Time limits for cover and claims

How long the insurance lasts

The work is covered for 6 years 6 months from the date (whichever is earlier):

• you pay the premium
• you agree to a contract
• work starts.

The period of cover may be extended where the work takes longer than 6 months to complete. 

Time limits for making a claim

 You must make a claim within certain time limits.

Non-completion claims

• If work has started, the contract must end within 2 years of the day work starts.
• If work has not started, the contract must end within 2 years of the date the contract was entered into.
• You must lodge your claim within 3 months after the date the contract ends.

Defective work claims

Structural defects are covered:

• for 6 years 6 months from the date (whichever is the earlier) of:
  • paying the premium
  • entering into a contract
  • work starting
• if you lodge the claim within 3 months of noticing the defect.

Non-structural defects are covered if you:

• become aware of the defect within 6 months after the day the work is completed
• lodge the claim within 7 months of the day the work is completed.