Machinery Breakdown Insurance for Business – FAQs
Machinery breakdown insurance protects businesses against the sudden and unexpected failure of essential equipment. For many businesses, a single mechanical or electrical failure can cause costly downtime, lost revenue, and expensive repairs that standard business insurance does not cover.
This guide explains how machinery breakdown insurance for businesses works, what it covers, and when businesses should consider adding it to their insurance program.
What Is Machinery Breakdown Insurance?
Machinery breakdown insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing machinery that fails due to mechanical or electrical breakdown. Unlike general property insurance, this cover applies to internal failures such as motor burnout, electrical faults, and pressure system failures.
What Does Machinery Breakdown Insurance Cover?
Machinery breakdown insurance may cover:
- Electrical motor burnout
- Power surges and electrical failure
- Mechanical failure of equipment
- Refrigeration and air conditioning breakdown
- Sudden and accidental internal damage
Cover applies to insured equipment essential to business operations.
What Is Not Covered by Machinery Breakdown Insurance?
Typically excluded:
- Wear and tear
- Gradual deterioration
- Poor maintenance
- Pre-existing faults
- Consumables and routine servicing
This is why correct policy structure matters.
Which Businesses Need Machinery Breakdown Insurance?
Machinery breakdown insurance is commonly required by:
- Retail and hospitality businesses
- Manufacturers and workshops
- Commercial property owners
- Medical and professional practices
- Food and beverage businesses
- Offices with critical equipment
Any business relying on powered equipment is exposed to this risk.
Is Machinery Breakdown Included in Business Insurance?
Machinery breakdown insurance is not automatically included in standard business insurance policies. It is usually an optional extension or separate section that must be specifically added.
A business insurance broker can review whether your existing policy leaves gaps in cover.
Machinery Breakdown vs Business Interruption Insurance
Business interruption insurance covers lost income resulting from an insured event.
In many cases, both are required to fully protect a business following equipment failure.
Machinery Breakdown Insurance FAQs
Does machinery breakdown insurance cover electrical failure?
Sometimes, but not always.
Machinery breakdown insurance can cover electrical failure, but only when the policy specifically includes electrical breakdown.
In some policies, electrical failure is a separate option or extension, meaning it is not automatically included and must be added to the cover.
That’s why policy wording matters, many standard business policies exclude electrical failure unless electronic breakdown is taken out separately.
How much does machinery breakdown insurance cost?
Premiums vary depending on the type of equipment, values insured, and risk profile of the business.
Is refrigeration equipment covered?
Refrigeration and cooling equipment can be insured under machinery breakdown policies, which is critical for many businesses.
Do small businesses need machinery breakdown insurance?
If equipment failure would stop operations or cause major costs, this cover should be considered regardless of business size.
Machinery breakdown insurance should be structured to work alongside your broader business insurance program. An insurance broker can identify coverage gaps and ensure your policy reflects how your business actually operates.
A Guide To Understanding Endorsements, Exclusions, and Extensions in Your Business Insurance Policy.
Navigating your business insurance policy as an Australian business can be difficult. When you need your business insurance most, you probably won’t have time to break down the definitions that make up your insurance policy. There are terms like ‘endorsements’, ‘exclusions’ and ‘extensions’ you may notice in your agreement and wonder what they mean. The truth is, insurance policies don’t look the same for everyone, so it’s important to understand what it looks like for you.
At Morgan Insurance, we want you to navigate your insurance policy and claims with confidence. That’s why we’ve broken down the terms you need to understand in this blog, so you’re not in the dark about the terms and conditions of your policy.
Recap: What Is A Business Insurance Policy?
Business insurance protects your company from any financial losses that may be incurred as a result of unexpected circumstances. This includes property damage, legal action, employee injuries, theft and business operation interruption. It allows you to recover financially and maintain your operations whilst you manage the disruptions caused.
However, business insurance is typically a standard package that covers the basics. You can personalise your cover to your business and its needs. This is where the 3 E’s come into play (exclusions, endorsements and extensions).
Exclusions:
Exclusions refer to what your policy does not cover you for. These will be outlined in your insurance policy, and you must understand them clearly so that if you need to make a claim, you are not surprised by what you’re liable for individually. Some common exclusions that apply to most business insurance policies include:
- Acts of War
- Asbestos
- Prior incidents or damages
Endorsements:
Endorsements are the special adjustments you can make to your policy to cover the gaps caused by your exclusions. For instance, if your business is more at risk of flooding due to its location, you can add a ‘Flood Cover Endorsement’ at an additional premium to ensure that you’re covered. This is where the collaboration of a broker is particularly useful, as they can identify any gaps in your cover that may leave you vulnerable, and negotiate endorsements that protect your business.
Extensions:
This refers to extras in your cover that are pre-existing and come at no extra cost to you, but you may not be aware of them. So, your protection is made more robust with these extensions. For example, an extension might cover your legal costs for attending court where legal action has been taken, as well as covering the claim amount.
