Regulation
Check which duty applies
For consumer insurance contracts, the Insurance Contracts Act includes a duty to take reasonable care not to make a misrepresentation. The classification of the contract matters; commercial or mixed-use arrangements need separate assessment. Read the duty notice supplied by the insurer and ask for clarification if its questions or the notice are unclear.
Answer from records
- Check claims history and dates rather than relying on memory.
- Describe the actual berth, storage arrangements and intended cruising area.
- Answer questions about racing, charter, liveaboard use and modifications accurately.
- Ask how to record an unknown rig age or missing maintenance history.
- Keep a copy of answers, documents and written corrections.
If an answer is challenged
Ask the insurer to identify the question, your recorded answer, the alleged error and the remedy sought. Outcomes depend on the facts and applicable law; neither automatic cancellation nor automatic payment should be assumed. Use the insurer's complaint process and check AFCA's jurisdiction if the dispute remains unresolved.
Prepare your quote brief
Collect the facts and unresolved questions before sending an application.