Residential strata building insurance plays a vital role in protecting apartment buildings, townhouses, and other shared residential properties across Queensland. It provides essential cover for the building structure, shared or “common” areas, common property, and common area contents managed by the body corporate.
However, many lot owners and investors are often unclear about what is actually covered under strata insurance and what is not. Understanding these distinctions is crucial when choosing the right Strata Services provider and ensuring your property is adequately protected. Below, we break down the key items covered, explain common misunderstandings, and highlight how professional Body Corporate Services like Sunstate Strata can help you stay protected and compliant.
What Is Covered by Residential Strata Building Insurance?
Residential strata building insurance generally covers the physical building and items permanently fixed to it, as well as contents located in shared spaces. These items are insured under the Body Corporate Insurance, not individual lot owners.
Building Fixtures Covered Under Strata Insurance
These items form part of the building structure and are usually considered “fixtures” within a lot:
Baths, hand basins, and toilets
These are permanently installed plumbing fixtures and are treated as part of the building rather than personal property.Ducted air conditioning systems
Central or ducted systems servicing a lot or multiple units are covered, as they are fixed installations.Windows and doors
External and internal doors and windows, including frames and glass, fall under building insurance cover.Fixed tiling
Tiles that are permanently attached to floors or walls, such as bathroom and kitchen tiling, are insured as part of the building.Stoves and fixed appliances
Built-in stoves and ovens are generally included, provided they are fixed and not removable.Paint and wallpaper
Internal paintwork and wallpaper are considered part of the building finish and are covered under strata insurance.
Common Area Contents Covered by Strata Insurance
Common area contents are items owned by the body corporate and located in shared spaces, not inside individual lots.
Carpets and flooring in hallways and lobbies
Temporary floor coverings in shared corridors and entryways are insured as common property.Decorative items in common areas
Pot plants, mirrors, artwork, and décor owned by the body corporate are included.Shared laundry appliances
Washing machines and dryers located in communal laundries and owned by the body corporate are covered.Gardens and outdoor equipment
Barbeques, gardening tools, and landscaping elements maintained for communal use are insured.
What Is NOT Covered by Strata Insurance?
A common misunderstanding is that strata insurance covers everything inside a lot. This is not the case. Items below require contents insurance or landlord insurance:
Items Covered by Contents or Landlord Insurance
Internal carpets and floating floors inside individual units
Light fittings, curtains, and blinds installed by the lot owner
Personal valuables such as jewellery, watches, and electronics
Clothing and furniture belonging to occupants
Household appliances like refrigerators and microwaves
Loss of rent, which is only covered under landlord insurance
Lot owners are strongly advised to arrange their own contents insurance, and landlords should hold landlord insurance to ensure complete protection in the event of damage or loss.
Why Choosing the Right Body Corporate Services Matters
Understanding insurance cover is just one part of effective strata management. Partnering with an experienced Body Corporate Services provider like Sunstate Strata ensures:
Accurate insurance placement and ongoing policy reviews
Clear communication with lot owners about coverage responsibilities
Professional claims management and insurer liaison
Compliance with Queensland strata legislation
Proactive risk management to reduce future claims
If you want a deeper understanding of how strata management works as a whole, this guide on Complete Body Corporate Services Explained: A Guide for Queensland Owners is an excellent resource that complements your insurance knowledge and strengthens decision-making for your property.
How Sunstate Strata Supports Queensland Owners
Sunstate Strata provides tailored Strata Services across Queensland, helping bodies corporate navigate insurance, maintenance, compliance, and financial management with confidence. Their expertise ensures that both committees and owners understand their responsibilities while protecting shared assets effectively.
Get Expert Body Corporate Support in Queensland
Partner With Sunstate Strata Today
Choosing the right strata manager can make all the difference in protecting your property and avoiding costly misunderstandings. With Sunstate Strata, you gain expert guidance, transparent communication, and reliable Body Corporate Services designed for Queensland properties.
Sunstate Strata
Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Phone: 07 5450 5300
Email: admin@sunstatestrata.com.au
Contact Sunstate Strata today to ensure your residential strata building insurance is correctly managed and your property is in safe hands.