipts, photos, and timelines of events.
- Lodge a Complaint with Your Insurer: Contact their complaints department, provide a detailed account, and specify the resolution you seek.
- Escalate if Necessary: If unresolved, escalate to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) for a free, independent review.
How To File A Complaint About An Insurance Company
Know Your Policy and Rights
Getting familiar with your policy and understanding your rights is the first step in determining whether your complaint is justified. This knowledge helps you approach your insurer with a clear, evidence-backed argument.
Check Your Policy Documents
Your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and policy schedule (sometimes called a certificate of insurance) form the legal agreement between you and your insurer. These documents outline the specifics of your coverage, so reviewing them thoroughly is crucial before proceeding with any complaint.
Here’s what to look for:
- Confirm your personal details and, for business policies, ensure the business information is accurate.
- Examine coverage specifics, including extra covers, exclusions, limitations, policy limits, and excess amounts.
- Understand the claim settlement process – whether it involves repair, replacement, or cash payment – and note any available options.
- Familiarise yourself with your obligations, such as keeping your details up to date and maintaining the insured property.
- Check the definitions section and the outlined internal complaints procedure.
Valid Reasons for Complaints
Once you’re clear on your policy and rights, evaluate whether your situation qualifies as a legitimate complaint. Not all disagreements with your insurer meet the threshold for formal action.
Here are some valid grounds for complaints:
- Claim denials: If your claim is denied and the reasons are unclear or rely on vague policy language, you may have grounds for a complaint.
- Delays and poor communication: Unanswered calls, delays in processing, or inaccurate information are valid issues to raise.
- Settlement disputes: If the settlement amount or method (repair, replacement, or cash) doesn’t align with your policy terms or adequately cover your loss, this could warrant a complaint.
- Errors or unexpected changes: Issues like sudden premium increases, incorrect policy details, or unprocessed updates are legitimate concerns.
- Misleading conduct: If your insurer provided false or misleading information about your policy, coverage, or claims process – whether in writing or through verbal assurances – this is a serious issue. For instance, promises made by a sales representative that aren’t reflected in your policy documents could be grounds for action.
It’s important to note that complaints should focus on how your insurer has handled your matter. Being unhappy with policy terms you initially agreed to doesn’t usually qualify unless those terms were misrepresented or not properly explained at the time of purchase.
Prepare Your Complaint
Building a solid case starts with gathering and organising all the necessary evidence. This groundwork is essential for submitting an effective complaint and aligns with the steps to follow.
Collect Required Documents
Start with your policy documents, including your schedule and Product Disclosure Statement, and then add all related correspondence and financial records.
Gather all communications – rejection letters, emails, text messages, written complaints, and call records with dates and reference numbers. Insurers often record phone conversations, so you can request copies of these recordings or their transcripts to strengthen your case.
Have your membership or policy number handy, as it’s a key requirement for any formal complaint.
Financial evidence is a crucial element. Compile receipts, invoices, bank statements, and any calculations showing your losses or the compensation you’re requesting. If you’ve covered costs for temporary accommodation, rental cars, or medical expenses, these receipts are vital to back up your claim.
For medical-related claims, collect medical reports from your GP or specialists, medical certificates, and any documents showing how your health has been affected – especially if you’re claiming stress caused by delays in processing.
When it comes to property damage, photos are indispensable. Take clear pictures of the damage from various angles. If you’ve obtained your own expert reports, include them along with any reports from the insurer. Create a detailed list or spreadsheet of damaged items that need repair or replacement, including cost estimates where possible.
For accident-specific claims, evidence is critical. Include diagrams of the incident, copies of relevant road rules, police reports, CCTV footage, or dash cam recordings. If there were witnesses, their contact details and statements can provide valuable third-party verification.
Don’t forget the insurer’s own documentation. You can request their expert reports, phone recordings, interview transcripts, and even underwriting guidelines that pertain to your case.
Write Down What Happened
After collecting your documents, write a detailed account of what occurred. Lay out a clear, chronological timeline that includes dates, times, names, and key details.
Your timeline should specify the dates and times of interactions, the names of staff members involved, and what was discussed, including any promises or commitments made. Be thorough – details that seem minor now could become important later.
If your complaint hinges on verbal agreements or conversations, prepare a statutory declaration outlining what was said. Include the date, time, location, and names of everyone involved. Witnesses can also provide statutory declarations to support your account.
Be clear about what you’re asking for. Whether you want your claim approved, a higher settlement, or an apology for poor service, specifying the outcome you’re seeking will help focus the process.
Keep Copies of Everything
Make photocopies or digital scans of all documents, and send your submissions via registered post or email with read receipts.
Set up a straightforward filing system – physical or digital – that allows you to quickly access specific documents. Consider organising them by date or category (e.g., correspondence, medical reports, financial records).
For irreplaceable originals like medical certificates or police reports, send certified copies instead. Most post offices and pharmacies can certify documents for a small fee.
