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New research by James Cook University’s Cyclone Testing Station found that 70% of strata-property claims examined included damage due to water ingress, despite most properties withstanding severe structural damage.
“After testing several solutions, we found a cheap and easy way for homeowners to fend off water coming in through windows and sliding doors – a strip of plastic sheet taped on the inside of the window,” said David Henderson from the Cyclone Testing Station. “The plastic sheet increased the height of the window sill, caught the water, and allowed it to drain via the weep holes.”
Henderson said water damage caused by wind-driven rain to plasterboard wall linings and ceilings, floor coverings, electricity wiring, cabinetry, and personal items, ranged from two to 60% of total claim costs.
“Water can wreak havoc in a cyclone – past events have found buildings that appeared visibly fine disguised significant interior damage caused by wind-driven rain throughout the home,” said Gary Dransfield, Suncorp Insurance CEO. “Now is the time for communities living in cyclone-prone regions to complete a thorough inspection of their property for any structural issues like cracked roof tiles or broken veranda posts, and non-structural elements like sealant around window sills.”
Dransfield said there’s also a need to be extra vigilant when designing and building homes and unit blocks.
Steve Fitzpatrick, IAG executive general manager of short tails claims, urged residents in cyclone-prone areas to make the simple mitigation initiative a part of their storm-season preparations, to help reduce the physical and financial costs of natural disasters, as well as its social and emotional impacts.
