New Water Restoration Standard Revolutionises Claims Handling in Australia

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A recently introduced Australian standard is set to transform the landscape of water damage restoration, enhancing consistency and quality in claims handling while bolstering consumer protection.

This development, according to industry professional Jeremy Stamkos, Managing Director of RIC Solutions and chair of the Standards Australia committee, positions the sector at the forefront of global best practices.

Stamkos highlights that the formal adoption of the AS-IICRC S500 standard is a pivotal moment for the industry. It provides a rigorous and scientifically supported framework for the assessment and restoration of water damage, ensuring that practices align with international guidelines and improving overall standards within Australia.

The importance of this standard cannot be overstated, particularly as weather-related incidents and water leak events are among the quickest growing claim categories in the nation. By setting a definitive benchmark for best practices, the new standard aims to minimise disputes, streamline the claims process, and improve risk management strategies.

The AS-IICRC S500 was developed by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and plays a crucial role in aligning Australian restoration processes with those on a global scale. This alignment fosters collaboration among insurers, contractors, and consultants by establishing a shared technical framework, thus ensuring better outcomes in restoration tasks.

Overall, the adoption of this standard marks a significant step forward for the industry, promising to enhance the quality of water restoration work while providing a safer, more reliable framework for all stakeholders involved in the claims process.

Published:Wednesday, 30th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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