Plant And Equipment Insurance Online
Australia's leading Online Insurance resource
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
Source: Paige Estritori
| Australia’s Insurtech Rise: Pioneering Innovation in Insurance 12 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian insurtech sector is steadily gaining prominence with innovative products aimed at boosting efficiency, security, and customer interaction. According to a recent report titled 'Insurtech Down Under: Trends, Tech and Triumphs,' the sector's growth is accelerating, supported by strategic investments and technological advancements. - read more |
| Hacked Company Loses Insurance Battle Over Customer Payment Scam 11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori A company recently faced a significant setback after losing an insurance claim dispute related to funds stolen in a fraudulent email scheme. Cybercriminals infiltrated the business's email system, sending out fake invoices that directed clients to pay into a bogus bank account. Consequently, two customers inadvertently transferred a total of $66,148 to the fraudulent account. Attempts to retrieve this money were unsuccessful, and the customers refused further payments to the company. - read more |
| Australia Underwriting Rises to Meet Complex Insurance Challenges 11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori In an evolving insurance landscape where traditional underwriters are hesitant to cover high-risk scenarios, Australia Underwriting has strategically positioned itself to fill this crucial gap. The company has become recognized for its expertise in handling difficult-to-place insurance risks, often ignored by larger insurers focused on lower-risk ventures. Founded by industry veteran George Vincent, the firm has capitalized on unserved market segments and emerged as a vital player in the Australian insurance space. - read more |
| Ombudsman Orders Higher Compensation From Insurer Over Mould Dispute 10 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has directed insurance provider Hollard to enhance its compensation payout to a homeowner following a failed attempt to remediate mould contamination in the owner’s property. Despite previous repair efforts by Hollard, lingering mould issues persisted, prompting further disputes. - read more |
| Insurance Brokers Challenge Opposition’s Divestment Strategy 06 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s proposal to dismantle major insurance companies to boost competitiveness and reduce premiums has sparked significant pushback from industry brokers. The suggestion, criticized as ineffective, faces opposition from those who argue that the root causes of high premiums lie elsewhere. - read more |
| What does plant and equipment insurance cover? Plant and equipment insurance is a specialized form of coverage designed to protect the tools and machinery that businesses rely on for their operations. This type of insurance typically covers various assets, including construction machinery, agricultural equipment, and industrial tools. By safeguarding these critical assets, you can ensure that your business continues to run smoothly even in the event of loss or damage. - read more
|
| Is Plant and Equipment Insurance a Legal Requirement for Australian Contractors? Plant and equipment insurance is a specialized type of coverage designed to protect construction and contracting businesses against financial losses related to their machinery and tools. This includes any equipment used in the delivery of services, such as excavators, cranes, and other vital equipment. In essence, this insurance safeguards your investment, providing peace of mind as you focus on your projects. - read more
|
| The Factors That Affect Plant and Equipment Insurance Premiums in Australia Plant and equipment insurance is a specific type of policy designed to protect the tools, machinery, and equipment that businesses rely on for their operations. This insurance safeguards against various risks, ensuring that your essential assets are not a financial burden during unforeseen circumstances. - read more
|
| Understanding Business Interruption Insurance for Cafes Business interruption insurance is a specialized type of coverage designed to protect businesses from financial losses due to unavoidable disruptions. Whether it's a natural disaster, a burst pipe, or a local emergency, this insurance helps ensure that the business can continue to meet its financial obligations during downtime. - read more
|
| How to Save Money on Your Farming Insurance Premiums When looking for farming insurance, it is important to shop around for the best deals. Don't simply rely on the first insurance company that you come across. Take the time to research various companies and their policies. Compare them based on their coverage, premiums, and deductibles. - read more
|
|
|
The Factors That Affect Plant and Equipment Insurance Premiums in Australia Plant and equipment insurance is a specific type of policy designed to protect the tools, machinery, and equipment that businesses rely on for their operations. This insurance safeguards against various risks, ensuring that your essential assets are not a financial burden during unforeseen circumstances. - read more
|
|
|
What does plant and equipment insurance cover? Plant and equipment insurance is a specialized form of coverage designed to protect the tools and machinery that businesses rely on for their operations. This type of insurance typically covers various assets, including construction machinery, agricultural equipment, and industrial tools. By safeguarding these critical assets, you can ensure that your business continues to run smoothly even in the event of loss or damage. - read more
|
|
|
Is Plant and Equipment Insurance a Legal Requirement for Australian Contractors? Plant and equipment insurance is a specialized type of coverage designed to protect construction and contracting businesses against financial losses related to their machinery and tools. This includes any equipment used in the delivery of services, such as excavators, cranes, and other vital equipment. In essence, this insurance safeguards your investment, providing peace of mind as you focus on your projects. - read more
|