Severe weather can turn things upside down in no time. For body corporates and real estate agents, there’s a lot to juggle—insurance claims, sorting repairs, and keeping tenants in the loop. It can get messy fast.
When getting things back on track, damage reporting plays a massive role. If you get this part right, claims run smoother, repairs get done properly, and everyone’s stress levels stay in check.
Why proper damage reporting matters
After a big weather event, you need to be onto damage reporting quickly. Insurers want clear proof of what’s happened, and if the reports don’t stack up, you can get stuck with unnecessary and painful back and forth.
An exhaustive damage report means:
- Claims get processed without all the back-and-forth
- You can prove what’s new damage and what’s been there a while
- Repairs get done properly the first time
If you’re managing multiple properties, a clear process saves a lot of time and hassle.
What you need to do after severe weather
1. Have a proper look—but keep safety first
As soon as it’s safe, get out and look around. But don’t rush—some damage isn’t obvious at first glance. Check:
- Roofs – look for missing tiles, impact damage, or sagging spots
- Leaks and water damage – ceilings, walls, and floors are your top spots
- Structural concerns – any cracks or dodgy-looking areas
- Electrical risks – water near power points is always a red flag
If things look dangerous, stay patient and wait for the experts.
2. Get everything on record
The more you document, the better your claim will hold up.
- Take good, clear photos and videos – from all angles
- Write up what you see – jot down dates, times, and descriptions
- Grab any weather reports – they’ll back up the claim
If flooding is involved, it pays to wait a few weeks before considering it done. Water damage can sneak up later, and insurers will want the full picture.
3. Call in a building consultant
An expert damage report is worth its weight in gold. A licensed building consultant will:
- Spell out the difference between storm damage and old wear and tear
- Pick up on any compliance issues
- Lay out exactly what needs fixing and how to do it properly
This makes it much easier to get insurers on board and avoid delays, especially in times when claims surge after a severe weather event.
4. Get the claim in—complete and clear
Insurance claims stall when reports are incomplete. To keep things moving:
- Submit the full package – reports, photos, videos, the lot
- Be upfront and clear – no fluffy descriptions
- Know the policy – what’s covered and what’s not
No insurer likes chasing extra details. The clearer you are, the quicker things get sorted.
5. Oversee repairs—don’t just assume it’s sorted
Repairs should meet proper standards, not just get the place looking nice again.
- Use licensed trades – a cheap fix now can be a big headache later
- Keep track of everything – photos, invoices, and reports
- Look for hidden issues – especially after water damage
After severe weather, some tenants or owners may be experiencing additional vulnerabilities. Damage reporting should consider these factors, ensuring clear communication and providing access to support services where needed, aligning with the General Insurance Code of Practice guidelines.
The job’s not done until you’re sure it’s safe and compliant.
Where things can go wrong
Even seasoned pros slip up. Here are a few traps to avoid:
- Leaving reports too late – Insurers have time limits. Miss them, and you’re out of luck.
- Mixing new damage with old issues – Insurers only pay for storm-related damage.
- Missing crucial details – If it’s not in the report, it doesn’t count.
- Cutting corners on repairs – If the fix doesn’t meet standards, you’ll hear about it later.
Cover the basics well, and you can skip a lot of stress.
What we’re seeing across the industry
There’s been a few common hiccups lately:
- Flood claims are taking longer: Water damage takes time to show. It’s worth holding off on final reports for a few weeks.
- Rushed inspections are causing disputes: Taking the time to get reports right upfront saves arguments later.
- Poor repair work is leading to compliance issues: Quick fixes often mean long-term problems.
Handling the hard times
When severe weather causes damage, the way you handle damage reporting makes all the difference. A well-documented claim means faster insurer approvals and proper repairs.
By leveraging Morse Building Consultancy’s expertise in damage reporting, disaster response, and compliance assessments, body corporates and real estate agents can ensure smooth claims processing and legally sound property management.
Contact us for a consultation.