Water damage is the #1 claim source for tilers. A dodgy membrane, a missed fall, or a bathroom waterproofing fail can cost $30K–$100K+ once you factor in ripping out tiles, repairing subfloors, damaged cabinetry and alternative accommodation. Proper tiler insurance isn't optional — it's the difference between a covered claim and closing the business.
Insurance Cover for Aussie Tilers
A proper tiler insurance package covers the five big risks: third-party liability, client tiles in your care, your gear, your ute and your income. Miss one and you're exposed.
What Actually Costs Tilers Money
These aren't hypotheticals — these are the claim types we see regularly across tiler policies. Dollar figures are indicative ranges.
Waterproofing Failure
Bathroom membrane fails 6 months in. Water ruins subfloor, damages ceiling below, cabinet swells. Rip-out, re-tile, alternative accommodation.
Client Tiles Smashed In Ute
Minor accident in the ute cracks client's imported Italian tiles. Replacement lead time 8 weeks. Delay costs plus replacement — needs Care, Custody & Control.
Slip Injury On Wet Floor
Client enters site during cleaning. Slips on wet tiles, sprains ankle, claims medical plus lost wages. Public liability handles defence and settlement.
Tools Stolen From Ute
Break-in overnight. Tile saw, levellers, grinders, laser — gone. Tool cover with new-for-old gets you back on the job fast instead of rebuilding on credit.
Damaged Underfloor Heating
Drilling or cutting nicks new underfloor heating system during install. System fails mid-winter. Replacement plus rip-up and re-lay of entire floor.
Knee Injury Off Tools
Chronic knee from constant kneeling. Surgery, 4 months off tools. Personal accident replaces income while you recover. Tiler bodies take a beating.
Tiling Work We Sort
From bathroom renos to commercial fit-outs. We cover the full scope — including waterproofing, roof tiling and stone work.
Bathroom & Wet Areas
Waterproof membrane, floor falls, splashbacks
Residential Floor & Wall
Kitchens, living areas, renovation work
Commercial Tiling
Shops, cafés, offices, apartment fit-outs
Waterproofing
Membrane systems, balconies, wet area rectification
Stone & Mosaic
Natural stone, marble, feature walls, mosaic installs
Roof Tiling
Height work priced separately — SWMS required
What Does Tiler Insurance Cost?
Pricing depends on turnover, scope (wall vs floor vs waterproofing), crew size, claims history and whether you do roof work. Here's a realistic guide.
Solo Spanner
- ✓ $5M public liability
- ✓ Basic tool cover
- ✓ Same-day certificates
- ✓ Residential focus
Growing Mob
- ✓ $10M–$20M public liability
- ✓ Care, Custody & Control
- ✓ Tools & ute cover
- ✓ Waterproofing included
- ✓ Apprentice cover
Full Commercial Op
- ✓ $20M+ public liability
- ✓ Contract works to project value
- ✓ Subcontractor cover
- ✓ Roof tiling (height declared)
- ✓ Management liability options
Tiling Licensing By State
Licensing rules vary by state and contract value. We'll confirm your obligations before issuing cover.
Tiler Insurance Across Australia
We arrange tiling insurance in every state and territory. Fast quotes for domestic, commercial and waterproofing operators.
Tiler Insurance FAQs
Q.Is public liability mandatory for tilers? +
Not always legally mandatory, but builders and commercial sites almost always require it for access. Most sites require $10M minimum, $20M for government and tier-1 work. Protects against third-party claims.
Q.Does it cover client tiles in my van? +
With a Care, Custody & Control extension, yes. Covers client-supplied tiles, materials or stock while temporarily in your custody — including damage from vehicle collisions or theft from secured storage.
Q.Do I need different cover for waterproofing? +
Possibly. Waterproofing exposure often increases premiums and may change limits or excesses because water damage claims are costly. Declare your full scope when getting a quote — undeclared waterproofing = claim denied.
Q.How much does tiler insurance cost? +
Sole trader tilers pay from $600/yr for basic PL. Small crews pay $1,800–$3,500/yr for full packages with tools, ute and care custody cover. Commercial operators pay $4,500+.
Q.What about roof tiling? +
Roof tiling involves higher working-at-heights risk, so insurers usually price it separately. You'll need to declare fall protection measures, SWMS and working heights when quoting. Mix of wall/floor and roof can often be bundled.
Q.Are apprentices covered? +
Yes, public liability covers declared apprentices and employees. Workers compensation is separately required in most states if you employ anyone.
Q.How quickly can I get insured? +
Same-day in most cases. Certificate of Currency issued within hours. Perfect if you've got a Monday start on a new site and need cover locked in fast.
Get Covered Today.
Solo tiler, full crew, or doing waterproofing and commercial fit-outs — we'll sort the right cover for your tiling business. Same-day certificates. Real Aussie brokers.