These records will be invaluable if you need to escalate your complaint to AFCA or pursue legal action. Starting with well-organised documentation saves time and reduces stress down the line.
File Your Complaint with the Insurer
Once you’ve gathered all your documents and written a detailed account of the issue, it’s time to officially lodge your complaint with your insurer. This is the first step in their internal dispute resolution process and sets the stage for addressing your concerns.
Contact the Complaint Team
If you’ve been assigned a claims manager, reach out to them first. Otherwise, get in touch with your insurer’s complaints department directly. These teams are specifically trained to handle formal complaints and guide you through the process.
To find the right contact details, start by checking your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) – most insurers include this information there. If it’s not readily available, visit your insurer’s website and look for sections like “Complaints,” “Customer Relations,” or “Dispute Resolution.” Many major insurers in Australia have dedicated hotlines and email addresses for complaints. Avoid general customer service numbers, as they often lack the authority to handle formal disputes. Connecting with the right department from the outset saves time and ensures your issue gets the attention it needs.
When you make the call, have your policy number and a concise summary of your issue ready. Specifically ask for the complaints department and request their direct contact details for any follow-up communications. Some insurers may prefer you to start with a phone call, while others might encourage complaints via online forms or email.
Submit a Written Complaint
Even if you’ve spoken to someone over the phone, it’s highly recommended to submit your complaint in writing. A written complaint creates a formal record and triggers the insurer’s internal timelines for resolving disputes.
To ensure your written complaint is processed efficiently, include the following key elements:
- Personal details: Provide your full name, contact information, and your insurance policy or account number.
- Timeline of events: Clearly outline what happened, when it occurred, and who was involved. Be as specific as possible, listing dates, reference numbers, and names of staff members you’ve dealt with.
- Impact on you: Explain how the issue has affected you – whether it’s financial stress, emotional strain, or practical challenges like being unable to work. This helps highlight the seriousness of your complaint.
- Previous efforts: Detail any steps you’ve already taken to resolve the matter, such as phone calls or emails. Include dates and responses to show you’ve tried to resolve the issue before escalating it.
- Desired outcome: Be clear about what you’re seeking, whether it’s claim approval, a higher settlement, faster processing, or even an apology. Being specific helps focus the resolution process.
- Response timeframe: Request a reasonable deadline for the insurer to respond. Most insurers aim to acknowledge complaints within a few business days and provide a detailed response within 15 to 30 days, depending on complexity.
Include copies of all relevant documents, but keep the originals. Maintain a complete copy of your complaint and all attachments for your records. Send your submission via registered post or email with a read receipt to ensure it’s received.
Response Times and Review Process
Australian insurers are required to follow specific timelines when handling complaints. Most will acknowledge your complaint within 24 to 48 hours of receiving it, either by phone, email, or letter. This acknowledgement should include a reference number for your complaint and the contact details of the person managing your case.
For most complaints, the insurer has 15 business days to investigate and provide a detailed response. If the matter is more complex and requires further investigation or expert assessments, they may take up to 45 business days. If additional time is needed, they must notify you, explain the reason, and provide an updated timeline.
Your complaint will be assigned to someone with the authority to make decisions on your case. This individual will have access to all relevant files and the ability to approve settlements or policy adjustments if necessary. During the review, the insurer may contact you to request additional details or clarify information. Respond promptly to avoid delays and keep records of all communications, including dates and summaries of phone calls.
If the insurer’s response doesn’t resolve your complaint, they are required to inform you about your option to escalate the matter to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). They should provide AFCA’s contact details and outline any deadlines for lodging an external complaint.
Additionally, you can request that your insurer escalate your complaint to their internal dispute resolution team if you’re not satisfied with the initial response. This team typically consists of more senior staff with the authority to make exceptions or approve settlements.
If the outcome still doesn’t meet your expectations, you can proceed to AFCA for an independent review of your case.
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Take Your Complaint to AFCA
If your insurer’s internal process doesn’t resolve your complaint, the next step is to escalate it to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). AFCA is a free, independent service that helps settle disputes between consumers and financial service providers. It operates impartially, working to find a resolution both parties can agree on. If you accept AFCA’s decision, it becomes binding on your insurer.
When to Contact AFCA
You can approach AFCA once your insurer has completed its internal dispute resolution process and given you a final response. This response should explain their decision and inform you of your right to take the matter further.
Some common reasons to contact AFCA include:
- Your insurer has denied your claim, and you believe the decision is unfair.
- The settlement offer doesn’t adequately cover your losses.
- There have been unreasonable delays – typically beyond 45 business days – or poor communication during the process.
- You feel your complaint hasn’t been handled consistently or fairly.
How to File with AFCA
To lodge a complaint, use AFCA’s free online form at afca.org.au. The form will guide you step-by-step, ensuring you provide all the necessary details.
When submitting your complaint, include:
- Your insurer’s name and your policy number.
- A clear timeline of events.
