Be Cyclone Season Ready: A guide for Strata Communities

Cyclone season runs from 1 November to 30 April, although cyclones can occur outside these dates.

For strata communities in cyclone-prone areas, preparation shouldn’t start when a cyclone warning is issued. Taking practical steps throughout the year can help protect your property, keep residents safe and make recovery easier if a cyclone impacts your community.

Here are some practical steps to help your strata community prepare, protect and recover.

How to prepare your strata property for cyclone season

Good cyclone season preparation starts early, allowing time for inspections and any necessary repairs.

Regular maintenance is an integral part of preparation. Keep common property in good repair. Clear drains, gutters and downpipes, service stormwater pumps and backup power, trim trees and vegetation, and make sure loose outdoor items are secured.

Roof failure and wind-driven rain are major sources of cyclone damage. Be sure to inspect roofs, windows, doors, balconies and external equipment. Any structural concerns should be assessed by qualified professionals.

It’s also a good time to review your insurance cover. Make sure important documents, including your policy schedule, PDS and claims contacts are easy to access. Keep up-to-date photos of common property and assets in a secure location. Review the building sum insured and understand your policy’s excesses, exclusions and any emergency and catastrophe related cover.

Finally, have a simple Cyclone Readiness Plan. Identify who is responsible for key tasks, how you’ll communicate with residents and contractors, and who will lodge or coordinate an insurance claim. Set clear triggers for when the plan will be activated.

Need help to get your building cyclone season ready?

Download BCB’s Cyclone Season Readiness Fact Sheet which includes a cyclone preparation checklist, or use our Cyclone Season Readiness Poster as a quick reminder for committees and residents.

Download the Cyclone Season Readiness Fact Sheet

Download the Cyclone Season Readiness Poster

What do to do when a cyclone is approaching

When a cyclone is approaching, stay informed and act early.

Monitor Bureau of Meteorology warnings and information from your local council. Follow directions from emergency services and public authorities. Keep residents updated with clear information and instructions.

Secure loose outdoor items, clear drains and gutters, and close common-area doors, windows, gates and shutters. Work with relevant service contractors to prepare essential building services such as lifts, pumps and generators.

Most importantly, prioritise safety. Support residents who may need additional assistance and ensure they receive official evacuation or shelter information. Stop outdoor preparations if conditions become unsafe.

Keep an emergency pack with essential items such as keys, torches, batteries, a first aid kit, water and key contact details. Include printed copies of important insurance documents and your Cyclone Readiness Plan in case power or internet access is disrupted.

Residents should always follow official warnings, evacuation directions and local disaster information.

What to do after a cyclone

Once the cyclone has passed, safety comes first. Stay away from damaged areas or hazards until authorities or qualified professionals confirm they are safe. If lives or safety are at risk, contact emergency services.

When it is safe to do so:

Document the damage. Take photos before debris is removed or temporary repairs commence and keep records of damage, quotes, invoices and correspondence.
Contact BCB and let us know what has happened as soon as possible. Arrange reasonable emergency make-safe works to help prevent further damage, and keep all invoices and receipts.
Restore and repair. Work with relevant licensed contractors to safely restore essential services and complete repairs.
Review what happened. Capture any lessons that could help make your building more resilient and improve your response next time.

A little preparation can make a big difference

Cyclone readiness isn’t just something to think about when severe weather is on the way. Regular maintenance, a clear plan, reviewing your insurance and good communication can help your strata community respond when it matters.

BCB can help you understand and review your insurance cover, prepare for claims and support you through the insurance process after a cyclone. If your scheme is damaged, contact BCB as soon as possible.

Download our Cyclone Readiness Resources

For more practical tips, download BCB’s resources to help your strata committee and residents prepare.