Pre-Storm Home Checklist Northern Rivers

Northern Rivers Storm History

The Northern Rivers is no stranger to severe weather. Every year between November and April, the region faces a combination of tropical cyclones, east coast lows, severe thunderstorms, and prolonged heavy rainfall events that can cause significant damage to homes and properties. The peak risk period is February and March, when ocean temperatures are at their highest and tropical weather systems are most active.

The region has experienced several major storm events in recent years that caused widespread property damage. The February and March 2022 floods devastated Lismore, Ballina, Mullumbimby, and surrounding areas with record-breaking rainfall. Cyclone activity in the Coral Sea regularly sends severe weather systems down the coast that impact the Northern Rivers with destructive winds, torrential rain, and dangerous storm surges along the coastline from Tweed Heads to Ballina.

East coast lows are perhaps the most common cause of storm damage in the Northern Rivers. These intense low-pressure systems form off the coast and can bring days of heavy rain, damaging winds exceeding 100 kilometres per hour, and massive seas. Unlike tropical cyclones which are tracked for days before they arrive, east coast lows can develop rapidly and catch homeowners off guard. The lesson from every major weather event is the same: preparation makes an enormous difference to how much damage your property sustains and how quickly you can recover.

Storm preparation and home maintenance in the Northern Rivers region

Complete Pre-Storm Checklist

Work through this list before storm season to protect your home

Storm preparation is not something you can leave until the Bureau issues a warning. By then it is too late to fix the gutters, repair the fence, or reseat loose roof tiles. The time to prepare is in the weeks before storm season starts, ideally by late October or early November. Here is a comprehensive checklist that covers the key areas of your home that need attention before the wet season arrives.

Roof Inspection

Your roof is the single most important line of defence against storm damage. A few loose tiles or a cracked piece of ridge capping can turn a manageable storm into a major water damage event. Walk around your property and look at the roof from ground level. Use binoculars if needed. You are looking for cracked, broken, or displaced tiles or sheets, damaged or missing ridge capping, rust spots on metal roofing, lifted or curled edges on sheets, and any visible gaps where water could enter. If you can safely access the roof, check that all fixings are tight and that nothing has worked loose since the last storm season. For Colorbond and metal roofs, check that the screws are tight and the rubber washers underneath have not perished. A single missing screw in the wrong spot can let wind get under a sheet and peel it back during a storm.

Gutter Clearing

Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of preventable storm damage. When gutters are full of leaves and debris, heavy rain has nowhere to go. Water overflows down the walls, pools at the base of the house, and can enter through any gap in the cladding or around windows. Before storm season, clear all gutters and downpipes completely. Check that downpipes are firmly connected and directing water away from the house. Look for any sections of gutter that are sagging, rusted through, or pulling away from the fascia. For more on this, see my gutter cleaning service.

Fence Securing

Fences take a hammering in Northern Rivers storms. High winds hit fence panels like sails, and if the posts or rails are weakened, entire sections can blow over. Check all fence posts for rot at the base, particularly timber posts that sit in the ground. Push against each panel to test for movement. Tighten any loose bolts or screws on rails and brackets. Replace any palings or panels that are cracked or split, as these are weak points where wind gets through and creates leverage. A fence that falls in a storm can damage your property, your neighbour's property, or both. For fence repair work, check my fence repairs page.

Loose Items

Anything that is not anchored down becomes a projectile in high winds. This includes outdoor furniture, pot plants, garden ornaments, children's toys, trampolines, shade sails, and even wheelie bins. Before a storm hits, either bring these items inside or secure them so they cannot move. Trampolines should be turned upside down and weighted or tied down. Shade sails should be removed entirely because they catch wind and can rip mounting points out of walls and posts. Garden furniture should be stacked and tied together or brought into the garage.

Window Protection

Windows are vulnerable to both wind pressure and flying debris during storms. Check all windows for cracked or broken panes, failed putty or glazing seals, and damaged or loose frames. Ensure windows can close fully and latch securely. For homes in high-risk areas or with large windows, consider having plywood sheets cut to size that can be screwed over windows when a severe storm is approaching. Even taping an X pattern across glass with strong tape can reduce the risk of a shattered window sending glass shards through the room, though this is a last resort rather than a proper preparation measure.

