Browse Forums Owner Builder Forum Re: Owner Builder - Problem getting HBCF Policy from Subbies 2Oct 16, 2017 5:29 pm Coverforce Allrisk Owner-Builder Insurance Experts http://allrisk.com.au/owner-builder-insurance-quote/referrer/HomeOne Re: Owner Builder - Problem getting HBCF Policy from Subbies 3Oct 30, 2017 2:30 pm Allrisk Hi Arnie, Option 1 is possible, but note that splitting a contract with the same contractor still counts as a single contract. You'd need to use multiple contractors to acheive the result. Regarding Option 3, I don't think it does defeat the purpose of being an owner-builder. Many owner builder engage registered builder to do part/s of the project. You'll still be 100% in control of the project, even when the builder is on site. If the builder says otherwise, he's wrong and its important that you are aware of that, as if anything goes wrong you're still in charge of the site. Option 2 is obviously not a great situation, and while it is true that it is a fineable offense, in over ten years specialising in services to owner-builders I've not heard of anyone actually being fined. The more obvious issue is that actual lack of protection for you, but it certainly isn't any worse than the scenario in 'option 1' where you also don't have that cover. Thanks for the detailed response! Re: Owner Builder - Problem getting HBCF Policy from Subbies 4Apr 25, 2018 10:15 pm Arnie1989 Hi All, As an Owner Builder, I’ve got a question regarding the HBCF policy – The HBCF policy is an insurance policy that covers the cost of defective works for 6 years after construction. Typically, the HBCF policy is taken out by the Licensed Builder/Building Company, and covers all the works completed by their subcontractors. However, as an Owner Builder, I am not able to take out a HBCF policy. Instead, I have to ensure that my subcontractor takes out a HBCF policy for any contract works over $20k. The issue is that most subbies are accustomed to working for Licenced Builders/Building Companies, and they are unsure how to/unwilling to take out a HBCF policy. This is making it extremely difficult for me to get them signed onto a contract, and get the works started. Potential solutions – 1) Break the contract works into smaller contracts (under $20k), so no HBCF policy is required 2) Engage the contractor to commence work without the policy in place, even though the contract works are over $20k 3) Engage a builder to do the works (this defeats the purpose of Owner Building, and I do not want to have to do this) Does anyone have any suggestions? If I was to go with solution 1 or solution 2, what would be the repercussions, if any? Thanks in advance. what state are you in ? I apologise for any confusion, but your understanding is correct. We approached our situation differently based on advice from… 11 53226 All 3 items listed are defects and are of concern. Please seek qualified independent inspector and/or legal advice for your state. 1 8233 |