After the 2025 NSW and QLD floods, insurers, loss adjusters, brokers, strata managers, real estate managers and commercial owners need a defensible disaster assessment that separates event damage from pre-existing defects, identifies safety risks and sets out compliant reinstatement. Clear, evidence-based reporting reduces uncertainty, supports fair claim decisions and helps buildings return to service safely.
What it is a Disaster Assessment and when does it apply
A disaster assessment is an independent, structured review of a property after storms or floods. It combines a site inspection, material testing where required, analysis and a written opinion that explains causation, risk and the scope of remedial works. It applies when floodwater, hydrostatic pressure, scouring or wind actions may have affected structural performance, weatherproofing, hygiene or building services.
In practice, our consultants examine water paths, depth lines and debris patterns, then check slabs, footings and retaining walls for erosion or movement. Roofs and facades are reviewed for uplift, impact and water ingress. We deliver site investigation services that include moisture mapping, cavity inspection, verification of drying targets and coordination with licensed trades for electrical and hydraulic safety checks. Where structural integrity is in question, our registered engineers provide a structural engineer report that is integrated with our consultant and surveyor findings into one coordinated outcome.
How insurers use expert evidence
Insurers rely on three things. First, clear causation that distinguishes storm or flood impact from deterioration and maintenance issues. Second, a quantified scope that supports settlement, so a builder’s report for insurance claim sets out make-safe, strip-out limits, drying methodology, contamination control and reinstatement quantities. Third, defensibility, with references to the National Construction Code and relevant Australian Standards, plus transparent assumptions and limitations. MBC writes reports for decision-making, so adjusters can accept, decline or apportion liability on a consistent basis.
Compliance and the NCC
All reinstatement advice must align with the National Construction Code, which sets minimum performance requirements for building work across Australia. Where wind damage is evident, assessments consider wind region and pressure zones. Where saturated ground or erosion is present, footing and slab behaviour is considered against the Australia Standards.
Resilient reinstatement can reduce future losses, and both NSW and QLD provide Flood Resilient Buildings Design Guide to provides flood resilient building guidance for rebuilds and new build homes.
How a disaster assessment typically unfolds
Once safe access is confirmed, our consultant attends to determine causation, safety and compliant reinstatement. The visit begins with a make-safe review and a measured walk-through to document flood depth lines, debris patterns and water entry points. Moisture readings are taken in masonry, timber and floor finishes, and cavities are inspected where safe to verify wetting and contamination risk.
If indicators of movement or distress are present, such as cracking or rotation in footings, slabs or retaining walls, our in-house registered engineers assess stability, temporary works needs and repair strategy, then issue a structural engineer report that informs the combined outcome. Roof and facade elements are checked for tie-down, flashings and sarking continuity, where relevant, footing performance is reviewed all with reference to standards and site conditions.
The builders report for insurance claim then sets out strip-out limits, drying targets and verification steps, including when independent hygienist input may be required for contamination or mould risk. Proposed reinstatement is aligned to the NCC performance requirements and the appropriate Deemed-to-Satisfy provisions, with any performance solutions documented clearly. Where owners seek betterment for resilience, options are outlined in line with NSW and QLD guidance, and kept separate from claimable reinstatement.
Why partner with Morse Building Consultancy
MBC is independent and operates nationally with a coordinated surge capability. Our licensed building consultants, surveyors and registered engineers deliver integrated opinions that stand up to scrutiny. Our building reports and scopes are clear, measurable and aligned to the NCC and Australian Standards. Our approach helps adjusters decide quickly and gives builders the information needed to price and deliver compliant works.
A robust disaster assessment protects safety, supports sound claim decisions and ensures compliant reinstatement. If you need rapid, independent help across NSW, QLD or any part of Australia, please contact us for immediate triage.
Andrew Morse, Managing Director, Licensed Builder
Andrew is a trade-qualified, licensed builder with 37+ years in construction and insurance work. He leads a national team of licensed building consultants, surveyors and registered engineers, delivering independent, insurer-grade building reports. MBC operates across every Australian state and territory and is independent of builders and insurers.