Storm season home checklist for Australian homes
What to check before storm season — gutters, trees, roof, drainage and loose items — and what to do safely after a storm damages your home.
Key takeaways
- Most storm damage starts with blocked gutters, overhanging branches or loose outdoor items.
- Book roof and tree work before the season — not during a warning.
- After a storm, call the SES on 132 500 for urgent help and 000 if life is at risk.
When storm season hits
Severe thunderstorms can happen anywhere in Australia, with the peak generally running from spring into late summer across the east coast and south-east. Heavy rain, hail and damaging winds cause most household claims.
Before the season
Work through this list while the weather is calm:
- Have gutters and downpipes cleared and checked for sagging or rust
- Have overhanging or dead branches assessed by an arborist
- Get loose tiles, sheets, flashings and ridge capping repaired
- Check stormwater pits and drains are clear
- Know where your water, power and gas shutoffs are
- Photograph the property now as a baseline for any insurance claim
When a warning is issued
Put away or tie down outdoor furniture, trampolines and bins, park vehicles under cover and away from trees, unplug sensitive electronics, and charge phones and power banks. Follow Bureau of Meteorology warnings and your state emergency service.
After the storm
Stay away from fallen power lines — assume they are live — and report them to your electricity distributor or 000. Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof. Photograph damage from the ground before cleaning up, then arrange temporary protection and permanent repairs.
Who to call for what
Roof leaks go to a roofer, fallen trees to an arborist, overflowing gutters to a gutter or roof plumbing specialist, broken windows to a glazier, and water near electrics to an electrician. One Fixit247 request can describe the whole situation.
General information only, reviewed for Australian conditions. Rules differ between states and territories and change over time, so confirm details with the relevant regulator. Call 000 in an emergency. Editorial policy
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