How A Broker Like Morgan Insurance Can Help You
As experts, Morgan Insurance can help you navigate the ins and outs of your business insurance policy to ensure that you’re prepared and protected for the worst. We’re your partner throughout the entire process. From when we meet with you to understand your business’s unique risks, right through to when you need to make a claim. So, what can we do for you?
- We understand the industry and market better than anyone, so we can secure you a policy that is tailored to your business’s objectives.
- We’ll negotiate the best terms and conditions for your insurance policy that work in your best interest.
- We’ll identify any gaps or risks in your current insurance.
- You’ll receive professional advice on how to stay prepared and ensure your business is protected if you need to make a claim.
- We’ll manage the entire process for you, so it’s one less thing that you need to worry about. We let you focus on your business.
Get Ahead Of The Game
Understanding your business insurance policy doesn’t have to be complicated when you have Morgan Insurance by your side. The truth is, if you need to claim on your policy, the last thing you need is to be breaking down what it all means. We know you need to focus on getting your business back on track, so that’s exactly what we’ll let you do.
We’ll act like a business partner, supporting you from start to finish. It’s never been easier when you trust the experts.
Get started by reaching out to our team
The Dangers of Underinsurance for Commercial Properties and How to Avoid It
Insurance for commercial property owners is crucial as it protects your investment from legal liability and any loss of income you may experience. With that being said, the dangers of underinsurance when it comes to your commercial property can leave you with protection gaps, which can leave you financially liable when you least expect it.
In the event of a catastrophe, like a fire or a storm, your commercial property can be severely affected. You don’t want to wait until you need to file a claim to realise that you’re not covered for the damage. So, what does underinsuring mean, and how can you avoid it as a landlord?
What Is Underinsurance?
Underinsurance refers to when your insurance policy insures you for less than the cost to repair your property. So, in the event of a claim, your insurance payout may not cover the damages and reconstruction required, meaning you need to pay it out of pocket.
How Does It Happen?
Underinsurance can happen for a number of reasons. The truth is, understanding your commercial property insurance can be difficult when there are so many terms and details to consider. That’s why we recommend using a broker like Morgan Insurance to help you navigate your insurance and ensure you’re protected. Some of the reasons your policy may leave you underinsured include:
- Building Cost Inflation: Building costs include labour and material costs, which may have risen significantly since you obtained your policy.
- Ignored Soft Costs: Soft costs are costs that can be incurred outside of construction. They include architectural fees, council approval fees, debris removal and loss of rent.
- Renovations: If your property has been renovated or upgraded since the last valuation, your insurance won’t be adjusted accordingly.
- Premium Savings: To lower premiums when you obtain your insurance policy, you may have claimed a lower amount, which leaves you unprotected in the long term.
How Is It Dangerous?
The obvious answer is that, as you are underinsured for the total amount you’ll need to get back on your feet, you’ll be left paying for it alone. However, it’s a little more complicated than at first glance. A common misconception is that if you’re underinsured by 50%, then your insurer will only pay the other 50%. This is not the case.
Actually, your insurer will only pay for the proportion of the loss that you’re underinsured for.
Here’s an example:
| Replacement Value: $1,000,000 |
| Sum Insured: $800,000 (i.e. 20% underinsured) |
| Claim Amount: $100,000 |
| Payout: $80,000 |
Avoiding Underinsurance: What To Do
To avoid underinsurance with your insurance policy and ensure that you’re appropriately covered when you most need it, there are a couple of things that you can do.
- Regular Valuation: Your property is due to change year in, year out, so the best way to stay updated with the true cost of replacing it is by having it regularly valued.
- Review Your Policy: Understand your policy thoroughly with regular reviews to ensure that any cost inflation is accounted for.
- Factor In ALL Costs: Ensure that the sum you’re insured for factors in all your costs (including professional fees, removal costs and a contingency buffer to be safe).
The Best Thing To Do:
The best thing you can do is contact an insurance broker who can navigate the details of your policy for you to ensure that you’re fully protected in the event of an emergency. Morgan Insurance Brokers are experts in navigating the market and finding an insurance policy that makes sense for your investment.
It’s normal to be overwhelmed when you’re trying to understand the terms and conditions yourself. That’s what we’re here for. You don’t want to be confused when it’s crunch time. Contact our team today for expert guidance on your commercial property insurance.
Morgan Insurance As Your Partner
We’ll do more than find you a policy that protects you- we’ll review it, negotiate competitive terms and ensure you’re up to speed on what that means for you. When the worst happens, you’ll have enough on your plate without having to worry about your insurance too. We’ll handle it for you.
Get started with Morgan Insurance today and get in touch.
