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What Are The Different Kinds of Property Insurance Per State in Australia?
Property insurance in Australia is available nationwide, but it does not operate the same way in every state. While most insurers offer similar general insurance products across the country, state laws, natural disaster risks, building regulations, government levies, and the Insurance Council's guidelines all influence how cover applies, how much it costs, and the insurance…
Do I Need Home Insurance Before Settlement in Australia?
Buying a new home is exciting, but it also comes with legal and financial risks. One of the most common questions home buyers ask is: do I need home insurance before settlement? The short answer is usually yes, even though it is not always a strict legal requirement. In many Australian states and territories, the…
Landlord Insurance Review: How to Make Sure Your Policy Still Protects Your Investment
Owning a rental property is not a set-and-forget investment. Property values change, tenants change, building costs rise, and laws and tenant-related risks evolve. If your landlord insurance policy does not keep up, you may face a shortfall at claim time. A landlord insurance review helps you confirm that your policy still reflects your property’s rebuild…
Garage Conversion Australia: Rules, Costs and What Homeowners Need to Know
Garage conversions have become a popular, cost-effective way for Australian homeowners to create more extra living space without moving or building a full extension. With the rise of home offices, multigenerational living, and flexible floor plans, many garages are no longer serving their original purpose as a garage space for car parking or storage. As…
Understanding Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) for Investment Property
Most property investors know the 20% deposit rule. Keep your Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) at 80% or less and you usually avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). But in the real world, saving a full 20% home loan deposit (plus stamp duty, legals and a buffer) can take years, especially in competitive property markets…
Unapproved Structures in Australia: What Homeowners Need to Know About Insurance Risks
Unapproved structures are a common issue across New South Wales, particularly for older homes, renovated properties, and investment dwellings. Many property owners are unaware that a shed, extension, pergola, or even a granny flat on their land was never formally approved by the local council’s building department. An unapproved structure refers to any building, extension,…
The Ultimate Knock Down Rebuild Guide – Is It Right for You?
Many Australian homeowners reach a point where their current home no longer fits. The kids need space, working from home is permanent, or the layout feels dark and inefficient. But moving can mean leaving your school zone, your commute, and the suburb you’ve worked hard to get into. For those with an old home or…
Insurance for Pet Damage to Rental Property in Australia
Pets have become a normal part of renting in Australia. With more tenants owning pets, updated tenancy laws across states, and landlords increasingly dealing with damage caused by animals in rental properties, questions arise about insurance for pet damage to rental property. Despite this, confusion remains around one critical question: Does landlord insurance cover pet…
Insurance Fraud in Australia: Risks, Penalties and Common Mistakes
Insurance fraud in Australia affects more than just insurers. It increases insurance premiums, slows claims processing, and leads to stricter scrutiny for all policyholders, including property investors. Fraud costs the community around $2 billion annually, influencing insurance premiums for honest customers. Insurance fraud can take various forms, from minor exaggerations to elaborate schemes, including soft…
Does Land Tax Have GST?
Understanding how GST applies to land tax is important for commercial property owners in Australia. Whether you are a landlord, investor, or purchasing an investment property, knowing your GST obligations and responsibilities helps you manage land tax payments effectively and stay compliant with the Land Tax Act. Understanding GST and Land Tax It's essential for…
How We Elevate Your Claim Experience
At Duo Insurance, we understand that the insurance claim process can be complex and stressful. That's why we're committed to providing an exceptional claim experience for our clients. Our team of experts is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, from understanding your policy to negotiating the best possible outcome. Landlord Insurance…
EOFY 2025 Checklist: Your Complete EOFY Insurance Guide
As the end of the financial year (EOFY) approaches in Australia, it’s the perfect opportunity to review your finances and ensure your insurance coverage is up to date. While many Australians diligently prepare their tax returns, insurance considerations are often overlooked during this crucial period, resulting in missed tax deductions and inadequate financial protection. This…