Tree Branches Near the House

Overhanging branches are one of the biggest causes of storm damage to roofs and gutters in the Northern Rivers. The dense subtropical vegetation that makes the region beautiful also creates serious risks during severe weather. Any branch that overhangs your roof, sits within falling distance of your house, or hangs near power lines should be assessed and trimmed before storm season. For small branches, this is a straightforward job. For large trees, a qualified arborist should do the work. I can help with access platforms and post-trimming cleanup, and I repair damage caused by fallen branches including roof repairs, gutter replacement, and fence rebuilding.

Room by Room Storm Preparation

A systematic approach to making sure nothing gets missed

Working through your property area by area ensures you cover everything. Here is a room-by-room breakdown of what to check and fix before storm season in the Northern Rivers.

Exterior Walls and Cladding

Walk around the outside of your home and check the cladding for damage. Weatherboard homes should be checked for gaps between boards, loose or warped boards, and areas where paint has failed and timber is exposed to moisture. Brick homes need checking for cracked mortar joints, particularly around windows and doors. Fibro and rendered homes should be checked for cracks, chips, and areas where the surface has deteriorated. Any gap or crack in the exterior cladding is a potential entry point for wind-driven rain during a storm. Seal these before the wet season starts.

Roof and Gutters

Beyond the general roof check covered above, pay attention to flashings around chimneys, vent pipes, skylights, and where the roof meets walls. Flashings are thin metal strips that seal these junctions, and they are a common source of leaks when they lift, corrode, or separate. Check the roof valley gutters if you have them, as these carry concentrated water flow and any blockage causes immediate overflow into the ceiling cavity. Inspect the fascia boards that gutters attach to for rot or softness, because gutters cannot stay up if the fascia behind them is compromised.

Windows and Doors

Test every window and door in the house. They should open, close, and latch smoothly and securely. Check weatherstrips and seals around the frames for gaps, cracks, or missing sections. Sliding doors need their tracks cleaned and drainage holes cleared so water does not pool and overflow inside during heavy rain. Check that all locks work because a door that blows open during a storm lets wind pressure into the house, which dramatically increases the risk of roof lift. For timber windows and doors that have swollen or warped, a quick trim and adjustment now prevents problems when it matters most.

Deck and Outdoor Areas

Check deck boards for loose fixings, rot, and structural integrity. A deck board that lifts in high wind can injure someone or damage the house. Tighten all screws and replace any boards that are split or compromised. Check deck railings for stability. Pergola structures should be checked for loose connections and any signs of movement. Outdoor shade structures, awnings, and sail shades should be assessed for their ability to handle high winds, and if there is any doubt, remove them entirely before storm season. It is much cheaper to reinstall a shade sail than to repair the damage from one that rips out its mountings in a storm.

Garage and Shed

Garages and sheds are particularly vulnerable to storm damage because they often have large door openings that catch wind. Check garage doors for proper operation and ensure they can be securely closed and locked. Roller doors should be checked for damaged or missing slats and tested for smooth operation. Shed roofs and walls need the same attention as the main house, including checking for rust, loose fixings, and gaps in the cladding. Secure everything stored inside so it cannot move if wind enters through a damaged panel. If your shed has a concrete slab, check the tie-down bolts are still secure.

Interior Preparation

Inside the house, identify which rooms are most vulnerable to water entry. These are typically rooms with windows facing the prevailing storm direction, which in the Northern Rivers is usually east to northeast for tropical systems and south to southeast for east coast lows. Have towels, plastic sheeting, and buckets ready to manage any water that does get in. Move valuable items and electronics away from windows. Know where your electrical switchboard is located so you can shut off circuits quickly if water enters the house. Check that your smoke detectors and any battery-powered emergency lighting are working.

What Dan Can Fix Before Storm Season

The repairs that make the biggest difference to storm resilience

Most of the storm preparation work that homeowners need done falls squarely into handyman territory. These are the jobs I do most often in the lead-up to storm season across the Northern Rivers, and they are the ones that make the biggest difference when severe weather hits.

Loose and Blocked Gutters

I clean gutters, resecure sagging sections, replace rusted or damaged lengths, and ensure downpipes are clear and directing water away from the house. If your gutters overflow every time it rains heavily, they need attention before storm season when the rainfall intensity is far greater. I also install gutter guard on properties where leaf drop from surrounding trees is a constant problem. A gutter system that is clean, secure, and draining properly is one of the most effective storm damage prevention measures there is. See my gutter cleaning page for more details.