The Underwriting Process for Income Protection and Life Insurance Explained
Most people don’t think about underwriting until they’re knee-deep in an application and suddenly an insurer wants medical records, a blood test, or details about a back injury from years ago. It can feel intrusive, slow, and unnecessarily complicated. However, underwriting is simply the way insurers work out your level of risk so they can offer you the right cover at the right price.
If you understand how the process works, you’ll find the whole experience a lot smoother. Here’s what happens behind the scenes, and how Morgan Insurance Brokers helps you navigate it.
What is Underwriting?
Underwriting is the assessment process insurers use to decide three things:
- Can they offer you cover?
- How much will it cost?
- Do they need any exclusions or special conditions?
Think of it this way: insurers are taking on the financial risk of your future. They need to know enough about your health, job, and lifestyle to judge how likely you are to claim. It’s all about pricing the risk fairly and making sure the policy will hold up when you need it most.
Underwriting for Life Insurance vs Income Protection
While the basic idea is the same, the focus shifts depending on the type of cover.
Life Insurance
Life insurers are looking at any factors that could affect life expectancy or the likelihood of a major illness developing. That includes medical history, family history, lifestyle habits, and sometimes your occupation.
Income Protection
With income protection, the insurer’s priority is whether an injury or illness could stop you from working. So your job duties and income history matter more. They also look closely at past injuries or chronic conditions that could flare up and keep you out of work.
The Underwriting Process Step-by-Step
Think of underwriting as a series of checkpoints. Here’s what happens the moment you submit your application.
Step 1: Application Submission
You start by choosing the type of cover and the amount you want. Our team at Morgan Insurance Brokers helps shape that early on. This means you’re not applying for unnecessary amounts. Once the application is submitted, the insurer opens a case. That’s when the underwriting begins.
Step 2: Personal Statement/Questionnaire
This is where you answer questions about your:
- Health
- Lifestyle
- Occupation
- Income
It’s important to answer honestly and thoroughly. People worry that disclosing too much will hurt their application, but failing to disclose something is what causes issues later. A clean, complete statement gets better results every time.
Step 3: Additional Information/Medical Assessments
If the underwriter needs more detail, they’ll ask for it. This might include:
- GP reports
- Specialist letters
- Blood tests
- Imaging results
- Income verification
- Clarification on job duties
This step is normal and doesn’t mean your application is in trouble. It just means the insurer wants accuracy before they commit.
Step 4: Assessment by Underwriter
The underwriter reviews everything collected. They weigh up the risks and compare your profile to the insurer’s guidelines. Based on that, they make a decision.
There are four typical outcomes:
- Standard terms, which means full cover at standard rates.
- Loading involves a higher premium because the risk is higher.
- Exclusion in which certain conditions are not covered.
- Decline; this is rare, and usually only when risks are very high or uninsurable.
If there’s anything unexpected, we negotiate with the insurer or approach another one better suited to your profile. No two insurers underwrite the same way — which is exactly why having a broker matters.
Step 5: Outcome & Policy Issuance
Once underwriting is complete, you receive your final terms. If you’re happy with them, the policy is issued. Cover starts as soon as the policy is active. Waiting periods and benefit periods apply for income protection, but life insurance generally begins immediately.
Why Choose Morgan Insurance Brokers for Life & Income Protection Cover
Underwriting is a detailed process. Having someone who knows the system, knows the insurers, and knows how to present your case properly makes a huge difference.
At Morgan Insurance Brokers, we handle the entire process. We help you:
- Select the right insurer based on your occupation, health, and needs
- Manage all underwriting communication
- Clarify medical requests, so you know exactly what’s required
- Negotiate loadings or exclusions where possible
- Ensure you understand the policy before you accept it
If you are uncertain whether your current insurance offers comprehensive coverage, or if you are beginning to evaluate your options, we encourage you to contact us today.
At Morgan Insurance Brokers, we strive to get you covered appropriately with terms that hold up when life doesn’t go to plan.
The Ultimate Guide to Tradies' Tool Insurance: Valuation, Security, and Claims
The business of insurance is a little different when it comes to tradies. There’s a whole world of risks to consider, including workplace injuries, equipment damage and liability claims. In the trades (plumbers, electricians, plumbers and carpenters), their tools aren’t just equipment, but they are the business itself. Without their equipment or the proper equipment, they can’t do their job.
So it’s no surprise that tradies insure their tools and equipment. This helps to protect their financial stability, workflow and reputation. However, there are some key considerations when it comes to tool insurance. At Morgan Insurance, we value the importance of understanding your insurance policy and ensuring that you’re equipped with the knowledge to navigate your claims with confidence.
So, here’s our guide to a tradie's tool insurance:
Valuation: The Foundation
Let’s take it back to the basics. It’s common for tradies to be underinsured due to their foundations. Valuation ensures that your tools' worth and costs are appropriately accounted for, so if you need to make a claim, you get exactly what you’re missing. Some things to consider are:
- Market Value: Stay updated with your tool’s value, as it can increase or decrease in value and leave you with a gap in your insurance.
