What does the Perth bushfire mean for insurance claims in WA?

Expect higher near‑term residential claims for partial building damage, smoke, and outbuildings, plus demand for temporary accommodation. Assessors may prioritise severe losses, so minor repairs can take longer. Document damage with photos and item lists, lodge early, and keep receipts for emergency expenses to support a faster assessment and settlement.

How soon should affected homeowners file insurance claims?

File as soon as it is safe. Create a photo log, list damaged items with approximate purchase dates, and secure the site to prevent further loss. Keep receipts for tarps, boarding, or accommodation. Early, complete submissions help insurers triage accurately and reduce back‑and‑forth, which can speed cash settlements.

Are premiums likely to rise after WA bushfires?

Premiums and excesses can move higher in fire‑exposed postcodes after events. Insurers reassess hazard models, rebuild costs, and reinsurance. To manage costs, check for discounts tied to mitigation, update sums insured to avoid underinsurance, and compare policies at renewal. Improving property resilience may support better pricing over time.

What can landlords and small businesses do right now?

Document tenant or trading impacts, notify insurers, and secure sites. Prepare interim repair scopes, confirm contractor availability, and store records centrally for adjusters. Review business interruption terms, including waiting periods and utilities extensions. Communicate timelines to tenants and staff so reopening plans align with access, safety checks, and power restoration.

Law and Government

January 30: Perth Bushfire Spurs Insurance, Property Risk After Damage

ByDanny Kontos January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

The Perth bushfire in Ellenbrook has damaged 6 to 8 properties and triggered emergency warnings as hot, windy conditions persist. On 30 January 2026, we assess how this event, alongside a Great Southern blaze where crews saved 30 homes, shapes near‑term insurance claims and property risk in WA. Investors should expect operational disruption for local businesses and higher claims volumes. We outline what happened, the insurance outlook, property readiness, and the signals to watch today.