Decoding structural building reports after a storm: what insurers and body corporates need to look for

building reports

Storms can wreak havoc on buildings, leaving insurers and body corporates with the complex task of assessing structural integrity, organising repairs, and managing claims. In Australia, these challenges are compounded by rising insurance premiums and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. According to the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), one in twelve properties is at risk of flooding, while more than five million homes are vulnerable to bushfires. As insurance costs rise, accurate building reports become a critical tool in effective storm recovery.

This article explores the role of structural building reports, common storm-related issues they identify, and how to identify actionable insights within them.

What are structural building reports, and why are they important?

Structural building reports are professional assessments of a building’s condition, focusing on identifying damage and ensuring structural integrity. After a storm, these reports are essential for insurers and body corporates to establish liability, prioritise repairs, and streamline claims processing.

Understanding these reports can mean the difference between timely, effective remediation and costly delays. Working with experienced building consultants ensures comprehensive reports that detail both visible and hidden damage, supporting informed decision-making in the aftermath of severe weather.

Common storm-related structural issues and how to identify them

Storms often cause specific types of structural damage that need to be carefully documented in building reports. These include:

  • Roof damage: High winds, hail, and heavy rain can damage roofs, leading to water ingress or weakened trusses. Indicators such as sagging, broken tiles, or visible gaps often signal structural risks that require immediate attention.
  • Foundation shifts: Soil movement caused by heavy rainfall or flooding can lead to cracks in foundations or uneven settling. Building reports will detail cracking patterns, sloping floors, or other signs of differential movement that suggest serious structural concerns.
  • Water damage: Persistent leaks, rotting timber, or mould growth can result from poor drainage or stormwater flooding. Reports highlight areas of moisture intrusion, decay, or compromised load-bearing elements.
  • Wind stress damage: High winds can misalign structural frames, bend fixtures, or break seals. Reports will typically document warped window frames, displaced building components, or other indicators of wind-related stress.

These issues compromise structural integrity and can drive up insurance claims and premiums. For example, the Australian home insurance market experienced an 8.2% premium increase in a single quarter due to storm-related events. Early identification and mitigation of structural damage through detailed reports are essential for managing costs effectively.

What to look for in a post-storm building report

When reviewing a building report, insurers and body corporates should focus on the following:

  • Clear, evidence-based findings: Your report should specify the type and extent of damage, supported by photos, diagrams, or thermal imaging, to provide a clear understanding of the issues.
  • Actionable recommendations: Look for repair priorities, timelines, and preventive measures that address immediate issues and build long-term resilience.
  • Compliance insights: Reports should flag any breaches of building codes or safety standards to guide repairs and ensure regulatory adherence.

Understanding exclusions and limits is equally important, given the complexities of insurance policies. Reviewing detailed building reports allows you to align repair efforts with policy requirements, streamlining claims processing.

Proactive strategies for insurers and body corporates

The ICA advocates for resilience measures such as flood levees and home construction upgrades to reduce the risks and costs associated with storm damage. Insurers and body corporates can complement these efforts by:

  • Conducting pre-storm inspections: Establish a baseline for the building’s condition to identify vulnerabilities and mitigate damage before a storm hits.
  • Investing in preventative maintenance: Strengthen roofs, gutters, and drainage systems to better withstand extreme weather.
  • Partner with experts: Engage building consultants for ongoing support, from inspections to post-storm assessments, ensuring you’re prepared to act when disaster strikes.

Decoding reports with confidence

Australia’s growing exposure to extreme weather makes understanding building reports more important than ever. For insurers and body corporates, these reports are essential for managing costs, protecting property, and ensuring compliance.

Morse Building Consultancy has the expertise to assess storm damage comprehensively, decode building reports effectively, and confidently advise you on the next steps.

Contact us today.