Ensuring Property Compliance for Insurance Claims: What You Need to Know
When it comes to securing insurance for your property, ensuring compliance is a critical step. Whether you're a homeowner, investor, or commercial property owner, having a fully compliant property can make the difference between a smooth insurance claim process or a lengthy, expensive ordeal. In this blog, we explore the essential aspects to consider for property compliance to help you avoid any pitfalls when it comes to making a claim.
1. Understanding Your Property's Floor Plan Compliance
A major aspect of property compliance lies in ensuring that your building matches the approved plans on file with your local council. Discrepancies between council-approved floor plans and as-built plans can lead to insurance issues if changes have been made without consent.
One way to verify this is by commissioning a PropertyPlans Floor Plan Comparison Report, which overlays the council’s records with recent as-built scans (like LiDAR scans). This type of report highlights any un-consented changes that could affect the structural integrity of the property, making it crucial for both compliance and insurance purposes.
2. Addressing Un-Consented Alterations
Over time, it’s not uncommon for properties to undergo renovations or modifications that may not have gone through the proper consent processes. This could include:
- Adding or removing walls
- Altering load-bearing elements
- Changing window placements
- Extensions or additions
These unapproved changes, if discovered during an insurance claim assessment, may lead to denied claims or reduced payouts. Addressing any un-consented alterations through proper legal and construction channels is key to maintaining compliance and ensuring full insurance coverage.
3. Ensuring Structural Integrity
A well-maintained property is a safe property. Building regulations are there to ensure that structures are safe and sound, but if unauthorized changes have been made, it can compromise the building's integrity. Insurance companies look closely at structural compliance, especially for older properties or those that have had renovations. If structural discrepancies are found during a claim investigation, the insurance company may consider the property non-compliant, resulting in denied claims.
4. The Role of Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP)
If discrepancies are found in your property’s floor plans, it’s important to consult a **Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)**. LBPs are qualified professionals who ensure that any building work complies with New Zealand’s building regulations. Whether it’s a structural issue or weather-tightness concern, they can offer professional advice and solutions to bring your property back into compliance, safeguarding your insurance in the event of a claim.
5. Documenting Compliance for Insurance
Once your property has been assessed, and any discrepancies have been addressed, it’s vital to have documentation proving compliance. These documents are often required when you:
- Apply for insurance coverage
- Make an insurance claim
- Sell the property
Having a report that outlines the status of your property, including any updates or corrections, can provide peace of mind and prevent complications with insurance.
6. Plan for Regular Maintenance
Lastly, regular property maintenance is essential for both compliance and preventing insurance claim issues. Gradual wear and tear, if left unchecked, can lead to compliance violations. Routine inspections and updates to your property’s condition will keep you on the right side of both building codes and insurance requirements.
Conclusion
Ensuring your property’s compliance is more than just a regulatory obligation – it’s a crucial aspect of protecting your investment and ensuring you have the necessary coverage in case of an insurance claim. By conducting regular checks, addressing discrepancies, and keeping your documentation up to date, you can navigate the complexities of property compliance with confidence.
Whether it’s through a PropertyPlans - Floor Plan Comparison Report or the assistance of a Licensed Building Practitioner, taking proactive steps today can save you from significant issues tomorrow.
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