Gold Coast residents are being urged to protect their homes ahead of what’s expected to be a stormy summer.
The fresh plea comes from NRMA, who says it’s not high enough on our to-do lists.
New research has found 67% of people are more likely to prioritise a clean home before they set off on holidays over taking steps to protect it from severe weather.
Just 45% of Aussies prioritise preparing their home, meaning majority are skipping critical measures such as clearing gutters, removing debris, and tying down loose outdoor items.
Luke Gallagher from NRMA says this is a concern given that summer is by far the most dangerous season for wild weather.
“An analysis of NRMA Insurance claims data2 over the past five years since the 2019-20 ‘Black Summer’ has confirmed that 42% of all wild weather claims have occurred during summer,” Mr Gallagher says
“NRMA insurance has received a claim due to extreme weather every 4 minutes and 39 seconds during summer for the past five years, which is a 60% increase on the other seasons in the year,
“A standout finding from our latest consumer research is that 11% of Australians have experienced returning from a holiday to find their home has been damaged by thunderstorms, hail, floods, wild winds or bushfire.”
To prepare for wild weather this summer, Gold Coasters are recommended to clear gutters, downpipes and drains, as well as secure loose items and clear debris from their property.
