Spring is in full swing, but those who live on the east coast of Australia know that the storm season often comes along with the warmer, humid weather. You won’t need to worry too much about the seasonal activity if you have an action plan in place for your property. Here are eight tips to help:
1. Clear the gutters!
It’s important to have no clogging happening around your house, because the moment the rain starts pouring into buckets, you don’t want to find out about clogs too late. Make sure leaves, broken branches and your kids tennis balls aren’t blocking flowing water in your gutters. Otherwise rain may overflow into small gaps in the walls, causing significant damage to the health of your house structure. Be sure to also secure and seal your roof if you have any concerns that it may leak.
2. Clear the trees that are too close
Having magnificent trees in your home can add a great aesthetic to your place. However, it may cause an issue if the health of your trees aren’t great. If there are some very close to your house, have someone check if there is a possible risk of falling trees. If so, be sure to have reinforcement completed on the trees to prevent falling, or have the tree cut down.
3. Seal windows and doors
Leaking windows and doors may not seem like a big problem until the storm hits. Puddles build up fast, so it is essential to be prepared and seal any gaps. This can be done at a very low cost and sealant can be used to quickly touch up any other places in your house whenever you need to. This simple trick can save you time and money and also your favourite towels from being used to soak up the puddles.
4. Secure outdoor items
Those yearly storm season ads remind everyone to secure their outdoor items, but many seem to always forget. You may think your table or bike can withstand the force of storm winds, but let’s not wait to find out. If you can, move the items inside your home temporarily, or tie your items down securely. You’d be saving yourself the hassle of dealing with broken doors or windows, so don’t take the risk.
5. Reinforce the garage door
A common area that is the first to get damaged or flooded is the garage. If you can, clear out any items prone to water damage and if you really need to, reinforce your garage door to withstand heavy force. This way you’ll have an extra layer of protection for your home, keeping the inner areas more secure.
6. Check walls and ceilings for cracks, gaps & holes
Cracks, gaps and holes in houses are the easiest points for water to seep in and damage the house. Thinking long-term as well, this can also weaken the houses value in the property market. Either start sealing things yourself, or have someone come in to secure any weak areas of your house that need a face-lift. This way you’re taking care of your house in the short and long-term.
7. Have an emergency kit
Power outages can often happen, and you never know how long they’re going to last. Having an emergency kit can come in very handy in these situations. Definitely have a torch, there’s only so long that your phone’s flashlight can work before your battery dies. Nowadays, you can also get portable power pack for your phones, so keep a fully charged pack ready. If you’re prone to long-term power outages also pack non-perishable food like packaged snacks and canned food. A first-aid kit is essential as well, in case of emergency.
8. Review insurance policies
No one likes hearing that their insurance provider doesn’t cover them for the issue at hand. So before anything comes up check your Insurance Product Disclosure Statement to see what you are covered for; and ensure that if you are prone to storm damage, your insurance provider is helping to protect your assets.