Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Ombudsman's Decision Favors Claimants in Solar System Dispute

Ombudsman's Decision Favors Claimants in Solar System Dispute

Ombudsman's Decision Favors Claimants in Solar System Dispute?w=400
Homeowners grappling with damaged solar power systems are set to have a substantial portion of their repair costs reimbursed.
This follows a significant ruling where an ombudsman overruled the insurer IAG's application of an electronic malfunction exclusion in the claim process.

The affected homeowners were initially uncertain about what triggered the malfunction, which rendered their solar system inoperable. They speculated that a storm, coinciding with the onset of the problem, was the cause. They enlisted a solar expert's help, who discovered that a main fuse had blown, and the inverters were rendered ineffective due to component burnout.

The expert attributed the damage to an "external weather event," and repair estimates were pegged at $80,436. Conversely, an expert for the insurer, IAG, challenged this assessment by stating that no evidence of a storm impacting the property was found. IAG also dismissed the possibilities of a power surge or electrical distribution influence, asserting the damages likely arose from a generator failure.

Consequently, IAG refused the claim based on their policy, which excludes damages to electronic equipment due to electrical or mechanical malfunctions. Nonetheless, the claimants contended that their solar system shouldn't fall under the 'electronic equipment' category outlined in the policy.

In its assessment, the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) recognized the damages as "accidental damage." The authority agreed that while the system could be categorized as both electrical and electronic, the insurance policy included a clause that didn't cover electronic failures "unless the breakdown results in loss or damage to insured property."

AFCA criticized the insurer's stance that portrayed the solar system as a single unit without further collateral damage. The breakdown, starting with the fuse failure, didn't imply all involved systems were inherently linked as one unit. According to AFCA, the generator's issue led to ensuing property damage, leaving the entire solar inverter system and panels inoperative.

Although the ombudsman acknowledged the policy exclusion regarding the generator's main control fuse, they concluded the insurer must cover the remaining damages as they were resultant, and not only limited to the generator.

AFCA encouraged both parties to collaborate on resolving the claim, noting that the claimant's repair quote lacked itemization. IAG was advised to carry out its assessment and assure repairs with a lifetime guarantee. If the homeowners have already undertaken the repairs, the insurer is expected to reimburse their expenses.

Published:Friday, 23rd May 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Insurer Ordered to Refund GAP Premium After Unfair Sale Insurer Ordered to Refund GAP Premium After Unfair Sale
28 May 2025: Paige Estritori

A significant decision has been made as an insurer, Eric Insurance, is required to refund a consumer for a Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) policy deemed unfairly sold 13 years ago. The policy stemmed from a $31,000 vehicle loan, and the consumer argued that misleading practices influenced this purchase. - read more
Acenda Extends Premium Relief to Customers Affected by NSW Floods Acenda Extends Premium Relief to Customers Affected by NSW Floods
28 May 2025: Paige Estritori

In response to the severe flooding in New South Wales, Acenda has rolled out a suite of supportive measures for its customers. The life insurer's initiatives aim to mitigate the financial burden faced by affected individuals and families during this challenging period. - read more
QBE Amplifies Cybersecurity Initiatives in Response to Rising Threats QBE Amplifies Cybersecurity Initiatives in Response to Rising Threats
26 May 2025: Paige Estritori

In an era where cyber threats are intensifying and regulatory demands are escalating, insurance giant QBE is significantly enhancing its support for brokers and their clientele. This decisive action was highlighted at a recent cyber insights event held in Sydney. - read more
Rising Life Insurance Coverage Highlights Persistent Knowledge Gap Rising Life Insurance Coverage Highlights Persistent Knowledge Gap
23 May 2025: Paige Estritori

New findings from NobleOak reveal an upward trend in life insurance coverage among Australians, alongside a persistent gap in understanding of fully underwritten policies. According to the NobleOak Life Insurance Pulse Report, 60% of Australians aged 30 to 60 now hold life insurance, a noticeable increase from 55% the previous year. - read more
Ombudsman's Decision Favors Claimants in Solar System Dispute Ombudsman's Decision Favors Claimants in Solar System Dispute
23 May 2025: Paige Estritori

Homeowners grappling with damaged solar power systems are set to have a substantial portion of their repair costs reimbursed. This follows a significant ruling where an ombudsman overruled the insurer IAG's application of an electronic malfunction exclusion in the claim process. - read more
AFCA Upholds Pause on QBE Claim but Dismisses Fraud Allegation AFCA Upholds Pause on QBE Claim but Dismisses Fraud Allegation
21 May 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has ruled on a dispute involving insurer QBE and a vehicle damage claim. While QBE has been permitted to halt the processing of the claim until the policyholder, a company director, provides additional information, the fraud allegations levied against the claimant remain unsubstantiated. - read more
AFCA Upholds Policyholder's Claim, Dismisses Fraud Allegation in Car Theft Case AFCA Upholds Policyholder's Claim, Dismisses Fraud Allegation in Car Theft Case
19 May 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has dismissed allegations of fraud against a policyholder by Auto & General Services following an unsatisfactory investigation related to a stolen and burnt-out vehicle. The ruling in favour of the claimant highlights procedural gaps in the insurer’s investigation. - read more
Asgard Announces Significant Hike in Insurance Premiums Asgard Announces Significant Hike in Insurance Premiums
16 May 2025: Paige Estritori

