Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF)

All builders are required by law to purchase Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) cover in New South Wales.

What is Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) cover?

Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) cover (formerly called ‘Home Warranty Insurance’) is needed if you’re a licensed builder or tradesperson in New South Wales and you’re about to undertake a home building project valued at $20,000 or more, including GST. As a builder, you are legally required to give proof of HBCF cover to the homeowner or developer you are working for before you start work or ask for a deposit or any other payment. Failure to take out HBCF is an offence under New South Wales law.

What does HBCF cover?

HBCF acts as a protection for the homeowner against financial loss suffered by them (and subsequent owner if the policy has not been exhausted by a prior claim), when a builder cannot complete contracted work meet a valid claim for a defect or for unsatisfactory building work. This can happen when a builder:

  • Dies
  • Disappears
  • Becomes insolvent

You will need to confirm you are eligible for HBCF prior to taking out this cover which is offered by a single insurer operated by the NSW government, Icare HBCF.

What is the process to apply for HBCF in NSW?

HIA Insurance Services is an approved distributor of HBCF. The eligibility application process requires an assessment of financials and supporting documentation. We suggest you call 1800 762 878 or click here to discuss your application as soon as you can.

In most case, a builder is required to complete the auto assessment application for their broker which is to be submitted to Icare. In the application, you will be asked to provide information on your proposed annual pipeline of works as well as the types of projects you are undertaking which are either Primary Projects or Secondary Projects.

If you are not eligible for the automated assessment process, you may need to provide your broker with financial statements and a completed application form. These can include but are not limited to:

  • A recent balance sheet, profit and loss statement (for company and trust) or tax returns (for sole trader and partnership);
  • A statement of personal assets and liabilities.
  • Copies of rates notice for all properties declared on the statement of personal assets and liabilities; and
  • A Builder Eligibility/Profile Change Application form.

HIA Insurance Services will review your documentation and discuss any questions. Upon reviewing the documentation your broker will prepare your submission for Icare and submit to the Icare to begin the assessment.

The Application will be reviewed by Icare. If the application is successful, you will be issued with a HBCF Certificate of Eligibility which can be accessed via the online portal, and you are therefore able to begin obtaining warranty certificates of insurance for individual building projects prior to undertaking any work.

On an ongoing basis, eligibility is subject to review. Icare determines how often they perform reviews and may also undertake special eligibility reviews if a builder’s circumstances change and if they have identified a possible risk. HIA Insurance Services will support you through this process.

As a nominated Icare HBCF Distributor, HIA Insurance Services can support you and your business through the application process. We encourage you to contact a broker, such as HIA Insurance Services. We are residential construction insurance specialists and have the expertise and experience to be able to guide you through the HBCF application process. To learn more, visit our HBCF page or call us on 1800 762 878 or request more information.

Speak with a specialist
 
Resources & Quicklinks
Buy Construction Works Insurance online

Get a quote and purchase Construction Works Insurance online using our user-friendly, online quoting system.

Want to speak to an expert?

We're here to help. Visit our Contact page to contact us, make an enquiry or request a call back.

Scroll down for more content 
Featured News and Education
Could a building material shortage affect your insurance cover?

Learn how the construction material shortage in Australia can affect your bottom line & impact your Construction Works Insurance policy.

Read article
Ultimate Guide to Building Insurance & Construction Insurance

There are many types of construction insurance for builders that can cover you from financial risk, theft & accidental damage. Read our ultimate guide now!

Read article
What is a Certificate of Currency?

A Certificate of Currency proves you have an up-to-date insurance policy in place and are ready to work.

Read article