New Water Restoration Standard Revolutionises Claims Handling in Australia
New Water Restoration Standard Revolutionises Claims Handling in Australia
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 recently introduced Australian standard is set to transform the landscape of water damage restoration, enhancing consistency and quality in claims handling while bolstering consumer protection.
This development, according to industry professional Jeremy Stamkos, Managing Director of RIC Solutions and chair of the Standards Australia committee, positions the sector at the forefront of global best practices.
Stamkos highlights that the formal adoption of the AS-IICRC S500 standard is a pivotal moment for the industry. It provides a rigorous and scientifically supported framework for the assessment and restoration of water damage, ensuring that practices align with international guidelines and improving overall standards within Australia.
The importance of this standard cannot be overstated, particularly as weather-related incidents and water leak events are among the quickest growing claim categories in the nation. By setting a definitive benchmark for best practices, the new standard aims to minimise disputes, streamline the claims process, and improve risk management strategies.
The AS-IICRC S500 was developed by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and plays a crucial role in aligning Australian restoration processes with those on a global scale. This alignment fosters collaboration among insurers, contractors, and consultants by establishing a shared technical framework, thus ensuring better outcomes in restoration tasks.
Overall, the adoption of this standard marks a significant step forward for the industry, promising to enhance the quality of water restoration work while providing a safer, more reliable framework for all stakeholders involved in the claims process.
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.
In recent years, Australian insurance premiums have experienced a notable increase, driven primarily by escalating claims costs and the frequency of natural disasters. This trend has significant implications for homeowners and businesses across the country. - read more
Australia's insurance industry is currently grappling with an unprecedented surge in consumer complaints, primarily stemming from significant delays in processing claims. This trend has raised concerns about the efficiency and responsiveness of insurers in meeting policyholders' needs. - read more
Australia's insurance industry is characterised by a high level of market concentration, with four major companies-Insurance Australia Group (IAG), Suncorp, QBE, and Allianz-controlling nearly 75% of the general insurance market. This dominance has sparked discussions about the implications for competition and consumer choice. - read more
In 2026, Australian insurers are confronting significant challenges related to premium affordability. A recent survey by Gallagher Bassett highlights that 22% of local respondents identify premium affordability as their foremost concern. This issue is primarily driven by escalating claims costs, climate-related losses, and technological advancements in fraud, all of which are influencing pricing, underwriting, and capital allocation strategies. - read more
Despite facing an increasingly complex and interconnected risk landscape, Australia's non-life insurance industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience. According to a recent report by AM Best, the top 10 Australian non-life insurers reported a combined insurance revenue of nearly AUD 46 billion for the fiscal year ending 30 June 2025, marking an 11.1% increase from the previous year. - read more
In response to widespread industry concerns over substantial premium increases, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has taken decisive action to freeze unjustified baseline premium hikes exceeding 25% in the commercial auto insurance sector. This emergency intervention aims to protect independent transport operators and logistics enterprises from immediate financial strain. - read more
Recent analyses reveal a paradox within Australia's insurance sector: despite escalating premiums, insurers are experiencing a downturn in profits. This trend is largely attributed to the financial repercussions of extreme weather events and the subsequent surge in claims costs. - read more
The Australian insurance industry is currently grappling with an unprecedented surge in consumer complaints, primarily stemming from delays in processing everyday claims. Data from the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) indicates that insurance companies are generating a record 100 complaints daily, as they struggle to manage routine claims efficiently. - read more
The Australian insurance landscape is characterized by a high degree of market concentration, with four major companies-Insurance Australia Group (IAG), Suncorp, QBE, and Allianz-controlling nearly 74% of the general insurance market. This dominance has raised questions about the level of competition within the industry and its implications for consumers. - read more
In a landmark move, the Australian Parliament has passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Genetic Testing Protections in Life Insurance and Other Measures) Act 2025, effectively banning life insurers from using individuals' genetic test results in underwriting decisions. This legislation, which comes into effect on 8 October 2026, aims to eliminate potential discrimination based on genetic information and encourage Australians to undergo genetic testing without fear of insurance repercussions. - read more
For Australian farmers, livestock is more than just a vital asset; it's the heartbeat of their livelihood. In a land where the sunburnt plains are as relentless as they are beautiful, protecting your herd isn't just a duty; it's a necessity. That's where livestock insurance comes into play—a shield against the unpredictability of Mother Nature. - read more
In the world of agriculture, having the right insurance coverage is essential. Farming is a high-risk industry that deals with unpredictable elements, and insuring your farm equipment can safeguard your livelihood. - read more
As the backbone of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays an essential role in day-to-day operations across our expansive and diverse landscapes. From the vast wheat belts to the tropical fruit farms, machinery ensures efficiency and productivity in the face of constant challenges. But with reliance on such equipment comes significant risk—the financial burden of damage or loss can be devastating to a farmer's livelihood. - read more
Farming in Australia is not just a job, it's a way of life. However, it’s also a livelihood that comes with its own unique set of risks. From unexpected weather events to machinery breakdowns, the life of an Australian farmer is fraught with uncertainties. - read more
Farming, at its core, is an enterprise fraught with uncertainty. Weather calamities, pests, diseases, and fluctuating market conditions can all impact the output and quality of produce. This is where crop insurance proves its worth, serving as a safety net for farmers against the myriad risks they face each season. - read more
Farming is much more than an occupation; it's a way of life and a heritage that often spans generations. In today's ever-evolving agricultural landscape, embracing modern practices while preserving your farm's future has never been more crucial. Estate planning emerges as a pivotal strategy for safeguarding your agricultural legacy, ensuring that your hard-earned investments and the land you hold dear are passed on according to your wishes. - read more
Agroforestry is a transformative approach to land management that integrates trees into agricultural landscapes. In Australia, where farmers contend with variable climates and environmental challenges, agroforestry offers a resilient pathway to productivity and sustainability. - read more
Farming in Australia is more than just a way of life; it is a critical sector that supports the nation’s economy and food supply. However, managing a farm comes with its own set of unique risks. From natural disasters to equipment failures, farmers face numerous challenges that can impact their livelihood. - read more
Farming is a vital industry in Australia, requiring significant investment in equipment, crops, livestock, and labour. As with any major investment, protecting it is crucial. That's where farm insurance comes in. - read more
Welcome to the defining era where technology and agriculture entwine, bringing forth the digital farmer's era. With the evolution of agribusiness in the tech age, comes an array of new tools, opportunities, and risks. As a custodian of the earth and steward of the latest innovations, safeguarding your digital farm is just as crucial as nurturing your crops and livestock. - read more
Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Knowledgebase
Insurance Claim: Notification to an insurance company requesting payment of an amount due under the terms of the policy.