- Replacement Costs: Consider how much it would cost to replace your tool entirely to effectively prepare for the worst.
- Item List: It can seem tedious, but it is important to list all your items and tools of high value to ensure that you’re fully covered. This can include tools such as laser levels and diagnostic equipment.
- Documentation: Evidence is important. Keep receipts, photos and other documents that prove the contents of your toolkit.
Security: Conditions and More
Insurance claims can be rejected due to beliefs of negligence, where damage or stolen property can be due to a lack of security on the owner’s behalf. To avoid this, you should take precautions to ensure that security is maintained. The conditions of your insurance policy will impact your claims success, like:
- Understand Your Policy Requirements: Your policy will likely detail that your tools must be stored in a locked vehicle or building. This way, if they are damaged or stolen, this will not be through any negligence on your behalf. There may also be specific requirements for storing tools overnight, so it is important to understand your policy thoroughly.
- Cover Gaps: Common tool insurance exclusions include wear and tear and disappearance, where there is no evidence of theft, broken entry, etc.
So, take your own measures to ensure that your policy works for you and not against you. For instance, secure your vehicle with alarms, keyed storage boxes and avoid leaving your tools in visible areas.
Claims: Step-by-Step
When the worst happens, and you need to make a claim, you’ll want to make sure you do everything right. With an insurance broker like Morgan Insurance by your side, you can ensure that everything is taken care of. But following these steps will ensure a smoother process:
- Act: If any damage or theft occurs, take any photos as evidence and immediately call the police.
- Claim: Contact your broker to submit your claim. They’ll ask for any necessary and supporting documentation that you can provide (i.e. photos, receipts, etc).
- Excess: Your insurance policy should detail what your excess is (i.e. how much you’re liable to pay upfront before your insurance covers the rest). Understanding this is important as it ensures there are no surprises when you’re filing a claim.
It’s normal to miss steps and overlook certain details. That's why we recommend using a broker like us to help you navigate your claim process and ensure you get the outcome you deserve, every time.
Navigate Your Tool Insurance With Morgan Insurance
We’re insurance experts, so when you trust us to navigate your policy and claim for you, you can sit back and relax. The truth is, most of us barely have time to read through the conditions of our insurance policy, let alone navigate the claim process ourselves. That’s what we’re here for.
You don’t want to risk missing vital information and conditions, as this can leave you vulnerable when it’s crunch time. Protect your tools and your business with tool insurance. Morgan Insurance can help you get started. Contact our team today.
Key Person Insurance: How to Protect Your Business from Losing a Vital Employee
The sum of a company’s success is its people. Specifically, the people you can’t afford to lose. One day, a key employee, maybe a team leader, project manager, or business partner, leaves, falls sick, or passes away unexpectedly. Suddenly, the work grinds to a halt. The whole operation starts to feel fragile. That’s where Key Person Insurance comes in.
What is Key Person Insurance?
At its heart, Key Person Insurance is about protecting your business if you lose someone you simply can’t replace overnight. It’s not like personal life insurance, which is set up to support a family. This cover is taken out by the business itself, on a key employee whose knowledge, contacts, or experience keeps things running smoothly. The business pays the premiums, and if something serious happens, the financial support goes back into the company.
Think of it as breathing room when you need it most. It gives you the funds to steady the ship, bring in a replacement, and deal with any commitments that suddenly become harder to manage. Instead of scrambling to survive, you get time to regroup and make clear decisions under pressure.
Why Businesses (Especially SMEs) Need Key Person Insurance
If you run a small to medium enterprise (SME), the impact of losing a single person can be catastrophic. Large corporations often have departments, backups, and layered talent. SMEs? Not so much. Losing a top salesperson, a lead technician, or a founder can hit your bottom line hard. Here’s why it matters:
- Revenue dependency: Some businesses rely heavily on one person to bring in clients or close deals. Lose that person, and your pipeline dries up.
- Operational disruption: Certain employees hold specialised knowledge, like construction methods, regulatory know-how, or supplier contacts. If they’re gone, projects stall.
- Investor reassurance: Investors want to know the business isn’t entirely tied to a single individual. Key Person Insurance gives them that confidence.
- Loan approvals: Banks and lenders sometimes require key-person coverage before approving business loans, especially if a particular person is integral to repayment plans.
The bottom line? Key Person Insurance is all about guaranteeing stability and peace of mind.
How Key Person Insurance Actually Works (in Practice)
The business identifies a “key person”, someone whose absence would materially impact profits. The company buys a policy on that individual, paying the premiums. The payout is structured in various ways, depending on the policy and needs:
- Lump sum payout: For covering immediate financial shocks, such as lost revenue, hiring temporary staff, or paying off urgent debts.
- Income replacement: Some policies provide regular payments to offset lost profit until the business gets back on its feet.
