At CHU, we understand the challenges faced by building managers in ensuring seamless operations while maintaining compliance and safety standards. Keeping track of critical data in relation to each building such as access codes, building condition reports, fire safety and general maintenance can be time consuming, and miscommunications can be extremely costly. 

Enter CHU Inspect 

CHU Inspect, a cutting-edge solution, can dramatically improve the building management process and enhance the overall efficiency of property maintenance. 

CHU Inspect combines the power of LIDar, tailored software applications and drone technology in what will become the next generation of building management. Acting as a central repository for vital information, it provides building managers with unparalleled access to critical data, including access codes, facility hours, building conditions, and essential documentation. From compliance matters such as fire safety tagging to infrastructure locations like gas, water, and fire equipment, CHU Inspect ensures that all necessary information is readily available at your fingertips. 

One of the standout features of CHU Inspect is its ability to facilitate seamless knowledge transfer between individuals and contractors. Gone are the days of ‘email chains or paper trails which can easily be missed, lost or incorrectly filed, resulting in lost information. With CHU Inspect, detailed building knowledge can be effortlessly tagged and shared, streamlining collaboration and improving efficiency across the board. 

In addition to enhancing communication and information sharing, CHU Inspect also offers a more eco-friendly approach to building management. By reducing the number of site visits one virtual inspection can be utilised and accessed by multiple parties. Not only does this reduce carbon footprint, but it also saves valuable time and resources. 

CHU Inspect simplifies work order processing, making it faster and more accurate than ever before. By merging current images with the exact location within the building, CHU Inspect ensures precise identification of issues, speeding up the quoting and rectification processes. With our digital tagging feature, building managers can also keep track of the history of works completed, facilitating comprehensive asset management and maintenance planning. 

Whether it’s creating a defects register or devising an asset maintenance plan, CHU Inspect offers unparalleled flexibility and customisation. With the ability to colour-code tags based on the nature of damage or order of importance, building managers can prioritise tasks effectively and ensure that critical issues are addressed promptly. 

In the complex world of strata building management, CHU Inspect can make life easier for building managers and all parties involved in maintaining and managing strata properties.    

To learn more about CHU Inspect, arrange a demo or book in an inspection, contact our team.   

Building defects are one of the biggest challenges facing strata buildings in Australia. From minor cracks to major structural issues, defects can compromise safety, drive up repair costs, and can impact the building’s insurance coverage.

Research highlights just how widespread the problem has become. The 2023 UNSW Strata Defects Survey found that 53% of strata buildings had serious defects in common property — a sharp increase from 39% in 2021. Waterproofing and fire safety remain the most common problem areas, together making up nearly two-thirds of all reported defects.

For owners’ corporations and strata committees, this creates two pressing questions:

  1. Will defects impact the building’s ability to be insured?
  2. What information do insurers need before offering coverage?

In this article, we’ll explain how building defects may impact strata insurance, how insurers assess the severity of issues, and what steps owners can take to protect both their building and their financial position.

What are the most common building defects?

Building defects are faults or flaws in a building’s design, construction, or maintenance. They can range from minor cosmetic issues to major structural concerns.

Some examples of major defects could include:

In 2023, waterproofing and fire safety defects were the most common, accounting for 42% and 24% of all defects respectively.

Building Defects: Key Insurance Factors

In most cases, strata insurance does not cover building defects themselves. Defects are typically considered the responsibility of the builder, developer, or the owners’ corporation, depending on the age of the building and the warranty period.

However, the presence of defects can still impact insurance coverage in two important ways:

  1. Exclusions for known or concealed defects
    • Most policies contain exclusions stating that insurers will not cover the cost of repairing construction defects.
    • This means insurers generally won’t pay for the rectification itself (e.g. fixing faulty waterproofing or replacing defective balustrades).
  2. Flow-on effects on claims and premiums
    • While defects aren’t covered directly, they can create conditions that lead to an insurance claim (for example, water damage caused by failed waterproofing).
    • If the defect is proven to have caused the damage, the insurer may deny the claim, or apply stricter terms such as higher premiums and excesses.

The key factor is proactivity. Insurers look more favourably on buildings where defects have been identified, documented, and are being addressed through remedial action. A body corporate that takes no steps to rectify issues is far more likely to face exclusions, reduced coverage, or even difficulty obtaining insurance at all.

