How To Prepare Your Rental Home For A Storm

As we write this article, there is a deluge outside our office. The combination of rain and wind is reminiscent of the April 2015 super storm in which many parts of the Hunter received record rainfall.

Regardless of the weather outside your window, it's never a bad time to check your level of preparation should a severe storm appear on the horizon.

Preparing your home for a storm when you're renting

​1. Secure items away from wind

Severe storms often bring damaging wind which can lift outdoor furniture, trampolines and other loose items such as iron roofing. When a storm is forecast, take a look around your property to identify items like these and ensure they are securely stored away from the wind indoors, in a garage, or by securing them with weights or ties. 

2. Ensure gutters and drains are clean

Ensure your gutters and downpipes are clear of blockages. If you've seen water flowing over the side of your gutter when it's raining, rather than down the downpipe, it is likely you have a blockage which will need to be addressed. Rusting on the underside of metal gutters or bent braces holding a gutter in place are also indications that water has not been able to drain suitably. Left unchecked, gutters which don't drain smoothly can overflow and allow water to enter under the eaves and into the roof cavity. 

Also be sure to keep drains around your property clear to enable surface water to clear. Drainage grates are there for a purpose - never cover them up with potplants no matter how unsightly you think they are!

Tenants, if you notice issues with drainage in your rental property, contact your property manager to ensure maintenance is undertaken to prevent the issue escalating. It is your responsibility to ensure any maintenance or repairs required are brought to the property manager's attention promptly.

3. Trim trees and branches

As a tenant it is your responsibility to maintain trimming of any shrubs or bushes that grow during the tenancy at the property. More established trees or those which may have overhanging branches posing a threat to the property should not be dealt with by a tenant, but raised with your property manager for further investigation and/or action from a qualified (and insured) arborist or tree surgeon. 

For tips on planning your actions before a storm, during a storm, and after a storm, visit the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) storm preparation guide. 

For emergency help in a flood or storm, contact the SES on 132500.

If you are a Carnelian Property Management tenant and have a concern about the storm-readiness of a property you are renting, let us know via a rental maintenance request.