- Recruitment and training: Finding and training a replacement can be costly. Insurance proceeds can cover those costs.
It’s not complicated, but it is precise. You need to calculate the real financial impact of losing that person. Think revenue, client relationships, and the time and cost of recruitment. A poorly valued policy isn’t much help when the pressure’s on.
Is Key Person Insurance Tax Deductible?
Generally, no. Premiums for Key Person Insurance are not tax-deductible as a business expense if the business is the beneficiary.
If the policy is structured to provide employee benefits, such as a supplemental death benefit, there may be limited circumstances under which part of it could be deductible. However, for standard Key Person coverage, deductibility is typically not an option.
When Should a Business Consider Key Person Insurance? (Situations & Red Flags)
Not every employee needs a policy. You don’t insure the receptionist or the junior admin, unless they happen to handle something unusually critical. Consider coverage for individuals who:
- Drive a significant portion of revenue
- Hold specialised technical knowledge
- Maintain unique client relationships
- They are founders or executive-level leaders
- They are indispensable for regulatory compliance or operational processes
Red flags to watch for:
- Overreliance on a single person for sales or contracts
- Business performance is tightly tied to an individual’s skill set
- Succession plans that are weak or nonexistent
- Investor or lender pressure to secure continuity
If any of these apply, you should be thinking about Key Person Insurance.
Protect Your Business Today with Key Person Insurance
At the end of the day, Key Person Insurance isn’t about paranoia. Every business has vulnerabilities, and the loss of a key employee is one of the most expensive. A well-structured policy buys time; time to adjust, recruit, and keep clients happy without letting one event tank the company.
Morgan Insurance Brokers ensures your business can safeguard its essential team members with coverage that goes beyond standard policies. Reach out to us today for more information.
What Are The Unique Insurance Risks of a Vacant Commercial Property?
Most landlords have experienced a vacant commercial property at one point or another. If a sale is pending, or a tenant moves out of the property, or renovations are underway. Did you know that during this vacant period, your insurance policy does not continue as normal?
At Morgan Insurance, we’re committed to a transparent partnership as your trusted broker, so we know it’s important to ensure you understand your policy. A vacant property can pose significant risks to a landlord as it becomes unprotected during this time. It’s easy to assume that everything will resume as normal when your property is in between stages, but the truth is, it could leave you vulnerable and liable for situations that are out of your control. So, what are some of the risks of a vacant commercial property when it comes to insurance?
Let’s break it down.
The 5 Major Risks:
Despite your property being vacant, other risks may leave you liable as the property owner. Most of the time, these risks are unexpected, so it is important that the terms of your commercial property insurance are clear and understood. The 5 big risks you may face include:
-
Vandalism
An empty property is at high risk for graffiti, public vandalism and destruction (i.e. broken windows and damaged structure). As there are no inhabitants, there will most likely be nobody present to report or prevent these events from occurring. It could be a while before you detect that vandalism has occurred, by which point, you could be liable for further damage that has been caused.
-
Theft
A form of theft, known as stripping, is a high risk for your property while it's vacant. Thieves identify these properties as lower-risk, often ‘stripping’ them of air conditioning units, metals, fixtures and electrical wiring. This can result in damage that is higher in value than what’s been stolen, as it damages the structure and function of your property.
-
Fire
Whether there is an accidental fire or by means of arson, a fire is a huge risk to your property. There is nobody present to detect smoke and prevent the spread of the fire. It is also easy for electrical faults or issues to go unnoticed, which increases the damage that the fire can do to your property.
-
Water Damage
Water damage, either from a leak, a burst pipe, or stormwater damage, can go unnoticed and untreated for weeks or months. This is where major damage occurs to your property as it can create mould growth, collapsed ceilings and structural damage.
-
Public Liability/ Trespassing
A vacant property is at high risk of trespassing (squatters, homeless individuals, etc). If a trespasser is injured on the property, as the property owner, you will be liable.
Why Your Standard Policy Isn’t Enough
Most commercial property insurance policies have a ‘vacancy clause’, which means that after a period of vacancy (usually 30 or 60 days, although it is best to refer to your policy for clarity), your coverage will automatically be excluded or reduced due to the risks above. So, you’ll be paying for an insurance policy that won’t protect you or your property during this time.
How Can Morgan Insurance Help You?
If your property is due to be vacant for a period of time, it is best to be prepared for the worst-case scenario by obtaining vacant property insurance (or unoccupied property insurance). This policy is designed to protect you from unexpected risks during the vacancy period and provides coverage for:
- Fire
- Public Liability
- (Optional add-ons) Vandalism and Water Damage.
At Morgan Insurance, we want to ensure that you’re protected from all angles. So, aside from your additional insurance policy, we recommend that you take actions that ensure your property is more secure. For example:
- Board up windows, add security fencing and high-quality locks and bolts if necessary.
