Since COVID-19, the flexibility to work from home has become increasingly common across a wide range of industries. For many professionals, managers, and even those in part-time or regional roles, working from home offers practical benefits — from improved work-life balance to reduced commuting time.
As of August 2024, 36% of employed Australians usually work from home, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Among professionals and managers, that number rises to nearly 60%, according to CEDA — reflecting a shift in how and where we work across a variety of workplace arrangements and individual circumstances.
1. Business equipment may not be covered
Standard home and contents insurance usually covers personal belongings – but may exclude commercial items such as business-owned laptops, monitors, tools, or specialist equipment.
If your employer has supplied your equipment, it may be covered under their insurance policy. But if it’s your own, especially if purchased for your business, you may need to list it separately or take out specific cover.
Tip: Keep receipts and records for high-value items used for work.
2. Running a business from home? Additional cover may be needed
If you operate a small business or side hustle from home – such as tutoring, consulting, or ecommerce – you may need more than just home insurance.
Certain activities can void parts of your policy, especially if customers, couriers or suppliers come to your property. Speak to your broker about whether you need:
- Public liability insurance
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Cover for stock, inventory or work tools
Even low-risk home businesses can encounter insurance issues if policies haven’t been updated.
3. Are client visits covered?
If a client visits your home and suffers an injury – such as a trip on stairs or a fall in the driveway – your home insurance may not cover it if the visit was business-related.
Public liability insurance can offer protection, but only if it’s included in your policy and applies to commercial activity. Let your broker know if you regularly have face-to-face meetings at home.
5. Don’t assume – check with your broker
Your insurance should reflect how your property is being used – and with more people working remotely than ever, that use has changed. If you do work from home, notify your home and contents insuer or call your broker who can help identify any gaps in cover and give peace of mind that your setup is secure.
Working from home more often?
Contact your local PSC broker to review your policy and make sure your insurance aligns with how you use your space.
