Suncorp executive general manager of home claims customers, Alli Smith, says that this data should encourage all Australians to prepare where they can in advance of storm season, even if their suburb isn’t listed as a hotspot:
“When times are tough, it can be hard to prioritise things like home maintenance, particularly spending money on improving the resilience of your home. However, many of these tasks don’t cost or take long, and can be well worth the investment to strengthen the resilience of their biggest asset.”
Suncorp’s top tips to prepare for storm season
- Securing and putting away loose items around your backyard or balcony.
- Trimming trees and branches that could fall onto your home or car.
- Cleaning your gutters, downpipes and drains of leaves and debris.
- Parking your vehicles under cover and away from trees or powerlines.
- Inspecting retaining walls.
- Ensuring there’s no corrosion, loose fittings or rotting timber around your property.
- Inspecting your roof for damaged or loose tiles.
As well as preparing your home for a storm, it’s important to check your home insurance policy to make sure you have sufficient coverage in case you are struck by storms or floods, regardless of where you’re living in Australia. Be sure to check the PDS and compare policy options from alternate insurers to work out if you could be getting a deal that’s better-suited to your situation. You don’t have to wait for your policy’s renewal date - you can switch home insurance any time if you choose.
