We're excited to present our members with some information regarding changes to PI Insurance provided by our State Partners, Webber Insurance.
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Who is affected by changes in PI Insurance and why?
We’ve found that the hardest-hit occupations in the recent ‘cladding crackdown’ have been surveyors, fire engineers and professionals working with cladding products on medium/high rise buildings. The insurers are taking a varied approach in their underwriting mentality, however, they’re all taking a very conservative approach.
Will it affect Building Designers? If so in what capacity and why?
It is already having an impact on designers working on multi-residential over 3 storeys, particularly if they’ve worked on projects that are being targeting in the building audits. For residential designers working primarily on class 1, 2 and 10 buildings, we haven’t experienced any adverse conditions with our member insurance scheme. This landscape is constantly changing so it’s likely cases going through the legal system will set a precedent for years to come. Our advice is to exercise extreme caution with products that are currently being targeted (EPS, PE etc.) and consider if there’s a suitable alternative.
What can I do as a Building Designer to prevent any risk?
Some suggestions as follows;
- Do not specify products unless you are absolutely sure they meet the relevant standards
- Ensure all advice is specific, avoid using terms such as ‘light weight cladding’ and specify a material that you know is compliant
- Utilise an engagement agreement with all clients that clearly makes them responsible if they or the builder make any changes to your specified materials
- Stay up to date with news releases from BDAQ, QBCC and other governing bodies
- Partner with reputable product suppliers