Perth Construction Firm Penalised for Insurance Lapse
Perth Construction Firm Penalised for Insurance Lapse
0
⚠️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.
A construction company in Perth has been penalised for initiating building works without securing the legally-required home indemnity insurance, resulting in a $3500 fine and an additional $736 in costs.
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 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
In a strategic move to cater to the growing number of Australian cruise enthusiasts, Allianz Partners has unveiled a cruise-specific travel insurance product in collaboration with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). This initiative aims to provide comprehensive coverage tailored to the unique needs of cruise travellers. - read more
Recent findings from the PwC Insurance Banana Skins Survey reveal that Australian insurers are trailing behind their global counterparts in cybersecurity preparedness. This lag is particularly concerning given the rapid evolution of cyber threats, especially those enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI). - read more
Australia's general insurance industry has reported a remarkable financial performance, achieving a 19% return on equity (ROE) for the 2025 financial year-the highest in a decade. This significant milestone reflects a combination of strategic premium increases and favourable market conditions. - read more
The Australian life insurance market is on a trajectory of steady growth, with projections indicating an increase in gross written premiums (GWP) from $26.2 billion in 2025 to $30.5 billion by 2029. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9%, reflecting a positive outlook for the sector. - read more
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently released a white paper highlighting the urgent need for reforms to state and territory civil liability laws, which have remained largely unchanged for nearly 25 years. These outdated laws are contributing to significant increases in public liability insurance premiums, affecting a wide range of businesses across the nation. - read more
As a business owner, one of your top priorities is safeguarding your enterprise from unforeseen events that could lead to financial liabilities. Liability insurance is the cornerstone of this protection, offering a safety net against claims that could otherwise derail your business's financial stability. However, it's not just about having insurance; it's crucial to ensure your coverage is current and adequate for your evolving business requirements. - read more
Public liability insurance is an integral safety net designed to protect businesses from the financial risks associated with lawsuits or claims. It provides coverage when a business is found legally responsible for personal injury to a third party or damage to their property. This form of insurance can significantly reduce the burden of legal fees, compensation claims, and other associated costs that may arise from unforeseen incidents. - read more
For tradesmen and trade professionals, venturing into the world of business comes with its set of challenges and risks. Among the myriad of precautions to consider, one critical safeguard stands out for its ability to protect both the tradesperson and their clients: Public Liability Insurance. This form of coverage is not just a safety net; it is a cornerstone of a responsible business practice within the trade industry. - read more
Public liability insurance is a crucial form of protection for both businesses and individuals, safeguarding them against potential claims for personal injury or property damage that occur as a result of their operations or services. In an increasingly litigious society, having this coverage can mean the difference between staying afloat financially and facing business closure due to unexpected claims. - read more
Running a business comes with inherent financial risks. Whether you own a small café or a large construction company, unforeseen incidents can lead to significant financial losses. - read more
Start Here !
Knowledgebase
Income Insurance: Insures your income in the event of you being unable to work due to sickness or accident.