Perth Construction Firm Penalised for Insurance Lapse

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In Western Australia, legislation mandates that builders obtain a Home Indemnity Insurance (HII) policy for any residential construction projects exceeding $20,000 prior to receiving payment or commencing with construction.

This insurance offers homeowners a safeguard against financial setbacks should a builder be unable to finish or rectify construction due to reasons such as death, disappearance, financial insolvency, or the revocation of the builder's registration due to financial reasons.

The Armadale Magistrates' Court heard the case where DBD Developments had proceeded with laying the concrete foundation and other preliminary installations for a client's two-storey home in January 2022. However, the requisite HII was not procured until six months later, in July.

Saj Abdoolakhan, the Building Commissioner, highlighted the homeowner's dilemma, noting that two interim payments had been made in the absence of insurance protection.

He stated, "The builder was eligible for this insurance and should have obtained it before commencing work, rather than six months later. This conduct undermines the protections provided by WA’s home building contract laws and the overall integrity of the building approvals process."

This incident resonates amidst ongoing reviews in the construction sector focusing on enhancing compliance and safeguarding consumer interests, as highlighted in the original report from Armadale News.

Instances like these underline the crucial importance of transparency and adherence to legal obligations in the construction industry, particularly in protecting homeowners from potential financial vulnerabilities.

The case serves as a potent reminder for builders across the region to prioritise due diligence and adhere to statutory regulations to maintain trust and uphold industry standards.

The penalty not only enforces existing laws but also signals to other builders the serious repercussions of bypassing essential mandates that protect both builders and clients alike.

Published:Tuesday, 11th Feb 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

Strata Broker Review Raises Fresh Questions for Owners Corporations

04 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

A fresh compliance review into strata insurance broking has intensified the sector’s focus on transparency, governance and the way owners corporations are supported through major insurance decisions. The National Insurance Brokers Association has responded by saying it will continue working with members and the code compliance committee after the review identified shortcomings in strata-related arrangements. - read more

Broker Conflict Findings: A Reminder for Home Service Operators

04 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

Fresh scrutiny of broker conduct in the strata insurance market is a useful reminder for home service businesses that insurance advice should be transparent, documented and clearly aligned with the client’s interests. The National Insurance Brokers Association has responded to findings from the Insurance Brokers Code Compliance Committee after a review identified weaknesses in representative arrangements, remuneration disclosure, conflict management and oversight. - read more

New Insurance Code Draft Puts Claims Handling in Focus

04 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia has opened public consultation on a redrafted General Insurance Code of Practice, with feedback invited until 21 July 2026. The proposal is not yet final, but it is an important development for anyone who relies on insurance to keep a small business operating, including personal trainers, fitness instructors and studio owners. - read more

Canstar’s Latest Update Sharpens the Cost Question for Landlords

04 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

Canstar’s 3 July 2026 landlord insurance comparison update gives Australian property investors a timely reminder that price is only one part of the cover decision. Its latest published figures, based on March 2026 research, show the national average annual premium for landlord building and contents cover on houses at $2,640, compared with $432 for units. The gap underlines how strongly property type, location, rebuild exposure and insured assets can influence what landlords pay. - read more

Zurich-Honey Deal Brings New Momentum to Landlord Insurance

04 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori

Zurich Australia is set to deepen its position in the local personal insurance market through an expanded partnership with Honey Insurance, with landlord policies included in the new arrangement. From October 2026, Zurich will underwrite and manage claims for home, landlord and motor policies distributed under the Honey brand, as well as through Bank of Queensland and other partner channels. - read more

Click for more Insurance News