Spring is here, and with it comes the start of storm season along much of the east coast. A bit of work on your roof, gutters and yard now can save you from leaks, fallen branches and a stressful clean-up later. Here's a simple checklist, plus when it makes sense to call in a pro.
When is storm season?
It depends on where you live. The NSW Government says the risk of strong winds and heavy rain increases between October and March. In Queensland, the Bureau of Meteorology describes October to April as the peak time for storms, tropical cyclones and floods, with the east coast at highest risk of severe thunderstorms from October to December.
Wherever you are, the best time to prepare is before the first big storm, not after it.
Check your roof
Your roof takes the brunt of wind, rain and hail. The NSW SES recommends looking for leaks and repairing damage such as loose tiles, metal sheets and screws, and clearing built-up dirt that can block drainage channels.
Things to look for:
- broken, cracked or missing tiles
- loose or rusted roof sheets and screws
- damaged flashing around chimneys, skylights and vents
- water stains on ceilings, which can point to an existing leak
Getting on a roof is risky. If you're not confident and properly equipped, have a roofer inspect it and quote on any repairs. Ask for photos of any problems they find so you can see what you're paying for.
Clean your gutters, downpipes and drains
Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of storm water getting where it shouldn't. The NSW SES warns that blockages can make water overflow under the eaves and into the roof cavity. It also suggests clearing leaves from roof valleys and keeping drains around your property clear, including grates hidden under pot plants.
You can do this yourself if you're safe on a ladder, or book a gutter cleaning service. If you clean gutters often, ask about gutter guards. The NSW Government also suggests leaf stoppers, first-flush diverters and gutter guards if you have a rainwater tank.
Deal with trees and branches
Falling branches cause a lot of storm damage. Trim anything that overhangs your roof, driveway or power lines to your house, and clean up garden debris and green waste.
Before you cut, check with your local council, as many councils have rules about pruning or removing trees. For anything big or close to the house, hire a qualified, insured arborist. The NSW SES suggests having a qualified arborist inspect trees every two to three years, and reminds homeowners that tree work is dangerous.
Never prune near power lines yourself. Contact your electricity distributor for advice.
Electrical safety
Storms bring lightning, wet conditions and power outages. The NSW Government recommends making sure your house has a safety switch and protecting devices with surge protectors.
A licensed electrician can:
- check that safety switches are installed and working
- advise on surge protection for your switchboard
- inspect outdoor lights, power points and wiring that may be exposed to the weather
It's also worth knowing where your main switch, water mains and gas shut-off are, so you can turn them off if emergency services tell you to.
Windows, doors and seals
Check that windows and doors close and seal properly, and repair any broken glass before storm season. Queensland Government advice also suggests fixing corrosion, loose fittings and rotting or termite-affected timber, and repairing broken sealant around window sills.
If you live somewhere prone to severe storms, ask a glazier or builder about shutters or security screens. The QBCC suggests protecting skylights with wire mesh and fitting window and door openings with shutters or security screens.
Secure the yard
Outdoor furniture, trampolines, bins and toys can become dangerous in strong winds. Work out now where you'd store them, and bring them in or tie them down when a warning is issued. Park cars under cover or away from trees, and cover them if hail is forecast.
Get your paperwork ready
- Insurance: check your home and contents policy is current and covers the risks where you live.
- Emergency plan: agree as a household where you'd shelter. This is usually the smallest room with the fewest windows.
- Emergency kit: a torch, a battery radio, spare batteries, a first aid kit, medications and charged phones and power banks.
Hiring tradies before (and after) a storm
Tradies get busy once storm season starts, so book inspections and repairs early. A few tips:
- Get two or three written quotes for bigger jobs.
- Check the tradie's licence where one is needed. Our guide to checking a tradie's licence explains how.
- Ask about insurance, especially for roof and tree work.
- After a storm, be wary of anyone who knocks on your door offering repairs and wants cash up front. Talk to your insurer before you agree to any work.
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Frequently asked questions
When should I prepare my home for storm season?
Before the season starts. In NSW the risk is higher from October to March, and in Queensland from October to April, so spring is a good time to get it done.
Who should I call to check my roof?
A roofer can inspect your roof and quote on repairs. Check their licence where your state requires one, and ask about insurance.
Can I trim trees myself before a storm?
Small, low branches may be fine, but check your council's rules first. For large trees, or anything near your home or power lines, hire a qualified, insured arborist.
Who do I call for storm damage?
In an emergency, call 000. For help with storm damage such as a damaged roof or fallen tree, contact your state's SES. In both NSW and Queensland the SES number for storm and flood help is 132 500 (see the NSW SES and Queensland SES). The SES makes things temporarily safe, so you'll still need your insurer or a tradie for permanent repairs.
This guide is general information only, not legal or financial advice. Rules change, so check the official sources linked above for your state.