Get your Property ready for storm season
Proactive Property Safeguarding for Storm Season on the Gold Coast.
Summer on the Gold Coast is a time of warm days, tropical breezes—and the potential for intense storms. With frequent thunderstorm activity and high lightning strike rates, taking a proactive approach to safeguard your property is crucial during the summer storm season.
Did you know that the Gold Coast has one of the highest lightning strike rates in Australia? According to lightning expert Grant Kirkby, the region experiences about four strikes per square kilometre annually and 40-60 thunder days per year. On one particularly stormy day, the iconic Q1 building was struck by lightning while Energex reported over 265,000 lightning strikes across the Gold Coast! These staggering figures highlight why storm preparedness is essential for protecting your home or business.
Steps to Prepare Your Property for Storm Season
- Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
- Ensure there are no loose tiles, cracks, or damage that could worsen during heavy rain or wind.
- Clean your gutters and downpipes to prevent water blockages and potential flooding.
- Secure Outdoor Items
- Tie down or store loose items like patio furniture, umbrellas, and garden tools that could become projectiles in strong winds.
- Trim Overhanging Trees
- Remove dead or overhanging branches near your property to reduce the risk of damage during high winds or lightning strikes.
- Check Your Drainage System
- Inspect your yard for pooling areas and ensure water can flow away from your property during storms.
- Protect Electrical Systems
- Install surge protectors on your main power supply to safeguard appliances and electronics from power surges caused by lightning.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit
- Stock essential items like flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, bottled water, and a portable phone charger.
- Review Insurance Policies
- Ensure your property insurance covers storm damage, including flooding, lightning strikes, and wind damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
While some storm preparation tasks can be done on your own, certain areas may require professional expertise:
- Roof and Structural Inspections: Certified professionals can identify vulnerabilities that may not be visible to the untrained eye.
- Tree Maintenance: Arborists are equipped to safely trim or remove hazardous trees and branches.
- Lightning Protection Systems: If your property is in a high-risk zone, consider installing a lightning rod system for added safety.
- Security System Updates: Ensure your security systems, including alarms and cameras, are storm-resistant and have backup power sources.
Don’t Leave It to Chance—We’re Here to Help!
Protecting your property from the Gold Coast’s unpredictable storm season requires careful preparation and the right support. Eximm offer comprehensive property maintenance and storm-proofing solutions to ensure your home or business stays safe when storms hit.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about how we can help safeguard your property this summer.
Be proactive—because when the next storm rolls in, it’s likely too late to prepare.