Things Worth Knowing

What are home contents?

Home contents are defined as the removable items you own (or are legally responsible for), which are kept inside your home or other buildings on your premises (that you have exclusive use of and keep securely locked, such as your back shed). 

Home contents items may range from fitted fixtures, such as carpets, curtains and blinds; to recreational items such as surf skis, kayaks, canoes and surfboards. Tools, computers, CDs, DVDs, artwork and jewellery are also included. Your Home Contents policy also provides limited cover for items kept outside your home, but on the premises, such as garden furniture.

Please read our Product Disclosure Statement and your policy schedule for full details.

I own items with values higher than the policy limits. Can you cover my valuable items?

HBF Home Contents cover does contain some individual item limits. If you own items that are more than the limits described, you must specify these individually on your policy to ensure you are fully covered at the time of a claim.  Please call us on 133 423 to arrange.

I have changed the security on my property. Do I need to inform HBF?

If you are altering the security on your property you should inform us as it may change the conditions of your insurance. You may also be eligible for a discount.

Please call us on 133 423 to update your policy.

I'm about to install a new kitchen and renovate my bathroom – do I need to notify HBF?

Before commencing renovations it is important that you notify us as it may effect the terms and conditions of your policy. Also, it is important that you increase your sum insured to reflect any extensions or renovations to make sure you are adequately covered in the event of a claim.

I have commenced using my home for business purposes - should I notify HBF?

Yes, it is important that HBF is informed immediately of any change in use if the premises as it may affect our decision to insure you.

I'm moving into a new flat with a group of friends - will you insure us?

Yes, we will insure you and your friends subject to underwriting guidelines, however all owners/occupants must be listed on the policy.

I own items that are valuable and that I take away from the home. Are these items covered?

HBF Home Contents cover does not cover items away from the site and therefore offers optional HBF Personal Valuables cover for those items of value that you require cover for anywhere in Australia.  There are two optional covers to choose from, HBF Specified Valuables and HBF Unspecified Valuables policies.  Those items deemed to be valuables are defined within the PDS and can include items such as jewellery (e.g. wedding and engagement rings), mobile phones, PDA’s, photographic equipment and sporting equipment.  Terms and conditions apply so please read our Product Disclosure Statement or call us on 133 423 for full details.

Am I eligible for any discounts?

We do offer discounts for HBF members who hold current insurance products with us. You may also be eligible for discounts based on the details of the property you wish to insure. You may also be able to reduce your premium through product options such as voluntary excesses and payment options. For details on how to best reduce your premiums please contact our member service centre on 133 423 or visit one of our service centres.

How do I pay my insurance by direct debit?

Direct debit for members

Pay the easy way. Direct debit is a convenient, no fuss option so you don’t run the risk of missing a payment. You’ll also save on cheque fees, stamps and the time it takes to write out a cheque and mail your payment.

How does direct debit work?

With your authority, your insurance premiums are deducted fortnightly, monthly, or annually from your bank, building society, credit union or credit card account (MasterCard or Visa). You can even arrange your payments to coincide with your pay day or pension day. Only the amount required to cover your premium will be transferred to us.

Is there a cost to me?

We suggest you contact your bank, building society or credit union regarding any possible charges, as some financial institutions may apply transaction fees. We apply a 10% premium loading to all General Insurance fortnightly and monthly direct debit payments**.

How do I arrange for direct debit?

First you need to have a cheque, savings or credit card account with your bank, building society or credit union. Call us on 133 423 with your BSB or financial institution number and account number. We’ll do the rest for you. Your payments will be automatically debited according to your chosen frequency.*

A few guidelines to remember

You will need to ensure there are sufficient funds in your account to cover the specified deductions and that your deductions are correctly debited from the account. If three consecutive deductions (for the same payment period) are not met, we will cancel the Direct Debit Authority with your financial institution.◊

If rates alter or a change is made to your policy, we will adjust the deductions accordingly.†

To find out more about direct debit

If you would like more information about direct debit or would like to set up this convenient payment option, please call us on 133 423 or visit one of our service centres.

For full terms and conditions, please refer to the Direct Debit FAQs

** Except in the event direct debit fees are waived as part of a promotional offer.

* Please note that your initial deduction may include an adjustment to ensure your policy is financial or to coincide with your nominated date.

◊Any fees or charges incurred as a result of insufficient funds will be the responsibility of the account holder.

†The Direct Debit Authority authorises your bank to deduct the amounts required to cover your policy payments, which may alter from time to time.

Can someone else manage my policy for me?

If you would like a partner, friend or relative to manage your membership, or if a person has been granted Power of Attorney to act on your behalf, simply fill out the Power of Attorney/Appointment of Agent form and post it to us at: HBF, GPO Box C101, Perth WA 6809.

The nominated person will then be able to access and update your personal information. You can cancel this access at any time by calling us on 133 423.