Town Planners can face claims or complaints arising from their professional advice, reports, applications and project involvement.

Common allegations can include:

• Incorrect advice about zoning, overlays or permitted land use.
• Failure to identify a planning restriction or approval requirement.
• Incomplete or inaccurate planning reports.
• Errors in development or subdivision applications.
• Failure to meet an agreed submission deadline.
• Advice that allegedly causes project delays or additional costs.
• Failure to properly explain the likelihood or conditions of an approval.
• Disputes about the scope of services or responsibility for an application.
• Advice relating to rezoning, development potential or subdivision that does not produce the expected outcome.

A claim can still require legal advice and a formal response even when the Town Planner believes their work was correct. Whether a particular matter is covered will depend on the policy wording, the circumstances and when the matter was first identified and notified.

Good engagement letters, clearly documented advice and accurate records can help reduce misunderstandings and assist in the defence of a claim.

If you become aware of a complaint, demand or circumstance that may lead to a claim, contact your usual Webber Insurance broker or email [email protected] as soon as possible. Do not admit liability, agree to a settlement or incur significant costs without first obtaining instructions.