Although October to April is when Australia typically experiences the most bushfires, heatwaves, floods and tropical cyclones, severe weather can occur at any time.
The world’s weather is changing. It seems to have more ‘energy’. Whether you believe the cause is man-made climate change or naturally occurring events, recent disasters have certainly felt more unnatural than natural.
Cyclones, hurricanes and typhoons are more ferocious.
Flooding from excessive rainfall and storms is more than just inundation – entire towns and villages are wiped out.
The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned of more frequent and severe weather events caused by rising global temperatures. This presents an ongoing challenge for strata owners as they try to ensure their properties are adequately prepared.
Regular maintenance really can help
Whether it’s spring, summer, autumn or winter, maintaining your property and keeping on top of the small jobs can help avoid any unexpected breakdowns or expensive repairs due to unnecessary neglect.
An effective way to do this is through a maintenance programme and regular property inspections to keep on top of pre-existing issues.
Every season brings challenges
Autumn – a time of cooler mornings and evenings
- Keep on top of leaves around your property to avoid slips.
- Clean gutters, downpipes and drainage systems to prevent blockages.
- Check heating appliances are operating properly and remove any dust from portable appliances that could be a fire hazard.
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors.
Winter – focus on jobs inside
- Repair damaged or loose roof tiles/sheets and screws.
- Look for damage or cracks on pipes caused by cold weather.
- Be vigilant for dampness around windows, skylights and ceilings. Even small cracks in walls or a roof can let in rainwater.
- Use the cooler months as an opportunity for pest treatment.
Spring – spend more time outdoors
- Inspect storage areas like basements and attics for any damp or air leaks.
- Service air conditioners and clean air vents to remove dust, debris and insects.
- Treat and repair any rotting woodwork.
- Test irrigation systems.
Summer – intense heat requires added protection
- Review safety equipment like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
- Clean gutters and maintain gardens – water regularly and prune large trees/hedges.
- Secure loose outdoor items, and boats or vehicles, ahead of any predicted storms.
We all have a role to play
To keep a property in good condition and ensure it remains a safe place to live, managing maintenance and repairs is critical.
While planning, budgeting and coordinating an ongoing maintenance program is generally looked after by a strata manager, owners and tenants have responsibilities too.
- Treat the property with respect to prevent unnecessary damage.
- Follow the by-laws – they’re there for everyone’s benefit.
- Report anything that needs repairing as soon as you see it.
