Are You Ready for the Upcoming Storm Season on the Gold Coast?

Are You Ready for the Upcoming Storm Season on the Gold Coast?

Each year, the Gold Coast faces its share of wild weather - from heavy rainfall and flash flooding to powerful winds and tropical storms. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare our homes to handle what’s coming. As professional building inspectors, we see first-hand how much damage severe weather can cause - and how much of it could have been prevented with the right maintenance.

These practical steps, can help protect your property before the next storm arrives.

1️⃣ Roof Coverings, Flashings & Penetrations

Your roof is the first defence line — and the most common storm-related failure point.

Preparation checklist:

  • Inspect for cracked or lifted roof tiles, loose ridge capping or missing screws on metal sheets.

  • Ensure all roof penetrations (vents, skylights, antennas, solar mounts) are correctly flashed and sealed with suitable silicone.

  • Check that lead flashings are not deteriorating.

  • Inspect cracks to ridge caps where mortar is deteriorated.

2️⃣ Gutters, Valleys & Downpipes

Blocked or rusted gutters are responsible for ceiling leaks and excessive moisture build up surrounding the building.

Preparation checklist:

  • Remove debris and install leaf guards to reduce future blockages.

  • Confirm downpipes are connected to a functional stormwater system - not discharging near footings.

  • Replace corroded gutter brackets and ensure correct fall toward outlets/downpipes.

3️⃣ Roof Drainage & Overflow Design

Many properties lack adequate overflow provision.

Preparation checklist:

  • Ensure box gutters are clear from debris and sealed adequately, with overflows installed.

  • Inspect spreader pipes from the upper roof, to ensure water is dispersed correctly to the lower roof.

  • Clear stormwater surface drains and grates around the dwelling.

  • Install additional surface drains around the property

  • Inspect levels of surrounding pathways, ensuring they fall away from the building

4️⃣ External Walls & Cladding Seals

Driving rain can penetrate even small gaps around windows, doors and joints.

Preparation checklist:

  • Re-seal all wall penetrations (air-conditioner lines, taps, conduits, TV cables) with high-grade exterior silicone.

  • Check control-joint sealant between cladding panels for shrinkage or separation.

  • Repaint or re-render deteriorated surfaces to maintain waterproof integrity.

5️⃣ Windows & Doors

Wind-driven rain test every opening.

Preparation checklist:

  • Remove failed silicone and re-seal around window and door frames.

  • Check sills for correct fall outward; adjust if water pools against frames.

  • Service rollers, hinges and latches so openings close tightly.

  • Apply weather seals or draft stoppers to prevent water and wind intrusion.

6️⃣ Subfloor Drainage & Ventilation

Excess ground moisture and poor airflow encourage timber rot and termites.

Preparation checklist:

  • Confirm surface grading directs water away from the foundation.

  • Clean and unblock subfloor vents.

  • Avoid storing materials under the house.

  • Where persistent dampness occurs, install additional drainage

7️⃣ External Timber Structures & Fences

Decks, pergolas and retaining walls deteriorate quickly in constant moisture.

Preparation checklist:

  • Inspect post bases and handrail fixings for decay or looseness.

  • Apply sufficient coatings to exposed timbers annually.

  • Replace all rusted fixings with galvanised or stainless-steel fasteners.

    Recommendation: Engage a Building Inspector or Structural Engineer for a detailed review.

8️⃣ The Site & Surface Water Management

Water pooling around the building can undermine foundations.

Preparation checklist:

  • Keep garden beds, soil and mulch at least 75 mm below damp-course level/weep holes.

  • Install additional strip drains where necessary

  • Trim tree branches that overhang the roof and clear leaf litter from valleys.

  • Inspect signs of existing water damage, wood decay, water staining.

    Recommendation: Engage a Building Inspector or Structural Engineer for a detailed review.

9️⃣ Roof Void & Ceiling Cavity

Moisture and poor ventilation here often go unnoticed.

Preparation checklist:

  • Inspect for ceiling stains, damp insulation, mould or daylight through roof covering.

  • Ensure insulation isn’t blocking vents.

  • Remove stored items from the roof cavity.

🔟 Termite & Moisture Protection

After heavy rainfall, termite activity spikes due to elevated humidity.

Preparation checklist:

  • Ensure your termite management system is current and certified, inspect durable notice sticker within your meter box or kitchen cupboard.

  • Maintain a minimum 75 mm inspection zone between ground level and weep holes.

  • Avoid garden beds or stored timber against external walls.
    Recommendation: Engage a licensed Timber Pest Manager to review and maintain your termite plan.

👉 Book your inspection today and to help safeguard your property from the upcoming storm season.