Massive Fines Hit Rogue Builders Over Fake Insurance

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

Investigations by the VBA revealed that Aycon Constructions had backed over 150 building permit applications with counterfeit domestic building insurance (DBI) records, performing building work without securing legitimate insurance policies. Builders in Victoria are legally obligated to obtain DBI for projects exceeding $16,000 to safeguard consumers and contractors alike.

The authority suspended Aycon’s operations in April after executing search warrants on multiple Melbourne sites, uncovering that the firm had been functioning without the essential DBI policies. The Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) substantiated these findings, indicating that Aycon had not only bypassed obtaining insurance for several projects but had also replicated VMIA’s logo for these false certificates.

In response to these egregious violations, Mr. Ayranci’s registration as a builder has been revoked, and he has been disqualified from the industry for three years - the maximum duration allowed under current legislation. The VBA classified Ayranci as “unfit and improper,” also stating that his actions epitomize unprofessional conduct.

Anna Cronin, Commissioner and CEO of the VBA, emphasized the regulator's unwavering stance against disreputable builders. "This unprecedented penalty exemplifies our commitment to using every tool in our regulatory arsenal to protect consumers from unethical practices and ensure compliance in the building industry," remarked Ms. Cronin. "We urge consumers always to verify their builder’s registration and confirm the presence of a valid DBI policy, which is a legal necessity."

The VBA continues to engage with affected clients of Aycon, having noted a "relatively small" yet concerning number of complaints filed in May. The agency seeks to support these customers as they navigate the repercussions of Aycon’s malpractice.

Published:Saturday, 20th Jul 2024
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

What Insurance Contract Reform Means for Income Protection Customers

04 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

New Zealand’s long-running insurance contract law reform is shifting from a technical legal issue into something everyday policyholders need to understand. The Contracts of Insurance Act modernises rules that have sat behind insurance policies for generations, including how customers disclose information, how insurers respond to non-disclosure, and how certain policy terms are treated. - read more

What NSW Emergency Services Levy Reform Could Mean for Strata Communities

01 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

New South Wales strata communities should keep a close watch on renewed efforts to reform the way emergency services are funded through insurance premiums. The long-running concern is that adding emergency services charges to insurance bills can make cover look more expensive, particularly for apartment buildings, mixed-use schemes and larger owners corporations already managing high rebuilding values and complex risk profiles. - read more

Insurance Complaints Put Claims Preparation Back in Focus

01 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority’s latest reporting has again highlighted insurance as a major source of disputes, with claim delays, communication breakdowns and disagreements over policy outcomes remaining common pressure points. For domestic and home service businesses, the message is practical: the strength of a policy is often tested not when it is bought, but when a claim is made. - read more

What Storm Claims Teach Freelancers About Cover

01 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

The insurance fallout from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred is a timely reminder that severe weather is not just a household issue. For Australian freelancers, consultants and sole traders, a storm can interrupt work, damage essential equipment, delay client delivery and expose gaps in cover that only become obvious at claim time. - read more

Why Trainers Should Recheck Cover as Costs Rise

01 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

Fresh industry commentary on business underinsurance is a timely reminder for personal trainers, fitness instructors and small studio owners to look beyond the headline price of a policy. While parts of the commercial insurance market have become more competitive, rising replacement costs and changing business models can still leave fitness operators exposed if their cover has not kept pace. - read more

Click for more Insurance News