Rainy Season Is Around the Corner: Is Your Home Ready?

When it comes to water damage, prevention is often far easier, and less expensive, than dealing with the consequences afterwards. A few simple maintenance checks around your property can make a significant difference.

Start With Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against rain. Take some time to inspect it, or arrange for a professional to do so, and look out for:

• Cracked, broken or missing roof tiles
• Loose roof sheets or flashing
• Signs of rust or deterioration
• Damaged waterproofing
• Existing leaks or water stains
• Areas where previous repairs may need attention

Small problems can quickly become much bigger when they are exposed to persistent or heavy rainfall.

Don’t Forget Your Gutters and Valleys
Gutters, downpipes and roof valleys are designed to move water safely away from your home, but they cannot do so effectively when they are blocked. Leaves, dirt and other debris can cause water to back up and overflow, potentially allowing water to enter the roof or run down walls.

Before the rainy season starts, make sure that:

• Gutters are clean and securely attached
• Downpipes are clear and flowing properly
• Roof valleys are free from leaves and debris
• Water is being directed away from the building

Look at Where Water Collects
Walk around your property and identify any areas where water tends to pool or dam up after rain. Pay particular attention to:

• Paving around the home
• Driveways
• Patios and entertainment areas
• Areas alongside exterior walls
• Stormwater drains
• Garden beds against the building
• Low-lying areas around garages or outbuildings

Maintenance and Insurance Go Hand in Hand
It is important to remember that insurance is generally designed to protect you against sudden and unforeseen events, such as storm damage. Damage that develops gradually because of deterioration, wear and tear, blocked drainage, failed waterproofing or a lack of maintenance may not necessarily be covered.

This is why regular property maintenance is so important. It not only protects your home but can also help prevent complications when a claim needs to be submitted.

A Little Prevention Can Go a Long Way

We strongly recommend taking some time before the rainy season starts to inspect your property and attend to any maintenance that may be required. Don’t wait for the first major storm to discover that a gutter is blocked, a roof tile is cracked or water has nowhere to drain.

Keeping your home properly maintained is one of the simplest ways to protect your property, and to help ensure your insurance can do what it is intended to do when something unexpected happens.

This content is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please consult a qualified financial adviser before making financial decisions.