How do Insurers Assess the Severity of Building Defects?

Underwriters classify defects into minor, major, or severe categories:

Minor 

Minor defects that remain unaddressed have the ability to turn into major defects, therefore we still expect the insured to have an action plan in place. Minor defects may still impact the premium and/or a change in the excess.

Examples:

Major 

These defects are more serious in nature and significantly increase the insurer’s exposure to property and/or liability claims. The body corporate’s attitude to remedial action and actions taken to repair/make safe is important in the decision to insure or not. Insurance may be offered but with an increased premium and a higher than standard excess applied. 

Some examples of major defects could include:

Severe

This is when the defects create such a significant exposure that any premium loading or high excess structure would be deemed insufficient to cover the risk. It is often described as a ‘hard to place risk’, where a standard strata insurance policy is not appropriate and special insurance terms are required as the potential exposure is too significant.

An example of a hard to place risk could be a building with a number of major defects, including structural elements that may lead to imminent collapse of building components, combined with a body corporate who are inactive in rectifying the defects.  

Does the Age of a Building Affect Insurance Coverage?

There are valid reasons why there is differentiation between new builds and existing/older buildings and how this will influence the cover, premium and excess offered.

Some circumstances unique to new builds may include:

Conversely, some circumstances more in keeping with existing builds may include:

What documents do insurers need to evaluate building defects?

Insurers require detailed, accurate information about building defects before they can make a decision on coverage. This ensures the risk is properly assessed and helps determine whether insurance can be offered, and on what terms.

Key information insurers usually request includes:

Please download the Defect and cladding supplementary information PDF here.

How Can Owners Improve Insurance Outcomes if Their Building Has Defects?

While insurers generally exclude the cost of repairing defects, owners’ corporations and strata committees can still take steps to improve their chances of securing insurance on reasonable terms.

Best practices include:

  1. Commission a defects report
    Arrange a professional inspection by a suitably qualified expert and keep it updated to show insurers that you are aware of and actively managing the risks.
  2. Document decisions clearly
    Record discussions and resolutions about defect rectification in Body Corporate minutes. Transparency demonstrates accountability.
  3. Prepare a remedial action plan
    Insurers look more favourably on buildings with formal timelines and funding strategies in place for repairs.
  4. Provide supporting contracts and estimates
    Share signed builder contracts, engineering assessments, and cost breakdowns to prove action is underway.
  5. Engage proactively with your insurer
    Demonstrating commitment to rectification can be the difference between being offered cover (even with conditions) or being classified as a “hard-to-place” risk.

Proactivity matters. Insurers want to see that defects are being managed, not ignored. By showing progress, owners can maintain coverage and minimise the risk of declined claims or inflated premiums.

Building Defects and Strata Insurance FAQs

1. What are building defects in a strata property?
Building defects are faults or flaws in a building’s design, construction, or maintenance. They range from minor issues (like hairline cracks) to major structural problems (such as failed waterproofing or fire safety systems).

2. Are building defects covered by strata insurance?
No — strata insurance generally does not cover the cost of fixing defects themselves. However, defects can affect whether insurers will offer coverage, at what price, and under what terms.

3. Can an insurance claim be denied because of building defects?
Yes. If a defect directly causes damage (e.g., water ingress from faulty waterproofing), insurers may deny the claim unless the issue is already being addressed through remedial works.

4. How do insurers assess the severity of defects?
Insurers classify defects as minor, major, or severe. Minor defects may only influence premiums, while severe defects could make the building a “hard-to-place risk” requiring special insurance terms.

5. Does the age of a building affect insurance coverage for defects?
Yes. New buildings may still be within warranty periods, making rectification easier. Older buildings often face higher risks due to expired warranties, poor maintenance, and end-of-life building components.

6. What documents do insurers need to evaluate defects?
Insurers typically require: defects reports, remedial work contracts, Body Corporate meeting minutes, and expert assessments outlining the issue and proposed repairs.

7. Can a building with serious defects still get insurance?
They are assessed on a case-by-case basis and if terms are offered, it is  usually with higher premiums, increased excesses, or restricted cover. In some cases, special insurance arrangements may be required.