- Install monitored alarm systems and ‘no trespassing’ signs.
- Ensure that the property is regularly inspected so you can be updated with signs of forced entry, damage and infestations.
- Maintain the exterior of the property so it doesn’t look uninhabited.
- Maintain your utilities (i.e. shut off your water to prevent leaks).
Minimise Your Risks With Morgan Insurance
We understand the ins and outs of insurance policies, so we can help you navigate the best terms to ensure your property is protected, even when it's vacant. When your property is vacant, it’s hard to stay updated on what happens inside, and you don’t want to be left liable for extreme damages or legal action. As your broker, Morgan Insurance will be with you every step of the process, from when we find you an insurance policy that works, right up to if you need to make a claim.
Don’t wait until tomorrow, protect your property today. Contact our experts today to ensure you’re prepared for your vacancy period.
Beyond Salary: Does Income Protection Cover Bonuses, Commissions, and Overtime?
Most working professionals will understand that their base salary isn’t the full picture. The modern reality is that professionals also rely on bonuses, commissions and overtime pay to supplement their total income. However, standard income protection policies will only cover your base salary or main source of income, which can leave your additional amounts unprotected in the worst-case scenario.
So, how can you ensure that your entire income (including add-ons) is protected when you’re unable to work and need time to recover? Morgan Insurance are dedicated to ensuring you get the most out of your policy, and the only way to do that is by breaking down everything you need to know.
What Does Standard Income Protection Insurance Cover?
Income protection insurance is designed to replace a portion of your income if you’re unable to work due to an unexpected illness or injury. Income protection insurance then provides monthly payments (for a specified period of time), typically up to 70% of your pre-taxable income, to help you meet expenses while you recover.
It is important to confirm with your insurer what they define as your ‘income’. Most insurers will only cover your base salary as income; however, you may be able to agree on a comprehensive, tailored package, which tends to be more flexible.
Your Salary Explained:
If your insurer is working up terms that include your income add-ons (i.e. bonus, commission and overtime pay), there may be some questions that help qualify this additional income under your income protection insurance. There are some elements to consider, for example:
- Bonuses: Are your bonuses guaranteed or discretionary (performance-based)? These will be treated differently as discretionary bonuses are not regular, and cannot, therefore, be considered part of your regular income.
- Commissions: As commission pay can vary across months, let alone years, insurers will usually look at a 2-3 year average to determine a stable amount that they can use as an estimate.
- Overtime: They will look at whether your overtime is regular and reliable or on a one-off basis. If evidence can be shown for regular overtime (i.e. through payslips and tax returns), it can be considered as part of your regular income.
What Evidence Do You Need?
As your additional income isn’t visible through regular payslips, you will need to prove to your insurer that it is a regular income through other methods. They may request evidence or supporting documents, like:
- Last 2-3 years of tax returns
- Employment contracts that state a bonus structure
- Recent payslips where regular overtime can be identified
To ensure that your income protection insurance reflects your total income and protects you properly if you need to be out of work, you must detail all your regular forms of income and provide evidence to your insurer.
Why You Need Income Protection Insurance
This very much depends on your individual circumstances and current financial situation. The truth is, if you rely on your income, particularly additional income, you need income protection insurance. There are several questions you can ask yourself when deciding whether income protection insurance is right for you. For example:
- Do I have savings or other financial safety nets to cover my expenses?
- What are my monthly living costs (e.g. rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, debts)?
- Do I have dependents who rely on my income?
- Is this a short-term safety net, or do I need long-term coverage?
- Is my job considered high-risk or physically demanding?
- Does my employer provide any income protection or disability cover?
If you are still unsure, seek advice from a qualified professional who can help you determine the right level of coverage and policy options for your needs.
How Morgan Insurance Can Help
As market experts, we can compare policies and navigate the market to secure you a policy that works for your lifestyle and protects your income efficiently. We can negotiate favourable terms on your income protection insurance that you won’t find elsewhere. Get the most out of your income protection whilst receiving expert advice from our brokers.
Not only will we get you covered with a policy that works for you, but we’ll be there to handle the process from start to finish if you need to make a claim. If your income is made up of more than just your base salary, it’s worth protecting it. Contact us today, and we’ll get you started.
The Complete Guide to Owner Builders Insurance
Taking on an owner-builder project is exciting, but it also comes with significant risks. From construction mishaps to unexpected weather events, a lot can go wrong during a build or renovation. That’s where Owner Builders Insurance comes in. It’s designed to protect both your property and your financial investment while ensuring you’re covered for accidents, liability, and loss.
What Is Owner Builders Insurance?
Owner Builders Insurance is a specialised policy designed for people managing their own construction or renovation project without hiring a licensed builder to take full responsibility. It typically includes cover for:
- Contract Works / Material Damage (damage to the works during construction)
- Public Liability (injury to others or damage to their property)
- Optional Extras such as home contents, tools, and personal accident cover
This insurance fills the gap between traditional home insurance and builder-managed insurance.
