Compare Life Insurance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Customer Wins in Insurance Dispute Over Laser Equipment

Customer Wins in Insurance Dispute Over Laser Equipment

In a recent ruling, a salon owner successfully contested a claim with her insurance provider concerning a dispute over a laser machine.
This case highlights significant issues around insurance policy interpretation and customer rights.

The crux of the dispute arose when the salon's laser machine broke down in February, and repair costs were estimated at $18,069. The salon owner had insured the machine for $50,000 in December of the previous year, following its second-hand purchase and refurbishment in 2012 for $66,000.

Despite acknowledging the damage, QBE Insurance reduced its compensation to $7,286, citing an underinsurance clause. QBE claimed that due to the model being discontinued, a replacement would necessitate insuring at $155,000.

The insurer's clause stipulated that if the sum insured was less than 80% of the "total new replacement value," the liability could be adjusted accordingly. However, the salon owner challenged this assessment, arguing that a comparable refurbished machine was valued between $30,000 and $45,000.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) intervened, siding with the salon owner. AFCA declared that policy wording began ambiguous, noting discrepancies in terms such as "full value" and "total new replacement value", creating confusion about the clause's intent.

AFCA clarified: "When the policy is read as a whole, it indicates the laser should be insured for its full value, or what it would cost to replace with a similar laser in a similar condition." They refuted QBE's expectation that the salon owner should have insured the laser for $155,000, indicating she would never recoup more than $50,000 under policy terms.

This ruling mandates QBE to cover the repair costs, less the policy’s deductible. The case emphasizes the importance of clarity in insurance contracts and equitable treatment of claims.



Published:Wednesday, 27th Nov 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Acenda's Workforce Reductions Post-Merger Raise Union Concerns Acenda's Workforce Reductions Post-Merger Raise Union Concerns
31 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In the wake of the merger between MLC Life and Resolution Life Australia, the newly formed entity, Acenda, has implemented significant workforce reductions, leading to union criticism over the consultation process. - read more
APRA Reports Significant Increase in Life Insurance Underwriting Profits APRA Reports Significant Increase in Life Insurance Underwriting Profits
31 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released data indicating a substantial rise in underwriting gains within the life insurance sector for the December quarter of 2025. - read more
IBISWorld Forecasts Surge in Life Insurance Mergers Amid Market Challenges IBISWorld Forecasts Surge in Life Insurance Mergers Amid Market Challenges
31 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

According to a recent IBISWorld report, the Australian life insurance industry is poised for increased merger activity as companies strive to achieve economies of scale in response to market challenges. - read more
Australian Insurers Tackle Premium Affordability Challenges in 2026 Australian Insurers Tackle Premium Affordability Challenges in 2026
31 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2026, Australian insurers are prioritizing premium affordability and insurability as they confront escalating claims costs, climate-related losses, and technology-enabled fraud. According to Gallagher Bassett's 2026 global claims study, these factors are significantly influencing pricing, underwriting, and capital allocation decisions. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

The Single Parent’s Guide to Securing Your Child’s Financial Future The Single Parent’s Guide to Securing Your Child’s Financial Future
Single parenting brings with it a mosaic of responsibilities and challenges, not least of which is securing a stable financial future for your child. The rollercoaster of raising a child alone often means that planning for the future can take a back seat to the day-to-day demands of parenting. Unexpected illnesses and injuries can compound these challenges, causing stress to multiply and plans to go awry. - read more
The Savvy Traveller's Checklist for Affordable Travel Insurance The Savvy Traveller's Checklist for Affordable Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an indispensable component for any savvy traveller from Australia, playing a protective role in a myriad of situations that may occur away from home. Whether it's encountering flight delays, requiring medical assistance, or facing luggage theft, having a solid travel insurance policy can convert potential nightmares into manageable inconveniences. Yet, despite its importance, the process of finding a policy that won't break the bank is increasingly challenging. - read more
How to Compare Income Protection Policies When You Have a Medical History How to Compare Income Protection Policies When You Have a Medical History
In today's ever-changing world, financial security is a cornerstone of peace of mind, particularly for Australians grappling with medical histories. Income protection insurance emerges as a pivotal solution, safeguarding not only the individual’s fiscal health but the well-being of their dependents. This introduction explores the nuances of income protection insurance and its particular significance for those with pre-existing medical conditions. - read more
Top Strategies for Long-Term Income Protection in Australia Top Strategies for Long-Term Income Protection in Australia
Income protection is a safeguard that ensures you have a steady stream of income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. This type of insurance can be a lifesaver, providing peace of mind and financial stability during challenging times. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:


All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Replacement Cost:
The amount it would cost to replace or rebuild an insured asset with one of similar kind and quality, without depreciation.