8. What are the most common building defects in strata buildings?
According to the 2023 UNSW Strata Defects Survey, waterproofing issues (42%) and fire safety system failures (24%) are the most common.

9. How can owners improve insurance outcomes if their building has defects?
Owners can improve outcomes by commissioning professional reports, documenting remedial plans, signing repair contracts, and engaging proactively with their insurer.

10. What happens if defects are ignored by the Body Corporate?
If defects are left unaddressed, insurers may reduce coverage, significantly increase premiums, or refuse insurance altogether. Proactive management is essential.

In conclusion, addressing building defects proactively is essential for maximising insurance coverage and availability and minimising financial risks. By providing thorough information and taking decisive action, owners can navigate the complexities of insuring buildings with defects effectively.

Does your building have defects and you’re not sure if it will be covered by insurance? Reach out to our expert team today to have a chat about your liability and risk.

CHU Underwriting Agencies

1.  UNSW’s City Futures Research Centre, 2018, Defects in Strata: Research Overview

Important note: CHU Underwriting Agencies Pty Ltd (ABN 18 001 580 070, AFS Licence No: 243261) acts under a binding authority as agent of the insurer QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFS Licence No: 239545). Any advice in this article is general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. 

In the complex world of insurance claims for strata buildings, efficiency, accuracy, and transparency are paramount. Whether it’s assessing damages, reporting and documenting the damage, managing and facilitating repairs, every step in the process requires meticulous attention to detail.

The CHU claims team have a unique approach to claims management that is leading the way in the industry. This includes empowering the largest and most experienced claims team in the strata industry, who are equipped with the right technology, to make decisions and provide exceptional service in the moments that matter. 

One of the challenges in strata claims management is capturing evidence of all the damage. There is often safety and access issues with the site post an event. Whether it’s after a fire, flood or any other claim incident, the site is often hard to access for trades people and assessors, making inspections difficult and dangerous.  

Enter CHU Inspect

CHU Inspect has revolutionised the way assessors and repairers can determine the extent of the damage. Utilising this state-of-the-art technology, assessors gain access to a digital twin of the building. This includes the exterior and interior providing an extremely detailed and accurate virtual replica of the building.  

Utilising CHU Inspect not only expedites the assessment process but also ensures that all stakeholders are well-informed and adequately prepared for the next steps in the claim process. 

This digital twin serves as a comprehensive repository of data, capturing every detail of the building’s condition. It can capture with pinpoint accuracy all the damage details, which can be annotated for the assessor and repairer. The visual evidence that is often missed by the naked eye in traditional inspections is visible and can be addressed as part of the claim. The scan can also be used as a digital blueprint – and comparison scans can identify existing state vs state post claim incident. This capability is particularly crucial in handling complex sites, providing insurance professionals with invaluable insights into the property’s condition. By establishing a clear point in time, these reports play a pivotal role in substantiating insurance claims, ensuring fair and accurate assessments. 

The integration of digital tagging tools further enhances the efficiency of claims process. These tools enable the seamless retention and transmission of data, annotating relevant information for the repairers during the claims process. With clear documentation and precise location tagging, insurers and repairers can navigate through complex claims with unprecedented ease and accuracy. 

CHU Inspect also offers comprehensive insights into the site, including access information, location of utilities, fire safety equipment and other valuable information to help streamline the repair process.  

These efficiencies into the claims lifecycle translates into tangible benefits for all parties, but essentially increases the transparency and communication between insurers, brokers and policyholders during the claims process.  

Including a scan by CHU Inspect into the strata management process will result in faster and more accurate claim resolutions, reduced disputes, and ultimately, greater satisfaction for all parties involved. 

To learn more about CHU Inspect, arrange a demo or book in an inspection, contact our team.

CHU’s state hubs came together in mid-March to celebrate Harmony Day, part of our March ConneCHUn series. 

At CHU, we pride ourselves on creating a workplace where diversity is celebrated and embraced. 

This year, Ramadan has also commenced, which means some of our team begin their fast from sunrise to sunset.  

