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 homeowner’s request for compensation after discovering a large pit on his property was denied when it was revealed to be a decommissioned well, rather than a sinkhole.
The deep pit, which measured 4.5 meters, appeared beneath pavers just 1.5 meters away from the house in August 2022.
The homeowner contacted QBE insurance to lodge a claim, prompting the insurer to send a team to cordon off the affected area for safety.
The homeowner argued that the pit had been formed by a leaking pipe and believed the visible water flow at the bottom was evidence of such. He suggested that the water leak had caused soil erosion, exacerbating the formation of the pit.
In response, QBE appointed a forensic structural engineer to investigate. The engineer, assisted by a plumber, conducted several tests and authored three reports on their findings.
The investigation concluded that the pit resulted from the collapse of a well capping that had been in place for over five decades, predating the home's construction according to the neighborhood residents' accounts.
According to the engineer, the old well capping had eroded over time, explaining the presence of water at the base. Nearby sewer and stormwater pipes were examined, and it was found that water flow into the pit had been consistent. A sewer pipe leakage, identified approximately 19 meters from the pit, was determined to be too far away to contribute to its formation.
No legal or physical connection was determined to link the sewer leakage or any nearby pipes to the well's deterioration. The plumber validated the engineer's conclusions, confirming a lack of nearby pipe networks capable of forming a sinkhole.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) later ruled in favor of QBE, citing comprehensive evidence provided by the engineer. The findings firmly established that the pit was a disused well, lacking any evident links to a leaking sewer or other leaks.
AFCA endorsed, "The expert evidence substantiates that the pit originates from a long-decommissioned well existing before the complainant’s house was built. Despite extensive testing, the results indicate no connection between any pipe leaks and the pit’s formation, the water at its base, or the erosion observed."
Though QBE did agree to compensate for incidental damages done during the examination process, including $1122 for the damage to the homeowner’s timber deck and an additional $1500 for the delays in processing the claim, which took over six months.
This case, initially reported by insurancenews.com.au, underscores the critical role of thorough expert investigation to differentiate between naturally occurring subsidence and structural failures caused by other factors.
AUSactive, Australia's peak body for the exercise and active health sector, has announced a significant partnership with Health Partners, a not-for-profit health fund with over 85 years of service to South Australians. This collaboration recognises eligible AUSactive Personal Trainers and fitness businesses as approved providers, allowing Health Partners members to claim benefits for personal training sessions, classes, and gym memberships under their Extras policy when part of a medically necessary health management plan. - read more
AIA Australia, a leading life, health, and wellbeing insurer, has announced partnerships with global fitness company Peloton and premium cycling brand Specialized. These collaborations aim to provide AIA Vitality members with significant discounts and incentives to promote cycling, both at home and outdoors. - read more
In 2024, Australia's insurance sector reported an after-tax profit of $6.1 billion, a significant increase from the five-year average of $2 billion. This surge is primarily attributed to substantial premium hikes and a relatively calm year concerning natural disasters. - read more
Recent research indicates that the Australian federal government signed contracts worth nearly $1 billion with consultancy firms in the last financial year, marking a 48% increase from the previous year. This development comes despite the government's commitment to reduce reliance on external consultants. - read more
The Australian insurance industry is currently navigating a challenging landscape shaped by escalating construction costs and persistent labour shortages. These factors are significantly influencing the nature and volume of insurance claims, particularly within the construction sector. - read more
Life insurance is a fundamental component of a robust financial plan, yet its significance is often underestimated. It serves as a safety net, ensuring that your loved ones are financially secure in the event of your absence. Understanding life insurance is the first step towards safeguarding your family’s future. - read more
Life insurance is an essential safety net for families, providing financial security when it's needed the most. As your family grows, the importance of having a well-structured life insurance policy becomes even more critical. In the busy lives we lead today, it’s easy to overlook this crucial aspect of financial planning. However, ensuring your coverage meets your family's evolving needs is vital. - read more
Life insurance is a cornerstone of financial planning, offering peace of mind to you and security for your loved ones. It's a contract between you and an insurance company: in exchange for regular premiums, the insurer agrees to pay a sum of money to designated beneficiaries upon your passing. This vital tool ensures that your family's financial needs can be met during an incredibly difficult time. - read more
When it comes to life insurance, a pre-existing condition refers to any medical condition or illness that you have been diagnosed with before applying for a life insurance policy. - read more
Life insurance is a crucial consideration for middle-aged to older Australians. It provides financial security for your loved ones in the unfortunate event of your death. Understanding the various options available is vital to making an informed decision. - read more
Start Here !
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!
Knowledgebase
Policyholder: The individual or entity who owns the insurance policy.