Why Should You Have It?
1. Protect Your Property During Construction
Renovations and builds expose your home to increased risks, fire, theft of materials, vandalism, storms, collapse, and more. Owner Builders Insurance keeps your project protected from costly setbacks.
2. Protection Against Slip-and-Fall Claims
If a neighbour, visitor, or delivery driver slips, trips, or is injured on your site, you are liable. Public liability insurance safeguards you from expensive claims, medical bills, and legal fees.
3. Essential for Lenders and Councils
Many lenders and some councils require owner-builder coverage before construction can begin.
4. Peace of Mind
Accidents happen. Insurance ensures they don’t stop your project or drain your savings.
How Much Owner Builders Insurance Do You Need?
Generally, you should insure the full estimated value of the works, including:
- Materials
- Labour (even if doing some yourself)
- Structural changes
- Extensions
- Site works
Public liability limits typically start at $5 million, with many owner-builders opting for $10–20 million depending on risk.
Morgan Insurance Brokers can help you calculate the right amount based on your project size and exposure.
Will It Cover My Home If It Burns Down?
Yes — if the fire damages the works under construction, Owner Builders Insurance can cover it.
However, for an existing home attached to the works, you may need additional cover or a combined policy. Some insurers automatically include partial coverage; others require add-ons. Morgan Insurance Brokers can guide you through the differences.
Does It Cover Flood?
Some owner-builder policies cover flood, but many do not unless specifically added. This is often optional and depends on your location and risk level. Always check your policy wording, we can help ensure you’re properly protected if your property is in a flood-prone area.
Does It Cover Home Contents?
Yes, some Owner Builders Insurance policies can cover home contents, even during construction.
This is particularly useful if you’re living in part of the home during renovations and need temporary contents protection.
Does It Matter If I Don’t Live There During Renovations?
No, you can still get Owner Builders Insurance if the home is vacant or unoccupied.
However, insurers need to know whether you live on-site, as it affects risk (e.g., higher theft risk in empty homes). Morgan Insurance Brokers will select a policy that matches your residency status.
How Do I Get Owner Builders Insurance?
The easiest way is to use Morgan Insurance Brokers. We:
- Compare policies across multiple insurers
- Make sure you get the right cover for your specific project
- Help you avoid exclusions and gaps
- Handle all paperwork, requirements, and insurer communication
You simply tell us about your project, we do the rest.
What Happens in the Event of a Claim?
If something goes wrong during your build:
- Call Morgan Insurance Brokers immediately.
- We help you lodge the claim with the insurer.
- We assist with required documentation, photos, and reports.
- We negotiate with the insurer on your behalf and keep you updated.
Our job is to make the claims process smooth, fast, and stress-free, so you can focus on your project, not insurance paperwork.
Final Thoughts
Owner-builder projects come with unique risks, but the right insurance ensures you’re protected from start to finish. From slip-and-fall liability to fire, flood, theft, and damage to your construction works, Owner Builders Insurance is essential for anyone taking on their own building project.
Morgan Insurance Brokers can help you get the perfect cover, manage your risks, and support you through any claims.
How to Get Insurance for a Heritage-Listed Home in Melbourne
Owning a heritage-listed home in Melbourne is a privilege and often a dream come true for architecture lovers. From Victorian terraces to Edwardian cottages and art-deco residences, these homes are part of Melbourne’s cultural fabric. But while they offer charm, character and historical value, they also present unique insurance challenges.
Insuring a heritage-listed property is not as straightforward as insuring a modern home. Regulations, restoration requirements and specialist materials can significantly increase repair costs, and not all insurers are willing to take on that risk.
This guide explains exactly how to get the right home insurance Melbourne for a heritage-listed home in Melbourne and why partnering with Morgan Insurance Brokers can make the entire process easier, safer, and more cost-effective.
Why Heritage-Listed Homes Need Specialised Insurance
Heritage-listed homes come with legal requirements that protect their historical significance. These requirements often dictate:
- What materials must be used during repairs
- Which architectural features must be preserved
- What changes or renovations require council approval
- How the property must be maintained
Because of this, restoring a heritage property after a fire, storm, or accidental damage can be far more expensive than repairing a standard home.
Common features that increase restoration complexity:
- Ornate plasterwork
- Imported or discontinued roof tiles
- Hand-crafted timber elements
- Period-specific brickwork
- Stained glass windows
- Decorative verandas and cast iron lacework
These elements require specialist tradespeople and traditional materials, which can significantly raise the cost of repairs. This is why specialised insurance is essential.
Challenges You May Face When Insuring a Heritage Property
If you're trying to insure a heritage-listed property in Melbourne, you might encounter:
1. Limited insurer availability
Many mainstream insurers automatically decline heritage-listed homes because of the higher risk and higher potential claims.