Meet Fatema Gilitwala 

Fatema started here at CHU in 2016 and is an integral part of the underwriting team as the Underwriting Manager QLD/NT. Originally from India, Fatema moved to Australia in 2013, where she enjoys cooking and sharing meals with family and friends. Something we learned about Fatema when she started at CHU was that she is a qualified chef. We love finding out about some of these hidden talents of our team.  

This time of year brings the challenging but rewarding time for Fatema of Ramadan and Eid and she wanted to share her knowledge of this cultural event.   

“Ramadan is observed by people of Islamic faith around the world, based on the lunar calendar and the sighting of the crescent moon. The exact date of Ramadan can vary by a day or two depending on the country and region. In Australia, the starting date of Ramadan can also vary depending on the sighting of the moon. This year Ramadan began on 11 March and runs to 9 April 2024; lasting for approximately 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon for Eid al-Fitr.  

“It is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline, and is observed by people of all ages.

“During Ramadan, it is time to fast from sunrise to sunset. This means abstaining from all food and drink, from sunrise until sunset. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called Iftar, which typically includes dates, water, and other traditional dishes. 

“The fast of Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink, it is about sacrifice and self-discipline. People of Islamic faith are encouraged to read the Quran during this time, attend mosque for prayers, give to charity, volunteer to help those in need and spend time with family and friends. 

“Ramadan is also a time for community and togetherness. Many mosques offer daily Iftar meals for those who are fasting, and families and friends often gather to break the fast and share meals. 

“The month of Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the fast and is a time for feasting, family gatherings, and the exchange of gifts. We get together to celebrate and appreciate what we have. While the fasting can be challenging, Eid is a time of great joy, great reward, and blessings.”

Thank you Fatema for sharing your insights into your cultural traditions.

Roof inspections for apartment buildings, especially in the aftermath of catastrophes or when assessing damages, can be fraught with various challenges. These challenges include safety, sheer scale of the roof area, difficult to access areas and time constraints.  

In all these scenarios, traditional roof inspection methods fall short in addressing these challenges effectively.  

Enter CHU Inspect for Roof Inspections 

The quality and capability of drones have significantly advanced in recent years, making them indispensable tools in roofing projects. CHU Inspect utilises state-of-the-art drone technology combined with LiDAR 3D scanning to revolutionise the way the industry can now conduct roof inspections. 

Imagine inspecting a roof of an apartment building after a hailstorm? In the past, if builders and roofers would need to access the roof area several times to inspect, measure and report on damage. Using drones in this scenario dramatically reduces the cost and time, enhances safety and increases the accuracy and level of detail that can be captured for reporting and rectification purposes. 

The advancements in drone hardware technology have led to significant improvements in image quality, flight duration, and data processing capabilities. This translates into highly detailed 2D and 3D models that can be generated rapidly, including precise roof measurements and pitch information. With CHU Inspect, these models are not only visually impressive but also serve practical purposes, such as expediting the tendering process, ensuring quote accuracy, and minimising variations in project scopes. 

One of the key features of CHU Inspect is its built-in artificial intelligence (AI), which enables quick and accurate assessment of large roof areas. By analysing captured data, the software can identify and locate damages with remarkable precision. This functionality streamlines the inspection process, allowing building assessors to focus their attention where it’s needed most and providing insurers and building owners with detailed reports that clearly outline the type and extent of damages. 

CHU Inspect’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for stakeholders to navigate through inspection reports and understand the findings. This level of clarity and transparency not only facilitates decision-making but also fosters trust between insurers, strata managers, and property owners. 

There are a number of ways CHU Inspect can assist in strata building management, claims management, real estate promotions and asset management.  

To learn more about CHU Inspect, contact our team. We look forward to showcasing the many benefits of CHU Inspect.  

At CHU, we’re committed to service excellence, and that includes the repair and restoration of strata buildings during claims. We’re pleased to announce that after a rigorous RFI process, we have carefully selected a panel of approved repairers to set a new standard of excellence in strata insurance claims management.

Driven by our commitment to quality

Our RFI process was designed to identify and engage with reputable providers of strata building services in Australia. We carefully considered and benchmarked proposals to ensure alignment with partners who share our commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

Throughout the evaluation process, we focused on several key areas to ensure that our selected repairers uphold the highest standards:

Meet our Builders Panel

CHU has a selected panel of approved repairers to deliver the highest level of quality and service.

