This article discusses whether repairs for compressor leaks are covered by strata insurance and how coverage depends on the cause of the damage.
Question: Our outdoor compressor has an oil leak. A repairer advised that we need to replace the compressor. It is located on the balcony. Can we claim repairs from strata insurance?
Answer: A good starting point is to have a repairer provide advice on the cause of damage.
Whether you can claim the compressor replacement under the strata insurance will depend on the cause of the leak. Insurers generally distinguish between:
- Gradually operating causes such as wear and tear, maintenance issues, or gradual deterioration. Usually, these are considered maintenance matters and not covered by insurance.
- Sudden and accidental events such as accidental damage or an unexpected insured peril. These are the types of events that may fall within insurance cover.
Most commonly, oil leaks are deemed a maintenance issue rather than an insurable event. However, if the leak has caused further damage, for example, if oil has leaked into the compressor and resulted in a mechanical breakdown, then (subject to the terms and conditions of the policy) there may be potential cover under the machinery breakdown section, if included. In that situation, the wear and tear component may not be covered, but the consequential damage may be considered.
Ultimately, the insurer’s position will depend on what the repairer identifies as the cause of the leak and whether it aligns with the terms and conditions of the insurance policy. A good starting point is to have a repairer provide advice on the cause of damage.
Tyrone Shandiman
Strata Insurance Solutions
E: tshandiman@iaa.net.au
P: 1300 554 165
This information is of a general nature only and neither represents nor is intended to be personal advice on any particular matter. Shandit Pty Ltd T/as Strata Insurance Solutions strongly suggests that no person should act specifically on the basis of the information in this document, but should obtain appropriate professional advice based on their own personal circumstances. Shandit Pty Ltd T/As Strata Insurance Solutions is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 404246) of Insurance Advisenent Australia AFSL No 240549, ABN 15 003 886 687.
This post appears in the November 2025 edition of The WA Strata Magazine.
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Read next:
- WA: Q&A Seeking Reimbursement for Water Leak Expenses
- WA: Q&A Maintenance Planning and Strata Insurance
- NAT: What are the dangers of underinsuring a strata building?
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