A Professional Guide for Australian Homeowners & Property Managers
1. What Counts as Storm Damage?
Under Australian home insurance policies, storm damage must be sudden and accidental. For glazing, this typically includes:
- Impact: Hailstones, wind-borne debris (branches, outdoor furniture), or falling trees.
- Pressure: Structural flexing or extreme wind pressure causing panes to crack or implode.
- Water Ingress: Damage caused by rain entering through glass that was broken during the storm.
2. Immediate Steps & Mitigation
In Australia, insurance policies include a “Duty to Mitigate Loss,” requiring reasonable steps to prevent further damage.
Step 1: Document — Take clear photos of the glass and opening before cleanup.
Step 2: Safety — Cordon off the area; avoid handling large shards without professional gear.
Step 3: Secure — Arrange a “Make-Safe” to board up the window and prevent secondary water damage.
3. Typical Insurance Workflow
| Stage | Action Required | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Lodgement | Lodge claim with photos. | Homeowner |
| Make-Safe | Emergency boarding. | Glazier |
| Approval | Insurer approves permanent repair. | Insurer |
| Completion | Final AS 1288 installation. | Glazier |
4. Emergency Securing (Make-Safe)
Prior approval is generally not required for emergency boarding in Australia. Insurers prefer immediate security over the cost of secondary damage caused by delays.
5. Mandatory AS 1288 Upgrades
Under AS 1288-2021, new glass must meet current safety standards. If a broken pane was non-safety glass in a high-risk area, it must be upgraded to Grade A Safety Glass; insurers typically cover this legal requirement.
6. Repair vs Replacement
- Single Glazing: Pane replacement with equivalent compliant glass.
- Double Glazing: Usually requires a full unit replacement to maintain the seal.
- Frames: Insurers may cover full suite replacement if the frame is warped.
7. Avoiding Claim Disputes
Ensure your glazier specifies the Cause of Loss (e.g., “hail impact”) and Glass Specifications (e.g., “AS 1288 compliant”) on the invoice.
8. FAQ
Can I choose my own glazier?
Yes, most Australian policies allow you to select your own repairer, provided the rate is fair and reasonable.
Will a storm claim raise my premium?
Storms are “No Fault” events. While it might affect a discount, it typically impacts premiums less than an at-fault incident.