We’re confident that these partners will not only meet, but exceed expectations, providing our clients with the assurance of best-in-class service.

What you need to know about our building and repair process

At CHU, customers are at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on providing the best possible claims experience and this includes transparency and ease for our broker and strata manager partners.

We are always improving and enhancing our claims service, including a recent integration between StrataTech ClaimsView and ENData which enables brokers and strata managers access to real-time claims status. System-generated messages and real-time updates from CHU Assess and our builders utilising ENData automatically update in ClaimsView, providing a clear picture of the actions taken at every step of the claims journey.

Download the ENData Factsheet

Kara McInnes, the National Claims Service Manager at CHU Underwriting Agencies, embodies CHU’s values of leading the way when it comes to developing and mentoring CHU’s claims team.

Born and raised in Brisbane, Kara started her insurance career in 2011 and joined CHU in 2017 as Claims Team Manager before moving into her role as National Claims Service Manager.

In 2020, Kara was awarded the coveted “Young Gun’ Award by Insurance Business, and it made her think more about her future and her career path.

“This moment kick started my desire to do something with my career and the belief that I could achieve anything I put my mind to,” she says. “I realised I’m smarter than I was giving myself credit for, and decided it was time I actually applied myself.”

Kara is currently completing her MBA and is looking forward to further developing her career with CHU (her goal is to become the COO of CHU).  Kara is driven to lead by example and has always believed in continual learning, which she has encouraged within her team.

The role of National Claims Service Manager at CHU is multifaceted, but the focus is to ensure CHU customers receive the best possible service when it comes lodging and processing a claim with CHU.

Claims is the moment of truth for insurers when we must deliver on our promise. That is where Kara’s dedication makes all the difference. Kara understands that customers can be at their most vulnerable at the time of a claim, especially when it’s a large-scale catastrophe claim.

Kara acknowledges the opportunities CHU has offered, has fostered an environment where she can thrive and excel as a leader. Under the leadership of CEO, Kimberley Jonsson and Head of Claims, David Gow, Kara has felt empowered and supported to make decisions, lead the team, and implement improvements into the claims handling process for CHU. This has resulted in better outcomes for CHU customers.  

National Claims Convention 

Kara was the driving force behind CHU’s inaugural Claims Convention in 2023 where the entire national claims team came together in Sydney to learn and develop their skills and share their diverse perspectives. 

“I try to come up with strategies that suit both the business and people,” McInnes shares. “being able to get that balance right always fills me with pride.”

CHU Future Forum 

Kara participated in CHU’s Future Forum where she and her project team put forward ideas to change the landscape of claims management and assist clients to access resources that will help them better service their customers.

She was also a panellist at the Insurance Business Innovation Summit in 2023.

Charting the Course Forward and Supporting Others

As a member of the ANZIIF General insurance Faculty Advisory Board (GI FAB) and the Rising Stars in Insurance Seminar committee, McInnes is committed to inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. She hopes to impart the importance of academic learning and intentional growth, guiding aspiring professionals towards fulfilling and impactful careers.

Read more about Kara’s career journey in a recent interview with ANZIIF and her role in supporting early career insurance professionals to be inspired.

International Women’s Day (IWD) occurs annually on 8 March. This day allows us to come together to celebrate women’s achievements while also shining a light on current issues needing to be addressed, including the gender pay gap, equal opportunities and combating violence against women. We have come a long way in gender equality, but there still more to be done.

At CHU, diversity and inclusion is at the heart of who we are and how we do business. We are committed to continually breaking through barriers and improving our practices to ensure that we create an equal future for all.

Some initiatives launched by CHU include:

We won’t stop here. Our next goal is to formalise our 2024-2025 Diversity and Inclusion strategy.

CHU team-members reflect on IWD

What is a dilapidation report?

A dilapidation report, also known as a condition survey or property inspection report, is a detailed assessment of the condition of a building or property. It is typically conducted by a qualified building inspector or surveyor and involves a thorough examination of the structural integrity, safety features, and overall state of the property. 

What is the purpose of a dilapidation report?

