Protecting Properties During Summer Storms

The image of an Aussie summer is one of scorching hot days, languid nights, sunrises and sunsets over vast oceans, barbeques, white sandy beaches, blue skies, and alfresco living…

Summer may well be all those things, but it is also slap bang in the middle of disaster season (November to April).

As the temperature warms storms do not take a summer holiday. In fact, some of the most devastating storms and flooding occur in summer, especially along the east coast.

Accompanied by torrential rain, destructive winds, large hailstones and lightning, which can cause flash flooding, unroof buildings and damage trees or power lines, severe storms can cause major damage.

So before spring segues into summer, take the time to make sure your investment property is ready for stormy weather.

Step one: Fix the roof

• Get the roof checked for leaks and other damage.

Step two: Clean gutters, downpipes and drains

• Make sure gutters and downpipes are free of debris.

Step three: Trim trees and branches 

• Have a professional prune overhanging trees and branches on your property so they can’t fall on the home or power lines.

Step four: Maintain the yard and balcony

• Damaged windows and doors should be repaired.
• Ensure structures that could take flight in heavy winds, like pergolas, fences, above-ground pools, trampolines, roofing iron and sheds, are soundly anchored.

Step five: Check your insurance policy is current and adequate

• Take out cover well in advance. Once a disaster has struck, or is imminent, it is too late to arrange appropriate cover.
• Ensure the policy is up-to-date and the level of cover, including sum insured, is sufficient.

Although you can’t control the elements, you can prepare your investment property for rough weather. And you can also make sure you have insurance in place if your rental does suffer summer storm damage and you suffer losses – not just from damage but also potentially loss of rent.

Source: EBM Rentcover