- Supporting documents, such as correspondence, invoices, or photos.
- The outcome you’re seeking (e.g., claim approval, a higher settlement, or reimbursement for related expenses).
- An explanation of why you believe the insurer’s decision was unfair, along with any financial losses you’ve experienced as a result.
If you’re not comfortable using the online form, AFCA’s website outlines other ways to submit your complaint. Once lodged, AFCA will guide you through the review process.
AFCA’s Process and Decisions
After receiving your complaint, AFCA assigns a reference number and notifies your insurer. They may request additional documents and initially try to resolve the issue informally through negotiation or conciliation. A case manager might facilitate discussions to help both sides reach an agreement.
If informal methods don’t work, AFCA can conduct a preliminary assessment to suggest a likely outcome. If the matter remains unresolved, they will proceed with a formal determination, reviewing all evidence and policy terms. Timelines for this process can vary depending on the complexity of the case.
If you accept AFCA’s determination, it becomes legally binding on your insurer. However, you’re not obligated to accept their decision. If you’re still unhappy with the outcome, you can take the matter to court or a tribunal, though this would be at your own expense.
AFCA strives to ensure fair outcomes for all parties, offering a structured and transparent process to resolve disputes.
Get Help and Support
Dealing with an insurance dispute after a car accident can feel overwhelming, but there are services designed to make the process easier. If the accident wasn’t your fault, Not My Fault offers a practical solution to reduce stress and financial strain by providing a like-for-like replacement vehicle – completely free of charge.
Here’s how it works: they take care of all the paperwork and directly bill the at-fault party’s insurer. What’s more, they can deliver the replacement car – often on the same day – to wherever you need it: your home, the crash site, or even a repair centre. You can keep the vehicle until your own car is either repaired or replaced.
This kind of support means you can focus entirely on resolving your insurance complaint, making the whole process a lot smoother.
Key Points to Remember
Here’s a quick recap to help you navigate the complaint process effectively. Filing a complaint with your insurer requires careful preparation and clear communication at every step.
Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of incidents and interactions, including phone call dates, times, and the names of people you spoke with. These records can be invaluable if you need to escalate your complaint.
Know When to Escalate: If your insurer’s internal complaints process doesn’t resolve the issue, you can take your case to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). This free external dispute resolution service offers a powerful option, as its decisions are binding on insurers. It’s an essential step for consumers who’ve exhausted other avenues.
Understand Timeframes: Insurers typically respond within 15 business days and aim to resolve complaints within 45 calendar days. If they fail to meet these deadlines, you can escalate your complaint to AFCA without waiting for the insurer’s process to finish.
For Not-at-Fault Car Accidents: Services like Not My Fault can simplify the process by managing insurer communication on your behalf. They can even provide a replacement vehicle at no cost, reducing the stress of the situation.
Lastly, stay professional and persistent. Dispute resolution can take time, but clear and factual communication, combined with following the correct procedures, gives you the best shot at a fair outcome.
FAQs
What can I do if my insurer doesn’t respond to my complaint on time?
If your insurer doesn’t respond within the required timeframe, you have the option to take your complaint to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). AFCA is an independent body that offers dispute resolution services, stepping in if your issue remains unresolved after 30 days.
Before reaching out to AFCA, it’s worth contacting your insurer again. Politely remind them of the delay and let them know you’re ready to escalate the matter if needed. This follow-up can sometimes prompt a faster response and save you the hassle of further action.
AFCA ensures your complaint is handled fairly, giving you some reassurance when your insurer isn’t fulfilling their responsibilities.
What steps can I take to ensure my complaint is handled properly by my insurer?
To ensure your complaint is handled properly, focus on being clear, specific, and professional in your approach. Begin by explaining the issue in detail, outlining what resolution you’re seeking, and attaching relevant supporting documents – such as emails, photos, or receipts. These materials can strengthen your case and show that your concerns are well-founded.
Submit your complaint in writing to the insurer’s complaints department. This not only formalises your grievance but also creates a documented record. Make sure to follow their internal dispute resolution process closely, and keep copies of all correspondence for your own records. Staying organised and precise increases the likelihood that your complaint will receive proper attention.
What evidence should I provide when making a complaint about my insurer?
When you’re filing a complaint against your insurer, having the right evidence can make all the difference. Here’s what you should gather:
- Your policy documents: These outline the terms of your coverage and are essential for proving what you’re entitled to.
- Claim forms and correspondence: Include all documents and communications related to your claim to show the process you’ve followed.
- Receipts or bank statements: Use these to confirm payments or document any financial losses you’ve experienced.
- Contemporaneous notes: Notes taken at the time of the incident can provide valuable context and detail.
- Expert reports or assessments: If you have professional evaluations that back up your case, include them.
Being thorough and organised with your records is key. Include any emails, letters, or call logs with your insurer to show your attempts to resolve the issue. Clear and accurate documentation will help support your case and improve the chances of a fair outcome.
