Ombudsman Orders Higher Compensation From Insurer Over Mould Dispute

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.

The homeowner, dissatisfied with earlier repair efforts concluded in May 2023, cited an expert analysis revealing ongoing mould contamination. The analysis detailed "moisture migration" from damp materials on the ground floor contributing to mould growth on the upper levels of the home. A mycologist’s inspection in August 2023 uncovered significant fungal spore concentrations throughout the property, including in the insulation and air-conditioning system.

Subsequent investigations indicated elevated spore levels within key areas such as a bedroom and bathroom. The mycologist conclusively stated that the property was not adequately remediated for mould.

Hollard refuted these findings, asserting repair work was satisfactory and contested the reliability of the homeowner's assessments, which were conducted six to ten weeks after Hollard’s expert, WEC, had reportedly verified the mould issues as resolved. Hollard suggested that any ongoing mould presence could be attributed to external factors, such as the homeowner’s pets or workers.

Conversely, the AFCA panel criticised Hollard’s WEC findings for their lack of specificity, primarily relying on generalized airborne mould testing. In contrast, the complainant's experts provided more comprehensive evaluations evidencing persistent mould issues.

The AFCA noted a contradiction in Hollard’s stance, linking the return of mould to non-claimable factors, as this was not in alignment with its own investigations which attempted to undermine the homeowner's findings of mould.

The authority concluded that Hollard had inadequately addressed the mould issue, likely exacerbated by insufficient containment and delays, allowing its spread to the upstairs area of the property.

In light of these findings, AFCA recommended a fair resolution involving a cash settlement to encompass a renewed scope of works with a 15% contingency increase. Moreover, Hollard is required to fund alternative accommodation while the property remains uninhabitable, compensate for any damage from its repair work, and cover the homeowner’s expert costs.

Additionally, Hollard has been mandated to pay a total of $5,400 in damages-$2,500 for the unresolved mould issue and $2,900 for failing to adhere to an earlier AFCA dispute outcome.

Published:Monday, 10th Mar 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

HESTA Announces Significant Insurance Fee Reductions and Enhanced Member Protections

10 May 2026: Paige Estritori

HESTA, a prominent Australian superannuation fund, has unveiled a series of changes aimed at providing more accessible and affordable insurance coverage for its members. Effective from 1 July 2026, these adjustments include an average 12% reduction in insurance fees across all cover types, encompassing death, total and permanent disablement (TPD), and income protection cover. - read more

APRA Implements Reforms to Strengthen Longevity Product Market

10 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has finalised amendments to its prudential standards concerning the capital treatment of longevity products, including annuities. These reforms, set to take effect on 1 July 2026, are designed to bolster the market for retirement income products by supporting innovation and reducing unnecessary regulatory constraints, all while maintaining robust prudential safeguards. - read more

Acenda Introduces Lifestream: A New Guaranteed Income Solution for Retirees

10 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Acenda Life has expanded its offerings in the retirement market with the launch of Lifestream, a guaranteed income product designed to provide retirees with predictable, lifelong income. This initiative addresses the challenges posed by increasing life expectancies and rising living costs, offering a solution that enhances financial confidence for Australians entering retirement. - read more

Australian Government Enacts Stringent Reforms to Protect NDIS Integrity

02 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Government has enacted significant reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to enhance its integrity and sustainability. These measures aim to protect the scheme from exploitation and ensure it continues to serve Australians with permanent and significant disabilities effectively. - read more

TAL Unveils Innovative TPD Support Option and Enhanced Income Protection for Self-Employed Australians

02 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Leading Australian life insurer TAL has announced significant enhancements to its flagship retail product, Accelerated Protection. These updates include the introduction of the Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Support Option and strengthened income protection features tailored for self-employed individuals. - read more

Click for more Insurance News