Insurance for Your Block While You Wait to Build
From settlement until construction starts, you're responsible for your empty block. Vacant land liability covers that gap, then we'll help you switch to construction cover when the builder starts.
Who it's for
House-and-land buyers, knockdown-rebuilds once the old house is gone, and anyone waiting on approvals or a builder.
Common claim scenarios
The policy covers claims you're legally liable for, up to your limit. These examples are illustrative, and whether a claim is paid depends on the facts and the policy wording.
A shortcut to school
Kids cut across your block on the way to school. One trips on a pile of dumped rubble and breaks an arm, and the family claims you should have cleared it.
How cover responds: If you're legally liable, the policy pays the compensation. Legal costs to defend the claim are paid on top of your limit.
Summer grass fire
Long grass on your block catches fire and spreads over the fence, burning your neighbour's fence and garden shed.
How cover responds: Damage to your neighbour's fence and shed is covered if you're legally liable. Keep the block mown and follow your council's fire rules, as the policy expects reasonable precautions.
The builder starts early
Your builder scrapes the site and digs footings. A passer-by falls into an open trench.
How cover responds: Not covered. Construction and excavation are excluded, so contract works cover needs to be in place before work begins. Call us two weeks before the builder starts.
Watch for
- Some home contents policies cover a new block for a while. Check yours before buying twice
- Cover stops applying to the works once site preparation or construction begins. Call us two weeks before the builder starts
- Keep the block mown, fenced if needed, and free of rubbish. If you have a land loan, your lender may require this cover and ask to be named as an interested party
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