Quick answer: does body corporate insurance cover geysers?
In many sectional title schemes, geysers are handled under the body corporate building insurance, but this does not mean every geyser-related cost is automatically covered. The policy may distinguish between the geyser unit, resultant water damage, wear and tear, maintenance and excess responsibilities.
What trustees should check
- Whether geysers are included and what limits apply.
- Whether resultant water damage is covered.
- What excess applies to geyser and water damage claims.
- Whether older geysers, maintenance issues or gradual leaks are treated differently.
- Who may authorise repairs and which documents are needed.
Common geyser claim documents
Useful documents normally include photos, plumber reports, invoices, unit details, date of loss, owner details and any communication with the managing agent or insurer.
Owner expectation vs policy wording
Owners often expect the body corporate policy to cover every cost. Trustees should explain that the actual claim outcome depends on the policy wording, excess, cause of damage and whether the loss is insured or maintenance-related.
When to review the policy
If the scheme has frequent geyser claims, rising water damage excesses or owner complaints, the renewal should include a specific review of geyser cover and claims handling.