Storms are just a fact of life here in Australia, but if you’re not careful they can lead to severe property damage. It’s vital to make sure your house is ready to handle the elements, so here are the basic steps that everyone should take to prepare for storm season.  

Ensure your gutters, downpipes and drains are clear

As a general rule, rain is better left outside the house. Your roof’s external gutters tend to become clogged with leaves and debris over the course of the year, so it’s time to clamber up the ladder and clean them all out. Otherwise, you run the risk of water pooling up and leaking in. You can always call in the pros if you’re not one for heights, but do get it done in any case.

Fix any damage to your roof

You have to give your home the best possible chance of withstanding a serious weather event, so those roof repairs you’ve been putting off are going to need sorting. Get a tradie in to fix any broken tiles and check the general integrity of the roof, as we’re sure you’d rather discover any faults before rather than during a thunderstorm.

Remove any tree branches that are overhanging your home

Trees are lovely indeed, but much less so when they’re smashing your windows and knocking down power cables. All precariously dangling branches need to be cut down in preparation for a storm, as they can cause all sorts of damage if the wind gets hold of them. It’s also a good idea to have a professional examine the roots of your trees, in case the whole thing is in danger of toppling.

Secure loose items around the property

The last thing you want is your brand new barbecue set flying in through the living room window, so take the time to tie down everything that’s lying around your yard. Better still, move it into the garage to be doubly safe. Inside the house, be sure to move all your paperwork and delicate items into the safest place you can find. You never know what could happen, so don’t take any chances.

Ensure your insurance policies are adequate and up-to-date

It’s definitely worth going over the fine print of your insurance policy long before a storm is due. You may find yourself with some hefty repair bills if you’re not properly covered. Check your home, contents and car insurance, and see if they include things like flash flooding, tree damage, and anything else you might be facing.

Keep water containers, a first-aid kit and emergency supplies on hand

If a storm is especially bad, you might find yourself needing to leave your home in a hurry. Prepare an easily transportable emergency kit with all the items you’ll require in a sticky situation. This includes clean water, a first-aid kit, and any prescription medication required by members of the household. Form a plan well in advance, and make sure everybody knows what they’re doing, where they’re going, and what they’re taking if the worst should happen.

Remember, there’s no shortage of experienced building and construction experts ready to help you storm-proof your home. Just approach things calmly and sensibly, and you should be fine.