Key Takeaway

Accidental damage has overtaken storm, fire, and theft as the leading cause of home insurance claims in South Australia. These claims, which include everything from a child’s cricket ball through a window to spilled paint on carpet, are often only covered if you have opted for accidental damage as an add-on to your standard home and contents policy. Most basic policies exclude accidental damage, so check your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to confirm whether you are covered.

What Counts as Accidental Damage

Accidental damage refers to sudden, unintentional harm to your home or belongings that is not the result of a named peril like fire, storm, or theft. Common examples include a dropped laptop, a knocked-over TV, red wine spilled on a sofa, or a football breaking a glass door.

According to the Insurance Council of Australia, accidental damage claims have surged in South Australia as more policyholders work from home and families spend extended time indoors (Insurance Council of Australia, 2026). The increased household activity has led to more everyday mishaps.

Accidental damage cover is typically an optional extra on home and contents policies. It is not automatically included in basic building or contents insurance, which usually only covers specific events such as fire, storm, flood (if purchased separately), theft, and malicious damage.

Why Accidental Damage Claims Are Rising in SA

Several factors have contributed to the rise in accidental damage claims across South Australia:

  • More time at home: Remote work arrangements and hybrid schedules mean people are using household items, electronics, and furniture more intensively during traditional work hours.
  • Increased home activity: Families with children at home during school holidays and weekends see a higher rate of accidental breakages, from trampolines damaging fences to sporting equipment damaging glass.
  • Higher-value contents: Modern homes contain more expensive electronics and appliances, making each accidental damage event costlier to repair or replace.

The trend is not unique to South Australia, but SA has seen a sharper uptick compared to other states, likely due to a combination of housing stock age and demographics.

What Your Policy Covers (and What It Does Not)

Standard home insurance without accidental damage cover will not pay for most everyday mishaps. ASIC MoneySmart advises checking your PDS carefully, as exclusions vary by insurer (MoneySmart, 2026).

Read also: Why Homeowners in Australia Should Not Cut Storm Insurance Cover as Cyclone Season Nears

Typically covered with accidental damage add-on:

  • Broken glass (windows, mirrors, glass tabletops)
  • Damaged floors, carpets, or walls from spills or impacts
  • Electronics dropped or knocked over
  • Furniture accidentally scratched or broken

Typically excluded even with accidental damage:

  • Wear and tear or gradual deterioration
  • Damage by pets (chewing, scratching)
  • Damage caused intentionally or by poor maintenance
  • Damage during renovations or alterations

Always read the PDS and the Target Market Determination (TMD) for your specific policy. Excess (the amount you pay per claim) on accidental damage claims is often higher than for other claim types, sometimes A$500 to A$1,000 or more.

Should You Add Accidental Damage Cover

Whether accidental damage cover is worth the extra premium depends on your household and risk tolerance. Consider adding it if you have young children, valuable electronics, expensive furniture, or a high-traffic household where accidents are more likely.

If you rarely experience mishaps and have a low-value contents list, the additional premium may not justify the peace of mind. Compare quotes with and without the add-on, and weigh the premium against the excess and likely claim scenarios for your situation.

Speak with a licensed insurance adviser or broker if you are unsure which level of cover suits your needs. They can assess your household’s risk profile and recommend appropriate cover limits and optional add-ons.

General Advice Warning

This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before acting on it, consider whether it is appropriate for you. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD), and consider obtaining personal advice from a licensed insurance adviser. Cover, exclusions, premiums, and availability vary by insurer and by state or territory. Confirm current terms and conditions with your insurer or a licensed adviser before making a decision.