When it comes to evaluating the impact and damage of an earthquake, accurate and in-depth reports are essential. As an independent building and engineering consultancy, Morse Building Consultancy (MBC), understands the critical role we play in supporting insurers, loss assessors and organisations within the broader insurance industry.
We have extensive experience in providing accurate and comprehensive reports on damage caused by natural disasters. In this article, we delve into the 3.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Melbourne at 11.40pm 28 May and look at its impact, the importance of timely reporting and MBC’s role in assisting.
The Melbourne earthquake
Yesterday, at approximately 11.40pm Sunday 28 May 2023, the Melbourne suburb of Sunbury experienced a magnitude 3.8 earthquake, causing vibrations that were felt throughout the area. Despite its relatively modest intensity, the seismic event was noteworthy due to its proximity to Melbourne and the impacts felt in the city’s central areas. While no significant damage to buildings has been reported, according to seismologists, this is the most significant earthquake Melbourne Metro has experience in the last 100 years.
Although Melbourne was rattled by a 5.9 magnitude earthquake in September 2021, its epicentre was approximately 130 kilometres east of Melbourne.
Melbourne Earthquake key points:
- The earthquake occurred at approximately 11:40pm on Sunday, lasting only a few seconds. However, even in its brevity, it managed to leave an impact.
- Many central Melbourne residents reported feeling the tremors, despite the epicentre being located in Sunbury approximately 40 kilometres northwest of the city.
- The quake had a depth of three kilometres, which contributed to its widespread impact across the region.
- The earthquake prompted a response from the community, with over 20,000 Sunbury residents reporting their experience to Geoscience Australia by 1.30am.
The importance of prompt reporting in the event of an earthquake
In the aftermath of an earthquake, insurers, loss assessors, homeowners, business owners and other organisations within the broader insurance industry require accurate and timely reports to assess the extent of any damage.
Prompt and independent reporting enables the affected parties to initiate the necessary actions, such as claims processing, restorations, and repairs, efficiently. Morse Building Consultancy has a wealth of experience providing a swift response and detailed assessments in the wake of natural disasters, including earthquakes.
Reporting and scope of works of earthquake damage
Our team of licensed building consultants and registered engineering consultants are experienced in causation reporting and scope of works for earthquake damage. One of the primary objectives of earthquake damage reports is to assess the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure. Accurate and independent reports provide a detailed analysis of damage and outlines the extent to which a structure has been affected. This information enables insurers and other stakeholders to determine the required repairs and estimate the associated costs.
How Morse Building Consultancy ensure accuracy in the aftermath of an earthquake
As a trusted building and engineering consultancy, MBC employs a meticulous and professional approach to deliver accurate earthquake damage reports. Here’s how we ensure the reliability of our assessments:
Expertise and Experience: Our team of professional, qualified, licensed building consultants and registered engineering consultants have extensive experience in assessing earthquake damage. With their in-depth knowledge and expertise, they meticulously evaluate various aspects of structural integrity, ensuring accurate and reliable findings.
Thorough Inspections: We conduct thorough on-site inspections, carefully examining all areas that may have sustained damage during the earthquake. Our comprehensive approach allows us to identify signs of structural compromise or vulnerabilities.
As an independent building consultancy, we understand the importance of our role in assessing and reporting on such seismic events. Through our expertise in providing support in the aftermath of CAT events and other natural disasters, we are ready to assist insurers, loss assessors, and other organisations in the insurance industry by delivering impartial, independent, and in-depth expert reports.