The primary purpose of a dilapidation report is to provide an accurate and comprehensive record of the condition of a building at a specific point in time. These reports are often commissioned for a property and adjacent properties before the commencement of construction or renovation works, such as demolition, excavation, or construction projects. A dilapidation report serves as a reference point to assess any changes or damages that may occur during the building works. By documenting the pre-existing condition of the building and/or neighbouring buildings, a dilapidation report serves as a reference point to assess any changes or damages that may occur during the construction works. 

Traditional methods of creating dilapidation reports have often been limited by low-resolution still photos, access issues and reliance on what can been seen with the naked eye during the inspection process. This prevents a detailed capture of all areas of a building and means that things can easily be missed.  

Who Needs a Dilapidation Survey?

A dilapidation survey is invaluable for various stakeholders, including developers, builders, owners corporations and strata property managers. 

If you fall into any of these categories, you may need a dilapidation report for:

Discover the Benefits of Using CHU Inspect for Dilapidation Reports

CHU Inspect offers a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced in traditional dilapidation reporting. It provides high-resolution imagery and streamlined inspection processes that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and user-friendliness. 

1. High-Resolution Imagery 

One of the most significant advantages of CHU Inspect is its ability to capture high-resolution imagery of entire buildings in a fraction of the time required by traditional methods. This allows inspectors to thoroughly document every aspect of the building, from structural components to cosmetic details, with unparalleled clarity and precision. Utilising advanced imaging technologies, CHU Inspect ensures that no area goes unnoticed, providing developers, builders, and Owners Corporations (OCs) with a comprehensive understanding of the building’s condition. 

2. Accuracy and Detail  

CHU Inspect provides an indisputable moment of truth about a building’s condition at a specific point in time. By offering a detailed visual record of the building’s state, CHU Inspect eliminates ambiguity and uncertainty, providing stakeholders with clear and objective evidence of any existing  building defects or damages. This level of transparency is invaluable for decision-making processes related to property development, maintenance, and dispute resolution. 

3. Comprehensive Documentation 

With CHU Inspect, digital tags can be utilised to document various types of damage, including scuffed walls, damaged skirting boards, and structural defects. These tags serve as visual markers within the inspection report, providing stakeholders with detailed information about the nature and location of each identified issue. This comprehensive documentation not only enhances the accuracy of the dilapidation report but also facilitates effective communication between all parties involved in the property management process. 

4. Value Before and After Large Works 

CHU Inspect is particularly valuable before commencing any large works on a building and upon their completion. By conducting a thorough inspection before the commencement of works, stakeholders can establish a baseline condition of the property, ensuring that any subsequent changes or damages can be accurately documented. Similarly, upon the completion of works, CHU Inspect can be used to verify the quality of the workmanship and identify any new defects that may have arisen during the construction process. 

5. User-Friendly Reports 

One of the key strengths of CHU Inspect is its user-friendly interface and customisable reporting templates. Building managers and assessors can easily generate dilapidation reports that are tailored to the specific requirements of the client, providing them with a clear and intuitive overview of the building’s condition. This ensures that the dilapidation report is accessible and comprehensible to all stakeholders, facilitating informed decision-making and effective property management. 

CHU Inspect has really changed the game when it comes to dilapidation reports. This service can also be used for asset and building management, real estate and marketing, roof inspections and strata insurance claims management.  

FAQ:

1. What is included in a Dilapidation survey?

A dilapidation survey typically includes:

1. Detailed Property Inspection:

2. High-Resolution Imagery:

3.Condition Report:

4. Digital Tags:

5. Baseline Documentation:

6. Additional Details:

Discover the future of dilapidation reporting with CHU Inspect: 

Contact CHU Inspect for Virtual external and internal inspections and critical data collection for residential and commercial strata buildings:

chuinspect@chu.com.au
1300  618 312

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable power sources used in electronic devices such as laptops, mobile phones, e-bikes, e-scooters, power banks and power tools. When used appropriately, these batteries don’t represent additional risk, however, when they are not maintained, misused, or not charged correctly, incidents of fire and even explosions have been well publicised in the media space.

While these batteries offer convenience and portability, it’s essential to handle them with care and maintain them in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Referring to a qualified electronics experts or familiarising yourself with any user manual is key to minimising any Lithium-ion battery related incidents.