Asgard, the investment platform owned by Westpac, has announced substantial increases in insurance premium rates, ranging from 0.7% to 94.6%. This decision comes in collaboration with AIA Australia following a review of its insurance offerings. The changes, which will affect clients with Asgard Personal Protection Packages, are attributed to rising costs, including claims expenses. - read more
ClearView Transitions to Pure-Play Life Insurance, Emphasizes IFA Ties ClearView Transitions to Pure-Play Life Insurance, Emphasizes IFA Ties
14 May 2025: Paige Estritori

ClearView, a publicly-listed insurer, has reaffirmed its commitment as a 'pure play life insurance company' following its strategic exit from the wealth management sector. This transition, finalized in March 2025, completes a multi-year effort pivoting the company towards becoming a technologically advanced life insurance firm. - read more
Life Insurance Prevails as a Financial Priority Despite Economic Strains Life Insurance Prevails as a Financial Priority Despite Economic Strains
13 May 2025: Paige Estritori

Amid ongoing economic challenges, Australians continue to prioritise life insurance, often at the expense of other budgetary items such as holidays, entertainment, and even groceries. This trend is highlighted in an annual survey conducted by NobleOak, which reveals a noticeable rise in life insurance and income protection policies. - read more



Farm Insurance Articles

The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age
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
Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers
In the dynamic world of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of farms. From tractors to harvesters, having the right machinery means managing your farm more efficiently. However, the high value of this equipment makes it essential to protect it adequately through insurance. - read more
From Droughts to Floods: Understanding Weather-Related Coverage in Farm Insurance From Droughts to Floods: Understanding Weather-Related Coverage in Farm Insurance
Australian farmers face a unique set of challenges due to the vast and varied climate conditions that sweep across the continent. From the scorching heat and prolonged droughts of the Outback to the tropical storms and torrential rains of the northern regions, weather-related risks are an integral part of agricultural life in Australia. - read more
Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers
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
A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology A Farmer's Guide to Essential Farm Insurance Terminology
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
Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on navigating the complexities of farm insurance for Australian farmers. As an integral part of the agricultural industry, insurance provides a safety net that helps secure the livelihood of farmers against unpredictable events that can lead to financial hardship. From property damage due to natural disasters to loss of livestock or crops, having adequate farm insurance can make all the difference in keeping a farming operation afloat in times of crisis. - read more
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Hobby farming has become increasingly popular in Australia, with many individuals and families embracing the joys of growing their own produce, raising livestock, and enjoying a rural lifestyle. Whether it's a small vegetable garden, a few chickens, or a larger mixed farming operation, hobby farms offer both relaxation and a connection to nature. - read more
Investing in Your Farm's Legacy: Estate Planning and Farm Insurance Combined Investing in Your Farm's Legacy: Estate Planning and Farm Insurance Combined
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
Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers
Australian farmers face an array of natural disasters that can threaten livelihoods and disrupt the delicate balance of agricultural ecosystems. From devastating bushfires and droughts to powerful storms and floods, these catastrophic events pose serious risks to the farming community. Understanding and preparing for these forces is not just about survival; it's about building a sustainable future for farms across the continent. - read more
5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs 5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs
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
Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums Proven Strategies for Australian Farmers to Reduce Farm Insurance Premiums
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on navigating the complexities of farm insurance for Australian farmers. As an integral part of the agricultural industry, insurance provides a safety net that helps secure the livelihood of farmers against unpredictable events that can lead to financial hardship. From property damage due to natural disasters to loss of livestock or crops, having adequate farm insurance can make all the difference in keeping a farming operation afloat in times of crisis. - read more
Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers Customized Insurance Solutions: The Advantage of Specialized Farm Brokers
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
From Droughts to Floods: Understanding Weather-Related Coverage in Farm Insurance From Droughts to Floods: Understanding Weather-Related Coverage in Farm Insurance
Australian farmers face a unique set of challenges due to the vast and varied climate conditions that sweep across the continent. From the scorching heat and prolonged droughts of the Outback to the tropical storms and torrential rains of the northern regions, weather-related risks are an integral part of agricultural life in Australia. - read more
Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers Understanding Farm Equipment Insurance: A Breakdown for Australian Farmers
In the dynamic world of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of farms. From tractors to harvesters, having the right machinery means managing your farm more efficiently. However, the high value of this equipment makes it essential to protect it adequately through insurance. - read more
The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
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
5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs 5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs
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
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Hobby farming has become increasingly popular in Australia, with many individuals and families embracing the joys of growing their own produce, raising livestock, and enjoying a rural lifestyle. Whether it's a small vegetable garden, a few chickens, or a larger mixed farming operation, hobby farms offer both relaxation and a connection to nature. - read more
The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age The Digital Farmer's Guide to Insuring Your Agribusiness in the Tech Age
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
Agroforestry Insurance Guide: Protecting Your Investment in Australia's Sustainable Future Agroforestry Insurance Guide: Protecting Your Investment in Australia's Sustainable Future
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
Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It? Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It?
Farm liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects farmers from financial losses due to legal claims and lawsuits. This insurance is crucial for safeguarding your farm against various liabilities that may arise from farm operations. - read more

Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Farm Type:
Postcode:

Knowledgebase
Liability Insurance:
Insurance that provides protection from claims arising from injuries or damage to other people or property