WA Guide
Questions to ask your insurer (WA owner-builder)
Use this as a practical checklist when you call an insurer or broker. The goal is to avoid the #1 owner-builder insurance failure: assuming you’re covered when you’re not.
General information only (not financial advice). Always confirm your cover in writing.
60-second call script
Hi — I’m acting as an owner-builder in WA. I want confirmation (in writing) of what insurance I need
before work starts, and what is excluded.
- Do you cover owner-builder projects, and what documents do you need from me?
- I need contract works + public liability (and possibly existing structures) — can you confirm limits and exclusions?
- Will my existing home/building policy remain valid during works? If not, what replaces it?
- What conditions do you require (site security, fencing, lock-up, fire extinguishers, storm tie-downs, etc.)?
- Can you confirm in writing what must be disclosed and what would void cover?
Tip: email yourself a summary immediately after the call (date/time + who you spoke to + what they confirmed).
Full checklist (ask these in writing)
A) Project basics
- Is this a new build, reno, extension, or mixed scope?
- Total build value (labour + materials + subcontractors)?
- Timeframe: start date and expected duration?
- Who will be on site (you + trades)? Any DIY demolition?
B) Contract works (works in progress)
- What events are covered (fire, storm, theft, vandalism)?
- Are materials off-site/in transit covered?
- What’s excluded (poor workmanship, design defects, water ingress, gradual damage)?
- What excess applies (storm/theft often differs)?
C) Public liability
- What limit is recommended (e.g., $10M/$20M) for my site context?
- Does it cover subcontractors’ actions on site?
- Any exclusions for visitors, tools, fences, nearby property?
- Do you require signage / fencing / access controls?
D) Renovations: existing structures
- Will my existing home policy remain valid during works?
- If not, what cover replaces it (and from what date)?
- What’s covered for the existing building (fire/storm/theft) while works happen?
- Are unoccupied periods excluded/limited?
E) “What would void cover?”
- What must be disclosed (scope changes, delays, cost increases)?
- What security measures are required at each stage?
- Weatherproofing obligations (temporary roof/wrap)?
- Electrical / gas / plumbing requirements (licensed trades only)?
F) Selling later (WA)
- If I sell within the relevant period, what insurance is required and when must it be purchased?
- What documents will I need (certificates, permits, evidence)?
- If I don’t plan to sell, do any policies still matter at completion?
WA-specific reminder
WA has owner-builder selling-related obligations tied to the building permit date (e.g., indemnity insurance if sold within 7 years, and permission concerns if selling within 3 years).
Treat this as separate from construction-phase cover — but plan your documentation so you can comply later if life changes.
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This content was built in consultation with industry expert Mark Adams from InsuranceTek Pty Ltd.