As recently as 30th January 2024, a North Carolina resident was unable to obtain a replacement battery and therefore attempted to change the battery themselves, but the battery short-circuited and exploded resulting in a house fire.

Closer to home, on 19 Jan 2024, a unit fire at North Bondi, in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, was sparked by a faulty Lithium-ion battery. The four people within the unit were luckily awoken by the explosion and evacuated. Fourteen other residents of neighbouring units were also evacuated. Fire and Rescue NSW investigations have established that an e-bike battery was left on-charge in a bedroom and ignited.(2)

This article will provide important tips on how to safely use and maintain lithium-ion batteries to minimise the risk of accidents and to maximise their lifetime.

You can also download our Factsheet on mitigating risk of lithium battery usage in strata properties.

Quality Matters:

Always purchase lithium-ion batteries from reputable manufacturers and authorised dealers. Inferior quality batteries may lack essential safety features and can pose a higher risk of malfunction or failure. For permanent battery installations like solar panel battery banks, do not compromise on quality by engaging anyone other than suitably qualified, certified contractors.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures:

Lithium-ion batteries should not be exposed to temperature extremes. Avoid exposing them to high temperatures such as leaving them in direct sunlight and/or outside, or areas prone to high temperature build up such as vehicles, cluttered storage spaces, etc. This can lead to thermal runaway & a condition where the battery overheats and poses a fire hazard. Similarly, extreme cold temperatures and areas with condensation, excessive humidity, or water should be avoided.

Avoid cheap or counterfeit chargers:

Use only the provided or recommended chargers for your devices. Avoid cheap or counterfeit chargers, as they may not have the necessary safety features. Overcharging can also lead to a safety risk, so unplug your devices once they are fully charged.

Safe Charging Practices:

Charge your devices in well-ventilated areas and avoid covering them with fabrics or other insulating materials. This will help dissipate heat during the charging process and reduce the risk of overheating. Always charge your batteries and devices on hard surfaces as opposed to soft material surfaces such as linen, carpets or other soft floor coverings or similar. Do not leave devices charging for longer than they need to, overnight or if you leave your place of residence. Most manufacturers recommended unplugging them once they reach a full charge. Continuous charging at 100% can contribute to a shorter battery lifespan over time.

Utilise a Battery Management System:

It is recommended that lithium batteries that support renewable energy systems such as solar panels utilise a Battery Management System to monitor cell voltage, currents, temperatures and assist in avoiding a potential thermal runaway incident. The Battery Management System (BMS) should be installed and maintained to manufacturer specifications in an optimal location away from direct sunlight, with good ventilation and free from potential hazards.

Regular Inspections:

Periodically check your devices and batteries for any signs of damage, such as swelling or leakage. Cease using the devices should they show any characteristics out of the ordinary, such as overheating, erratic flashing of charging lights or physical damage. If you notice any abnormalities, stop using the device immediately and replace the battery.

Storage Guidelines:

If you need to store lithium-ion batteries for an extended period, ensure they are partially charged (around 40-60%). Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Dispose of Old Batteries Properly:

Responsible disposal of failed or redundant batteries is essential for the entire community. Just like you wouldn’t dispose of chemicals, paints or other flammable items in your household waste, nor should you dispose of lithium batteries in that manner. Many local recycling centres or electronic retailers offer battery recycling programs to ensure environmentally friendly disposal.

Stay Informed:

Keep up to date on any product recalls or safety notices related to your devices and batteries. Manufacturers may release updates or recalls addressing potential safety concerns.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience of lithium-ion batteries while minimising safety risks. Being proactive about battery safety not only protects you and your property but also contributes to the responsible and sustainable use of technology.

CHU Underwriting Agencies has secured the gold medal for Strata cover and the Brokers’ Choice Award for Residential and Commercial Strata Cover in the annual Brokers on Underwriting Agencies survey conducted by Insurance Business Magazine.

This year’s win underscores the consistent trust and support CHU is proud to enjoy from brokers across Australia.

CHU CEO Kimberley Jonsson commented, “In what has been a challenging year for the insurance industry, CHU appreciates the ongoing support from the broker community, and I would like to personally thank all the brokers who voted for us. We are dedicated to continual improvement and providing market leading, innovative strata insurance products and services; now and into the future.”

