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

NTI Speaks Up for Trucking Industry as Fuel Costs Double NTI Speaks Up for Trucking Industry as Fuel Costs Double
15 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Transport specialist NTI has been actively participating in government roundtables and working groups to advocate for the freight industry amid a significant surge in fuel costs. The doubling of fuel prices has presented substantial challenges for transport operators across Australia, prompting NTI to engage in discussions aimed at finding viable solutions. - read more
APRA's Call for Immediate Action on Extreme Weather Mitigation APRA's Call for Immediate Action on Extreme Weather Mitigation
15 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released a landmark report emphasising the urgent need for ambitious action and investment to protect communities from the escalating impact of extreme weather events. The Insurance Climate Vulnerability Assessment (ICVA) serves as a stress test, highlighting risks that are already materialising and supporting the insurance industry's calls for immediate mitigation efforts. - read more
Newline Group Strengthens Australian Presence with Sydney Office and Key Appointment Newline Group Strengthens Australian Presence with Sydney Office and Key Appointment
14 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Specialty insurer Newline Group has announced the opening of a new office in Sydney, marking a significant expansion of its Australian operations. This strategic move aims to bring the company closer to its distribution partners and clients in the region, enhancing service delivery and fostering stronger relationships. - read more
Markel Insurance Introduces Tailored Financial Institution Products for Australian Market Markel Insurance Introduces Tailored Financial Institution Products for Australian Market
14 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Markel Insurance has unveiled a suite of financial institution products specifically designed for the Australian market, featuring localized policy wordings to better address the unique needs of local businesses. This initiative reflects Markel's commitment to providing tailored insurance solutions that resonate with the specific requirements of Australian financial institutions. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

Creating a Financial Safety Net: Insurance and Savings Tips for Young Families Creating a Financial Safety Net: Insurance and Savings Tips for Young Families
Welcome to our blog! For young families, securing your future often requires careful planning and prudent financial decisions. One of the most crucial steps you can take in this journey is creating a financial safety net. - read more
How to Choose the Right Income Protection Insurance as a Freelancer How to Choose the Right Income Protection Insurance as a Freelancer
Income protection insurance is a type of coverage designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It's an incredibly vital form of insurance for freelancers, who may not have the same safety nets as traditional employees, such as paid sick leave or disability benefits. - read more
Understanding Life Insurance: Securing Your Family's Future Understanding Life Insurance: Securing Your Family's Future
Defining life insurance and its importance: Life insurance is a pivotal financial product designed to protect your loved ones from economic hardship in case of your untimely death. It acts as a safety net, ensuring that your family can maintain their standard of living, cover outstanding debts, and afford future expenses like education and retirement. - read more
Understanding Life Insurance: How to Get the Best Online Quotes Understanding Life Insurance: How to Get the Best Online Quotes
The digital age has fundamentally transformed how we approach almost every aspect of our lives, including the way we shop for life insurance in Australia. Gone are the days when one had to schedule meetings with insurance agents or flip through pamphlets to understand life insurance policies. Today, obtaining life insurance quotes online has become the norm, offering a hassle-free and incredibly accessible platform for individuals to safeguard their financial future. - 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
Loss Ratio:
The ratio of claims paid by an insurer to the premiums earned, used as a measure of profitability.