DBI covers homeowners for loss or damages resulting from incomplete or defective works when the builder has:

• died, disappeared or become insolvent; or
• failed to comply with a Tribunal or Court Order where DBI was issued by VMIA on or after 1 July 2015

Cover starts on the date of the building contract, or the date of the building permit, whichever is earlier.

We cover your building project for

Incomplete works

• Up to 20% of the building contract price including agreed variations.

Inclusive of costs incurred such as:

• Temporary fencing
• Locksmith fees
• Contract works insurance
• Building permit fees

Non-structural defects

• For two years after the completion of work or termination of the building contract.

Examples include but not limited to:

• Painting
• Blocked/broken pipes
• Brickwork
• Internal doors
• Joinery

Structural defects

• For six years after the completion of work or termination of the building contract.

Examples include but not limited to:

• Foundations
• Floors
• Roofs
• External walls and internal load bearing walls
• Columns
• Beams
• Leaking balconies

Other Losses

Such as:

• Accommodation
• Removal and storage
• Consultant report
• Legal fees

Policy limits

Homeowners are covered for up to $200,000 on policies issued before 1 July 2014, and $300,000 on policies issued on or after 1 July 2014. This is inclusive of all defective, incomplete and other losses claims.

For full details on what DBI does and doesn’t cover see what am I covered for? [PDF, 165KB]

To fully understand your domestic building insurance limitations and exclusions refer to your policy