Essential Spring Safety Checklist for Your New Zealand Home

Spring is not only the season for cleaning out closets and refreshing spaces; it’s also an ideal time to inspect and safeguard your home. With the potential for strong spring winds, heavy rainfall, and occasional flooding, this is the perfect season to tackle maintenance and prepare for New Zealand’s unique climate.

Check your insurance is up-to-date

Begin by reviewing your home and contents insurance policies to ensure they cover the latest risks. In New Zealand, we experience a variety of weather events, including sudden heavy rain, storms, and occasional flooding. As such, it’s worth checking that your policy is current and that you’re covered for these specific events.

• Double-check your contents insurance, as it protects belongings like electronics, furniture, and appliances from accidental damage or weather events.
• Take a moment to assess your coverage limits to ensure they still meet your needs. Many insurance providers offer online account management, which can make it easier to update details if your policy is set to auto-renew.
• Avoid costly surprises by keeping a reminder to regularly review and adjust coverage.

Inspect the roof and clear the gutters

Roof maintenance is essential for those sudden downpours, particularly in areas with high rainfall like the West Coast or Fiordland. Gutters can become blocked with leaves, branches, and debris, which can cause water to back up and damage your home’s roof or siding.

• Start by checking the roof from the ground; water stains on ceilings or mould inside may indicate a leak. Cleaning gutters and trimming overhanging branches will help prevent blockages.
• For a more thorough inspection, consider hiring a professional who can safely check for broken tiles, cracked flashings, or sagging beams.
• The cost of a roof inspection in New Zealand generally ranges between $200 and $400 but is a valuable investment for peace of mind and early problem detection.

Strengthen flood protection measures

Flooding is a frequent concern in parts of New Zealand, especially in low-lying areas and places like Hawke’s Bay, Canterbury, and Auckland. Taking preventive measures in spring can help reduce flood risks and protect your home in case of heavy rain.

• Start with landscaping that encourages water drainage, such as using gravel or porous materials around the foundation and directing rainwater away from the house.
• Keep an emergency plan in place that includes moving valuables to higher ground if flooding is forecasted. Creating storage space in attics or higher shelves can safeguard sentimental items and important documents.
• Review your insurance policy for flood coverage, as not all policies automatically include it, and take note of safe evacuation routes in case of a sudden flood emergency.

Prepare for high wind and storm events

As the weather gets warmer, tropical storms and cyclones start to develop which can bring high winds. Also, places like Wellington and Canterbury and known for getting strong gales throughout the year. These winds can damage roofs, knock over outdoor furniture, and cause other hazards around your home.

• Take the time to secure outdoor items such as trampolines, outdoor furniture, and potted plants, which can become projectiles in strong winds. Store items in a garage or shed if storms are forecasted.
• Inspect windows and doors for potential vulnerabilities, and consider installing storm shutters if you live in an area frequently affected by high winds. Proper sealing around windows and doors will also help minimise drafts and keep the interior warm during cool spring nights.
• Trim trees near the house, especially any branches that hang close to the roof or power lines. Falling branches during storms are a common cause of damage in New Zealand homes.

Prepare for earthquakes

New Zealand's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire makes earthquakes a possibility that all homeowners should be prepared for. While some measures may feel small, they can make a big difference in protecting your property and keeping your family safe.

• Use brackets and straps to anchor bookshelves, televisions, and appliances like water heaters, preventing them from toppling over during a quake.
• Assemble essentials like bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, extra batteries, and first aid supplies, storing them in a secure and accessible location.
• Check your home insurance for earthquake coverage, especially if you're in a high-risk area, and ensure everyone in the household knows how to shut off utilities like water, gas, and electricity to avoid hazards.

Download local weather and Civil Defence apps

Staying informed about weather and natural disaster alerts can make a real difference in being prepared for emergencies. Several apps provide real-time alerts for New Zealand’s specific hazards.

• The MetService app provides accurate weather forecasts and severe weather warnings, while Civil Defence Emergency Management offers alerts for floods, earthquakes, and other potential emergencies.
• Familiarise yourself with the Get Ready website, which offers detailed advice on preparing for natural disasters that could occur in New Zealand.
• Knowing what’s happening in your region can help you respond promptly, whether it’s relocating for flood risks or securing loose items before a high-wind event.

Back up important documents and photos

New Zealand’s varied climate means that, from North to South, homes can face risks from weather events and other hazards. Backing up digital copies of important documents is a smart move for any homeowner.

• Digitally back up personal documents, photos, and essential files on a cloud service, so they’re safe from physical damage and accessible anywhere.
• For extra security, consider a fire-safe and waterproof box to store items like passports, birth certificates, and small valuables. These can be purchased at hardware stores and offer protection in case of fire, flood, or other emergencies.
• A spring clean is a great time to scan old photos and documents, ensuring that even sentimental items have digital backups for safekeeping.
  
  

These tips also apply to rental properties. Proactive maintenance can prevent small problems from becoming costly issues and helps build a positive relationship with tenants.

Reach out to your LJ Hooker property manager, who can arrange necessary inspections and repairs, ensuring your property remains a safe and inviting place year-round.