2. Underinsurance risks
If the sum insured doesn’t accurately reflect the cost of heritage-specific restoration, you could be left short during a claim.
3. Strict disclosure requirements
Failing to disclose a heritage listing even unintentionally could void your policy.
4. Higher premiums
Because repair costs can be more significant, premiums can be higher than for equivalent non-heritage homes.
5. Confusion around what is actually covered
Some policies may:
- Exclude heritage features
- Exclude undamaged matching items
- Cap amounts for specialist restoration
Navigating this alone can be overwhelming, which is why working with a specialised insurance broker is so valuable.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Insurance for Your Heritage-Listed Home in Melbourne
Here’s exactly how to secure appropriate cover:
1. Confirm Your Heritage Listing Status
Your home may be:
- Locally listed through your local council, or
- State listed on the Victorian Heritage Register
Each level of listing comes with different rules that insurers need to understand.
2. Understand Your Restoration Obligations
Before insurers can offer a quote, they need to know:
- What materials are permitted
- Which parts of the home must be preserved
- Whether rebuilding must match the original design
A broker can help you gather this information
3. Obtain an Accurate Rebuilding or Restoration Cost Estimate
This is not the same as the property value.
Instead, you need a heritage-specific replacement cost, which may require input from:
- Quantity surveyors
- Heritage builders
- Conservation architects
This ensures you aren’t underinsured.
4. Work With an Insurance Broker Familiar With Heritage Homes
A specialist broker can:
- Identify which insurers will accept heritage listings
- Ensure the policy covers heritage-appropriate reinstatement
- Help assess proper sums insured
- Compare multiple policies for you
This is especially valuable when insurers decline cover directly to consumers.
5. Ensure the Policy Covers “Like-For-Like” Restoration
The right heritage policy should cover:
- Traditional materials
- Specialist tradespeople
- Heritage-approved construction techniques
- Matching undamaged items
This protects the authenticity and value of your home.
6. Review Inclusions, Exclusions and Optional Add-Ons
Key things to check include:
- Storm damage cover
- Fire cover
- Flood cover (if applicable)
- Debris removal
- Temporary accommodation
- Outbuildings and fences that also have heritage significance
This is where a broker’s review becomes essential they know which exclusions matter for heritage properties.
Why Morgan Insurance Brokers Is the Best Partner for Heritage Homeowners
Insuring a heritage-listed property is a specialised area of insurance and Morgan Insurance Brokers has the experience, insurer relationships, and knowledge to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Here’s how they can help:
1. Access to Insurers Who Actually Cover Heritage-Listed Homes
Most standard insurers will decline heritage-listed properties.
Morgan Insurance Brokers, however, work directly with insurers that specialise in:
- Heritage buildings
- Older homes
- High-value properties
- Complex residential risks
This dramatically increases your chances of being accepted and properly protected.
2. Tailored Risk Assessment and Correct Sum-Insured Guidance
Morgan helps you determine the correct rebuilding cost by:
- Reviewing any existing valuations
- Discussing the age and construction type of the home
- Considering heritage-specific restoration requirements
- Factoring in demolition, debris removal and professional fees
This ensures your policy reflects the true cost to restore the home if something goes wrong.
3. “Like-for-Like” Restoration Protection
Morgan knows which insurers offer genuine heritage reinstatement, not just modern substitutes.
They can secure policies that allow:
- Matching materials
- Specialist heritage trades
- Authentic restoration of period features
This is invaluable if your home suffers damage and must be restored to council-approved standards.
4. Guidance Through the Fine Print
Heritage home insurance policies often contain detailed clauses involving:
- Heritage overlays
- Obligations to rebuild “as was”
- Material matching
- Builder qualification requirements
Morgan explains all of this in plain language so you know exactly what you’re covered for.
5. Support During Claims, When You Need It Most
A claim involving a heritage home can be complex and time-consuming.
Morgan Insurance Brokers can:
- Lodge the claim on your behalf
- Communicate with the insurer
- Advocate for fair outcomes
- Help manage the process so you aren’t overwhelmed
This support is often the difference between a smooth restoration and a stressful ordeal.
Preserving History, Protecting Your Home
Owning a heritage-listed home in Melbourne means safeguarding a piece of the city’s history. The right insurance ensures that, no matter what happens, your property can be restored faithfully and responsibly.
Morgan Insurance Brokers takes the guesswork, stress and risk out of the process.
They help you:
- Understand your obligations
- Secure specialist insurance
- Avoid costly underinsurance
- Navigate complex policies
- Protect your home’s historical value
Ready to Protect Your Heritage Home?
Morgan Insurance Brokers can help you find the right insurance solution for your heritage-listed property quickly, professionally and with expert guidance every step of the way.
Get in touch with Morgan Insurance Brokers today to discuss tailored cover for your heritage-listed home in Melbourne.










