A recent study by Allianz Australia has highlighted a widespread issue among homeowners: a significant proportion are not conducting regular property maintenance, potentially increasing the risk of avoidable damage and subsequent insurance claims.
According to the insurer’s Home Care Report, 40% of Australian homeowners acknowledge that they do not maintain their homes on a consistent basis, instead adopting a “set and forget” mindset.
Despite a high level of awareness – 94% of those surveyed recognise the risks associated with neglecting home maintenance, and nearly 90% agree it is a worthwhile investment – many homeowners struggle to translate this understanding into action.
Factors such as time constraints, financial pressures, and the perceived effort required are cited as the main obstacles to routine upkeep.
The report found that only 16% of respondents perform maintenance when they remember, while 12% do so only when prompted by others. This approach can allow minor issues to develop into more serious and costly problems.
Allianz’s claims data underscores the consequences of insufficient maintenance. In 2024, the company processed over 78,000 home-related claims, excluding those caused by natural disasters, reflecting a nearly 5% increase from the previous year.
Water-related incidents, such as burst pipes and leaks, were among the most frequent claims. More than 19,000 claims involved water damage, some of which could have been prevented through basic checks and timely repairs, such as replacing worn hoses or inspecting seals.
The research also indicates a shift in homeowner priorities. Thirty-nine per cent (39%) of participants said they focus on the visual appeal of their homes, while 35% prioritise adding personal touches over essential maintenance.
Social media is also influencing these decisions – with 24% of respondents saying it shapes their approach to home management, and 15% admitting to prioritising aesthetics over long-term upkeep.
The study found that financial strain and the ongoing responsibilities of homeownership are contributing to maintenance delays.
Thirty-five per cent (35%) of homeowners identified cost-of-living pressures as a source of stress, and 32% said that the need for ongoing maintenance made them feel less engaged with their property.
These findings suggest that there is an opportunity for insurers and industry professionals to promote preventative maintenance as a way to reduce stress and manage costs over time.
With claims on the rise, Allianz is reminding policyholders that most insurance policies exclude coverage for damage resulting from wear and tear.
While events such as storms may be covered, gradual deterioration due to lack of maintenance typically is not. This distinction highlights the importance of regular upkeep to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
The Allianz study also found that younger and newer homeowners are generally more diligent with maintenance, while more experienced owners are more likely to report lapses.
Furthermore, 78% of respondents said their approach to maintenance has changed since purchasing their first home, with a greater focus now on visible improvements rather than essential upkeep.
A separate survey by Allianz, in April 2025, revealed that 84% of homeowners are not inspecting their properties as often as recommended. Only 16% conduct quarterly checks, and 13% inspect only when problems arise or not at all.
Allianz recommends monthly inspections to help prevent issues such as water damage, which has resulted in $864 million in claims from burst pipes over the past two years, according to Insurance Statistics Australia.
Despite the risks, only 26% of respondents conduct annual inspections, with many deterred by a lack of skills or concerns about cost. Nevertheless, 63% attempt repairs themselves without professional assistance.
In response to these trends, Allianz has introduced its Home Care Report, which provides practical advice and tips for homeowners on maintaining their properties. The report is designed to help reduce the likelihood of costly repairs and to support homeowners in managing their responsibilities more effectively.
Additionally, Allianz has piloted a Home Health Check service in 2025, conducting inspections in more than 200 homes. The service includes assessments of plumbing, drainage, mould, and the condition of fixtures.
According to Shez Ford, chief general manager consumer at Allianz Australia, the initiative was developed to address gaps identified in claims data.
Rebecca Cardamone, founder of Ace Properties Agency, noted that inspections frequently reveal concerns like water intrusion, pipe leaks, or mould – issues that could often be avoided with regular maintenance.
“Not keeping up with maintenance not only increases risks of incidents but also undermines a property’s long-term value,” she said.
