Storms can occur all year around, in any location. Storms can bring strong winds, hail, flooding rains, lightning, and storm surge.
These events can be quick and damaging to communities. Preparing your home as recommended by your state emergency service can reduce the damage to your property and help protect you from the financial and emotional impact of storm and hail events.
Information to assist
Before
- If you have time, secure your home:
- Check for loose materials and remove or secure items (such as, garden furniture, toys, trampolines, or flags) that could cause damage if blown around in high winds or swept away in flood waters.
- Clear out your gutters, downpipes and drains to prevent blockages.
- Trim trees and branches back.
- Ensure your roof, windows, and shutters are secure.
- If possible, move your vehicle(s) under cover.
- Ensure your emergency plan and emergency kit are easily accessible.
- If you can, safely move any cars undercover if possible or use a hail protector.
During
- If you are indoors, stay away from windows.
- If you are outdoors:
- Move indoors, away from windows.
- Stay away from trees, drains, and waterways.
- If you're driving:
- Beware of any fallen trees and do not seek shelter under a tree.
- Seek shelter at a petrol station or other covered structure if possible.
- Do not continue to drive if dangerous to do so.
- Pull over and angle the vehicle so the hail stones are hitting the reinforced front windscreen.
After
- Check your property for damage.
- If emergency assistance is required contact your local state emergency service on 132 500.
- In a life-threatening emergency, call 000.
- If you have damaged property you'll be claiming for, take photos/videos and/or keep a record of model numbers.
- Throw away any food remaining in your refrigerator.
- Stay away from dangerous hazards, such as fallen powerlines, damaged roads, and floodwaters.
- Check your state emergency service or local broadcast for updates and additional safety recommendations.
Next steps for a home insurance claim
- Lodge your claim - once you have lodged your claim, if needed, we'll organise temporary repairs to help minimise further damage.
- Record your lost items – while you clean up and we finalise requirements, if you have any damaged items you’ll be claiming for, please take photos and keep a record of model numbers if possible.
- Assess the damage - we'll work with you to assess the extent of damage to your home and prepare a list of repair work required. As repairs commence, if further work is identified the list will be adjusted accordingly.
- Ready for repair - once the list of repairs has been agreed on, our builder will confirm a start date and we’ll keep you informed throughout the repair process.
- Return home - if you have been in temporary accommodation, you'll be able to move back into your home once repairs have been completed.