Insurance Challenges Loom for Property Owners with Faulty Infrastructure

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 a troubling situation affecting many Western Australian families, defective plumbing is creating significant financial and emotional distress, as insurers increasingly shy away from covering homes plagued by repeated water leaks.

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

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

RACQ Insurance Withdraws Rideshare Vehicle Coverage

23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

RACQ Insurance has recently announced the cessation of coverage for rideshare and food delivery vehicles, effective from November 3, 2023. This decision stems from a notable increase in claims associated with these services, prompting the insurer to reassess its offerings. - read more

AFCA Directs Insurer to Settle Restaurant Arson Claim

23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently ruled in favour of a restaurant owner, directing the insurer to honour an arson claim despite the director's failure to disclose a past criminal conviction. This decision underscores the importance of clear communication and due diligence in the insurance application process. - read more

Upcover Introduces Affordable Management Liability Insurance for SMEs

23 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Upcover, a Sydney-based insurtech company, has recently launched a management liability insurance product tailored specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and sole traders. With premiums starting at $780 per year for a $1 million coverage limit, this offering aims to provide affordable and comprehensive protection against various business risks. - read more