Broken Fence Panels

I repair and replace damaged fence palings, panels, rails, and posts. For timber fences, I check the posts for rot at ground level and replace them if they are compromised. I tighten all hardware, replace missing screws and bolts, and reinforce weak sections. For Colorbond fences, I refix loose panels, replace damaged sections, and check that all posts are plumb and secure. A solid fence stands up to wind much better than one that is already weakened by rot, loose fixings, or missing panels. See my fence repairs page for more information.

Cracked Windows and Failed Seals

I replace cracked window panes, reseal windows with new putty or silicone, replace worn weatherstrips, and adjust windows and doors that are not closing properly. For timber windows, I can plane and adjust frames that have swollen or warped so they close and latch securely. Every window and door that does not seal properly is a potential water entry point during a storm.

Damaged Roof Tiles and Fixings

I reseat loose tiles, replace cracked or broken tiles, repoint ridge capping, and tighten roof sheet fixings. For metal roofs, I replace perished screw washers, tighten loose screws, and seal any gaps around penetrations. I also repair damaged or lifted flashings that are common leak points during heavy rain. Roof work should be done well before storm season when conditions are safe and dry.

Loose Deck Boards and Railings

I tighten and replace loose deck screws, replace split or rotten deck boards, resecure wobbly railings, and check structural connections underneath. A deck that is in good repair handles storms much better than one with loose boards and compromised structure. I use stainless steel fixings for all coastal properties to prevent corrosion failures during wet weather.

Tree Limb Trimming Access

While I do not do the actual tree cutting for large trees, which needs a qualified arborist, I can build temporary access platforms, remove smaller branches that are within safe reach, and clean up after tree work has been done. I also repair any damage that overhanging branches have already caused, including scratched or dented roofing, blocked gutters, and damaged fences. If you need a pre-storm property assessment and repair package, call me on 0481 457271 and I will work through your property systematically.

Emergency Kit Preparation

What every Northern Rivers household should have ready before storm season

Having the right supplies ready before a storm hits makes a significant difference to how well you cope during and after the event. Power outages, road closures, and supply disruptions are common during severe weather in the Northern Rivers, and you may be without mains power or unable to leave your property for several days.

Every Northern Rivers household should have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio so you can receive emergency broadcasts when the power is out and phone networks are down. A quality torch with spare batteries, or better yet a rechargeable lantern, provides light during power outages. A fully stocked first aid kit is essential, including any prescription medications that household members rely on. Keep at least three days' supply of drinking water, roughly 10 litres per person, stored in clean containers. Non-perishable food that does not require cooking or refrigeration should be stocked, along with a manual can opener.

Keep your phone fully charged when storms are forecast and have a portable power bank charged and ready. A waterproof container or bag for important documents like insurance policies, passports, and identification is a good idea, as is having digital copies stored in cloud storage. Keep a supply of heavy-duty garbage bags, duct tape, and plastic sheeting for emergency waterproofing if a window breaks or the roof starts leaking. A basic tool kit with a hammer, screwdriver, pliers, and a utility knife lets you make temporary repairs during the event. If you have a generator, make sure it is tested, fuelled, and you know how to use it safely, which means outside only, never inside the house or garage where exhaust fumes can accumulate.

Insurance Documentation Tips

Protect your claim before the damage happens

Insurance claims after storm damage go much more smoothly when you have solid documentation of your property's condition before the event. Taking the time to document your home before storm season is one of the smartest things you can do as a Northern Rivers homeowner.

Photograph Everything

Walk through your entire property, inside and out, and take detailed photographs. Cover every room, every external wall, the roof from multiple angles, all fences, the garage, the deck, and any outbuildings. Photograph valuable items and their serial numbers. Pay particular attention to areas that are most likely to sustain storm damage, including the roof, gutters, windows, and fences. Date-stamped photos that clearly show the condition of your property before a storm are powerful evidence when making a claim.

Keep Receipts for Maintenance and Repairs

Save receipts for all maintenance and repair work done on your property. This includes gutter cleaning, roof repairs, fence work, and any other preventive maintenance. These receipts demonstrate to your insurer that you have been maintaining the property, which strengthens your claim and counters any suggestion that damage was caused by neglect rather than the storm. I provide detailed invoices for all work done that can serve as maintenance records.

Review Your Policy Before Storm Season

Read your insurance policy carefully before storm season starts, not after you need to make a claim. Understand what is covered and what is excluded. Pay attention to flood exclusions, which are common and separate from storm damage cover. Know your excess amount. Check whether your sum insured is adequate to cover the current replacement cost of your home and contents, because building costs have increased significantly in recent years and many Northern Rivers homeowners are underinsured. If you have any questions about your cover, call your insurer and get clarity in writing before the storms arrive.

