The Christmas Day storms caused wide spread water damage across Melbourne. Although no preventative action would have protected property from damage caused by the fierce storms, as property owners a maintenance program could substantially reduce the chances of water damage occurring.

According to Chubb Insurance Company of Australia Ltd, water damage is one of the most common causes of household insurance claims each year, often resulting in lengthy and costly repairs.

If you were fortunate enough not to have been affected by water damage from the Christmas Day storms – you were one of the lucky ones and NOW is the time to reduce the likelihood of a future water damage claim by following maintenance steps such as:

Outside

• Keep roof gutters and valleys clear of leaves and other debris

• Prune tree branches that overhang the roof

• Maintain the roof and have it periodically inspected

• Monitor roof penetrations around chimneys, skylights, vents and like for dislodgement and deterioration

• Have adjoining garden beds sloping away from the home

• Keep surface drainage inlets clear of debris