Jonsson also acknowledged the dedication of the CHU team, highlighting their customer-focused approach from underwriting to claims processing. This commitment to service excellence has undoubtedly contributed to CHU’s ongoing success in the highly competitive underwriting landscape.

Winning these awards serves as a testament to the importance brokers place on specialised knowledge and expertise when engaging with underwriting agencies.

Read the full feature on CHU’s win in Insurance Business Magazine.

Read more about the Brokers on Underwriting Agencies Awards.

At CHU, we proudly celebrated Inclusion@Work Week with the announcement that we have been recognised by the Diversity Council of Australia (DCA) as an Inclusive Employer 2023-2024.

The DCA’s Inclusion@Work Index consistently shows a strong link between inclusion at work and team performance, with similar results for inclusive managers and inclusive organisations.

Claire Burke, CHU’s Manager of National Specialty Risk, encapsulates the essence of diversity and inclusion, by living out the values of CHU in her day-to-day role at CHU.

Claire has been with CHU since 2011 when she joined our NSW/ACT Customer Service Team. Over the years, her passion and dedication led her through various roles, including her current role as head of the National Specialty Risk Team.

The National Specialty Risk team plays a pivotal role in managing complex and challenging accounts from an underwriting perspective, assisting brokers and strata managers with properties and buildings that may have defects or complex risks associated with them.

As an underwriting professional, Claire navigates interactions with clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Understanding the nuances of these interactions has allowed her to build strong relationships, essential in her role.

Claire has been heavily involved in D&I from an insurance industry point of view as well as representing CHU. Here is what Claire had to say about the importance of Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace.

Why is D&I important to you?

D&I is important to me because it promotes awareness and shines a light on the fact that we are all humans, that have our own lived experiences and characteristics that are with each one of us everywhere we go including the workplace. By embracing D&I in the workplace, it allows people to be comfortable to be themselves at work, share facets of their lives, share their ideas and feel included. When people feel comfortable to share their lived experiences, we have the opportunity to learn and have greater awareness and understanding of people’s lives and communities outside of our own.

From my own personal experience, I have always felt comfortable being “out” at CHU. From the day I started, I never felt like I needed to hide who I am or that I am in the rainbow community. I’m proud and always will be, a voice for those that do not feel like they can speak up. I have my pronouns on my email signature, my Teams status, and all socials so the beautiful people in the trans and gender diverse communities know that I represent a safe space. I know how meaningful it feels to have active allies showing their support for the rainbow community.

How have you been involved in advocating for a diverse and inclusive workplace?

Since 2018, I have attended Dive in Festival events. Dive In Festival is a global festival of events across the insurance industry that runs for three days every September that cover a very large range of topics. The sessions that involve speakers sharing their lived experiences or those of loved ones are incredible. My highlight from the 2023 Dive In Festival would be the session I attended that focused on menopause, how little support there is and how little is spoken about it. I would like to bring this discussion to CHU.

I also participated as a panel speaker at the 2023 ANZIIF Diversity and Inclusion Seminar. I really loved this experience as it gave me the opportunity to speak from my own lived experiences, on what I do at CHU in this space and why I do it. It was my first public speaking opportunity, completely outside of my comfort zone, but it was a great opportunity to challenge myself.

How does D&I benefit CHU’s workforce and customers?

D&I isn’t just a box to tick at CHU; it’s a strategic focus. By nurturing an inclusive environment, CHU enjoys a highly engaged workforce, diverse talent pool, and a wealth of varied perspectives. This diversity enriches our organisation and allows us to better serve our customers and adapt to their unique needs.

CHU’s commitment to D&I manifests in tangible ways. For our customers, we’ve developed multilingual resources, including a ‘What is Strata Insurance?’ video in Mandarin and subtitled versions in various languages. We offer interpreter services in over 160 languages and provide support services for physical and mental health, as well as domestic violence.

CHU has recently been recognised by the Diversity Council Australia as being an Inclusive Employer and this is a real testament to the commitment that CHU has in creating an inclusive space to work.

Embracing differences strengthens us, enables us to serve our customers with empathy, understanding, and expertise. Together, we’re not just insuring properties; we’re building a community where everyone’s voice matters.

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