I can provide a pre-storm condition report for your property that includes photographs and a written assessment of the current state of the roof, gutters, fences, cladding, and other external elements. This document can be valuable supporting evidence for any future insurance claim. Call me on 0481 457271 to arrange an assessment.

Post-Storm Assessment

What to check first and when to call for help

After a storm passes, the temptation is to rush outside and start assessing damage. Safety comes first. Wait until the Bureau of Meteorology has cleared the severe weather warning for your area before going outside. Be aware that downed power lines, weakened trees, and structurally compromised buildings pose serious risks after a storm.

What to Check First

Once it is safe, start with a walk around the outside of your property. Look at the roof from ground level for missing tiles or sheets, displaced ridge capping, and any visible damage. Check the gutters for damage or blockage from storm debris. Look at the walls for impact damage from flying debris, fallen branches, or water staining that indicates leaks. Check all fences. Look at trees for broken branches that are hanging and could still fall. Inside the house, check ceilings for water stains or bulging that indicates water pooling above. Check around windows and doors for water entry. If you can smell gas or suspect electrical damage, leave the house immediately and call the relevant emergency service.

When to Call a Handyman

Call me for non-emergency repairs that need doing promptly but are not life-threatening. This includes temporary tarping of a leaking roof to prevent further water damage, boarding up broken windows, clearing fallen branches off the house or fence, repairing fence sections that have blown over, resecuring loose roofing, and cleaning up storm debris. I carry tarps, plywood, and emergency repair materials so I can make your home secure quickly. For emergency repair work, I prioritise making the property safe and watertight first, with permanent repairs scheduled once the weather settles. For storm damage in the Byron Bay area, also see my storm damage emergency response page.

When to Call Emergency Services

Call the SES on 132 500 for fallen trees on houses, major structural damage, and flood rescue. Call 000 for life-threatening situations including downed power lines, gas leaks, and injuries. Do not attempt to remove trees from roofs yourself as the structure may be compromised. Do not enter flood water. Do not touch any fallen power lines or anything in contact with them. Your safety is more important than any property damage.

After the immediate emergency is handled, I can come in and do all the repair work needed to get your property back to normal. From temporary fixes to permanent repairs, I cover the full scope of storm damage restoration across all Northern Rivers areas. Call me on 0481 457271.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is storm season in the Northern Rivers?

The Northern Rivers storm season runs primarily from November through to April, with the highest risk period being February and March. East coast lows can occur outside this window but the most damaging events typically fall within the wet season months. Preparation should be completed by late October or early November. Call 0481 457271 to book pre-storm repairs.

How much does pre-storm home preparation cost?

Costs depend on the scope of work. Gutter cleaning starts from $120. Fence panel repairs cost $150-$400. Roof tile reseating costs $200-$500. A comprehensive pre-storm package for a typical Northern Rivers home ranges from $300-$1,500 depending on the property condition. Prevention is far cheaper than storm damage repairs. Call 0481 457271 for an assessment.

What should I check first before a storm hits?

Start with the roof and gutters as your first line of defence. Check for loose or cracked tiles, damaged ridge capping, and blocked gutters. Then check fences, outdoor furniture, and loose items that can become projectiles. Secure anything not anchored down. Finally check windows and doors for proper sealing. Call 0481 457271 if you find issues that need fixing.

Can you fix storm damage after the event?

Yes, I provide emergency repair services after storms across the Northern Rivers. This includes temporary tarping of damaged roofs, boarding up broken windows, clearing fallen branches, emergency fence repairs, and making properties safe until permanent repairs can be completed. Call 0481 457271 for emergencies.

Should I trim trees near my house before storm season?

Absolutely. Overhanging branches are one of the biggest causes of storm damage to Northern Rivers homes. Branches that overhang the roof, sit near power lines, or could fall onto the house should be trimmed well before storm season. For large trees, a qualified arborist should do the cutting. I can help with access and cleanup. Call 0481 457271.

Will my insurance cover storm damage if I did not prepare?

Most policies cover storm damage, but insurers can reduce or deny claims if damage was caused or worsened by lack of maintenance. A roof that leaks because tiles were already loose may not be fully covered. Maintaining your property and documenting its condition strengthens any claim. I can provide a pre-storm assessment report with photos. Call 0481 457271.