Do I Need QBCC Home Warranty Insurance?

Short answer

For most residential construction work in Queensland above $3,300, yes, QBCC home warranty insurance is required. This applies across new homes, alterations, additions, and many repair or renovation scopes.

Who is responsible

The licensed contractor is responsible for taking out the policy through QBCC. Owners usually fund the premium as part of the contract amount, but the compliance responsibility sits with the contractor.

Projects that usually require cover

New detached homes in suburbs like Springfield, Redland Bay, or North Lakes.
Renovations and extensions where total work exceeds $3,300.
Kitchen and bathroom works above threshold.
Building work affecting structural integrity.
Certain associated works when part of a bigger insurable project.

Projects that may not be insurable

QBCC publishes clear exclusions. Common examples include:

Projects below the $3,300 threshold.
Multiple-unit dwellings over 3 storeys above a car park.
Specific non-residential classes of work.
Owner-builder work under the statutory owner-builder framework.

Do I need QBCC insurance as a homeowner?

You do not lodge the policy yourself in standard contractor projects. Your contractor lodges it with QBCC and gives you policy details. You should request this record before significant progress payments.

Do I need QBCC insurance as a builder?

If you are doing insurable residential work, yes. You cannot avoid the obligation by splitting contracts or labelling work as labour only when insurable value rules still apply.

Quick compliance workflow

Confirm scope is residential construction work under QBCC definitions.
Confirm insurable value exceeds $3,300.
Calculate premium based on insurable value and project type.
Take out cover via QBCC process.
Store policy records and contract evidence.