Insurance Challenges Loom for Property Owners with Faulty Infrastructure

4

A particular type of resin-based plumbing, Iplex’s Pro-fit Typlex 1050, has been identified as a repeat offender in this scenario, with homeowners finding themselves in a bind when it comes to home and contents insurance. Prominent insurers such as RAC and QBE have notably declined to continue coverage for properties where these pipes frequently fail, leading to damaging and disruptive water bursts.

The issue was first reported by The West Australian, shedding light on the growing population of homeowners grappling with denied insurance renewals. The severity of financial setbacks has prompted many affected families to seek alternative solutions to rectify these faulty installations swiftly.

It is not just a looming threat to homeowners’ peace of mind; this situation further inhibits property sales. Prospective buyers are deterred by the potential liability and subsequent insurance hurdles, thereby adding to the woes faced by current homeowners. This dynamic introduces an unexpected twist into the property market, where selling typically gives rise to new beginnings rather than fresh complications.

The impacts of faulty infrastructure extend beyond inconvenience. Affected homeowners are forced to undertake immediate renovation works to replace these pipes, often shouldering hefty costs. This predicament is particularly harsh in cases where properties could otherwise gain quick market traction. Recent examples illustrate situations where real estate sales came late in the process, once all essential rectifications and confirmations of insurance renewals were in place.

To mitigate these risks, experts recommend a proactive approach of engaging qualified inspectors to ascertain potential liability points in plumbing systems during pre-purchase inspections, an extra safeguard for both buyers and sellers.

Simultaneously, organizations servicing the plumbing industry emphasize the need for increased regulatory scrutiny and manufacturer guarantees on fittings and materials. By addressing these root causes, the cycle of insurance denial can be broken, fostering greater stability in property transactions.

The urgency to remove faulty piping systems quickly reflects not only residents' frustration but also the necessity for changes within the industry, aiming to alleviate the burden on those caught in this web of insurance and infrastructure woes.

Published:Tuesday, 15th Oct 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

NSW and SA Initiate Trials for Increased Mass Limits on Zero-Emissions Trucks

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move towards sustainable transport, New South Wales (NSW) and South Australia (SA) have commenced trials permitting higher mass limits for zero-emissions trucks. This initiative aims to encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly heavy vehicles by addressing existing regulatory constraints. - read more

Austroads Survey Uncovers Safety Concerns with Overseas Licensed Heavy Vehicle Drivers

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

A recent survey conducted by Austroads has brought to light significant safety concerns regarding overseas licensed heavy vehicle drivers operating in Australia. With over 1,900 respondents, the survey aims to inform potential policy changes to enhance road safety and driver competency. - read more

ICA Advocates for Government Reforms to Mitigate Rising Motor Insurance Premiums

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has issued a call for urgent government action to address the escalating costs of motor insurance premiums. Highlighting a 42% increase in comprehensive motor insurance premiums since 2019, the ICA attributes this surge to various systemic cost drivers. - read more

Suncorp's Earnings Surge and Share Buyback Announcement

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Suncorp, a prominent Australian insurer, has reported an 8% increase in full-year cash earnings, reaching A$1.49 billion for the year ending June 30, 2025. This performance exceeded analyst expectations and underscores the company's robust financial health. - read more

ASIC's Legal Action Against RACQ Insurance: What You Need to Know

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced Federal Court proceedings against RACQ Insurance, alleging that the insurer misled more than 570,000 customers through deceptive premium comparison figures in renewal notices issued between September 2019 and December 2024. - read more

Click for more Insurance News