Us Queenslanders are getting better at extreme weather proofing, with only 3% of roofs ripped off during Cyclone Yasi (compared with 20% in the 1980s). If you’re new to the area and aren’t sure where to start with storm proofing your property, here’s the basics.

Doors

Secure them with barrel bolts. If a door facing the wind fails, a lot of pressure suddenly enters the house, putting your roof under considerable strain. Roller doors designed for cyclones are also recommended.

Roofs

Roofs shaped like a pyramid often survive better than gabled roofs that are angled on only two sides.

Guttering

Firmly secure all guttering to the house. You don’t want any falling off and causing damage during a storm.

Large items

Water tanks, fences, sheds and any other large items need to be secured with proper foundations. The last thing you want is for these items to be moving around during a storm.

Windows

Think mesh screens, bolted shutters and shatterproof glass. Don’t open windows on the downwind side.

A shelter room

It may seem a bit overkill, but a concrete shelter room with reinforced walls that’s stocked with supplies can be invaluable.

Waterproof sealing

Pressure differences in and outside the house can suck water inside. Sealing the gaps can keep your home interior dry.

Trees

Trim back any tree branches that are too close to your property.

Roof cladding

Don’t secure your roof cladding with nails, just battens, screws or clips to keep your cladding where you want it – on the roof!

Planning goes a long way

If you’re in a storm prone area, have a plan for when the weather warning comes in. Know where your garden items will be stored (or have them securely stowed when not in use) and be ready to act fast.
The elevation of your home will impact how much storm protection you need. If you’re unsure, drop me a line for a chat about any improvements that need to be made before storm season.

Home warranty insurance protects your home should you have work done over the value of $3,300. The premium is paid by the builder, and passed on to you as an upfront fee in the contract. For this reason it’s vitally important to have a signed contract with your builder – it’s a legal requirement and is your ticket to some protection should anything go wrong. The insurance company send a Certificate of Insurance before the work begins, so you know you’re covered.

Your home warranty insurance may provide protection if:

• A licensed builder does not complete the work
• The builder fails to fix the problem
• The building suffers from subsidence

If the insurer pays a claim, they are then reimbursed by the builder. The insurance company provide cover for many types of claim, including:

• A new home (not more than 3 storey high)
• An extension, alteration, renovation or repair (not more than 3 storey high).
• Refit of a kitchen or bathroom
• Work on decking or a veranda
• Structural work

Works not insured are:

• Painting
• Electrical work
• Air conditioning
• Swimming pools
• Driveways, paths, roads
• fences

Cover lasts a maximum of 6 years and 6 months. If the work takes longer than 6 months to complete the cover period can be extended.
That’s the basics of Home Warranty Insurance in Queensland, for more information give me a shout, or take a look at The Queensland Building and Construction Commission website.