The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) says a new online building product comparison tool could help eradicate “poor building material choices” which have led to problems such as flammable cladding.

Head of Risk and Operations Karl Sullivan says the new website, BPI Rating, will help building professionals “find and compare compliant, resilient and sustainable products developed by responsible manufacturers”.

Mr Sullivan told insuranceNEWS.com.au that ICA supports the website to help “avoid future flammable cladding-style events” and also assist with the transition to a lower carbon economy.

“The tool will assist the industry to highlight building materials (or uses of building materials) that are creating safety concerns or are spiking insurance claims and leading to premium increases or exclusions,” he said.

“Once fully matured this tool will provide a mechanism for the industry to promote correct maintenance practices for Australian building materials. For example, educating homeowners whose iron roof is rusty to consider their options before the next cyclone season arrives.”

The BPI Rating website was created by environmental consultant Edge Environment and software solutions specialist Comply Flow, with the support of ICA.

Mr Sullivan says building product suppliers and manufacturers should use the website to add products, which they can do free of charge.