Severe storms in Australia are hitting harder and more often, leaving homeowners and insurers with hefty bills.
The latest Insurance Catastrophe Resilience Report (2023-24) reveals that insured losses from extreme weather have tripled in the past 30 years. In the last five years alone, these losses made up 0.7% of Australia’s GDP—compared to just 0.2% between 1995 and 2000.
Insurance companies are now shelling out around $4.5 billion a year for weather-related claims, more than double the $2.1 billion average of previous decades. With storm damage becoming an expensive reality, homeowners need to be extra careful when choosing contractors for repairs.
Acting fast is crucial, but rushing the decision could mean shoddy repairs, safety hazards, and even more costs down the track.
Signs Your Home Needs Post-Storm Repairs
Once the storm passes, it’s time to check your home for damage—before small problems turn into costly repairs. Look out for leaks, missing or cracked roof tiles, damaged gutters, and weakened structures. Water stains on your ceiling or walls, piles of debris, and cracks in walls or foundations are also telltale warning signs.
Take a walk around your home and inspect the exterior. Loose or fallen roofing materials can let water seep in, leading to bigger issues down the track.
Inside, keep an eye out for peeling paint or unexpected damp patches—these often signal hidden leaks. Ignoring these signs can result in mould growth, structural damage, and skyrocketing repair costs.
Don’t forget to check outdoor areas, too. Sheds, fences, and pergolas might have taken a hit from strong winds or flying debris. Fallen trees and branches near your home should be cleared safely to avoid further damage.
The sooner you spot and fix storm damage, the better. Quick action can prevent small issues from becoming major headaches—keeping your home safe and sound.
What to Look for in a Reliable Contractor
When it comes to storm damage repairs, choosing the right contractor can make all the difference. A reliable professional will have the proper licenses and insurance, ensuring they meet Australian regulations. Industry certifications, like membership in the Master Builders Association, are also a good sign of credibility and expertise.
Experience matters, too. A contractor who knows local building codes and understands Australia’s unique weather conditions will be better equipped to provide lasting solutions. Transparency is just as important—trustworthy contractors communicate clearly, provide detailed written quotes, and set realistic project timelines so you know exactly what to expect.
Want proof of quality? Check their portfolio and customer reviews. A strong track record of successful projects speaks volumes. Also, look for contractors who offer warranties on their work—this extra layer of assurance means they stand by the quality of their repairs.
It’s also worth choosing a contractor with strong supplier connections. This ensures they can source high-quality materials at competitive prices and speed up repairs, especially during storm season when demand is high.
Finally, safety should never be overlooked. A responsible contractor follows Work Health and Safety (WHS) guidelines to protect their team—and your home—throughout the repair process.
Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor
Hiring the right contractor for your roof repairs can save you time, money, and headaches. Before signing anything, ask these essential questions:
- Are you licensed and insured? Make sure they have the right credentials and coverage, so you’re not left liable if something goes wrong.
- How much experience do you have with storm damage repairs? You want someone who knows the ins and outs of post-storm restorations—not just general renovations.
- Can you provide a detailed written quote and contract? A clear breakdown of costs and work scope helps prevent unexpected expenses.
- Do you offer warranties on materials and workmanship? A solid guarantee shows they stand by their work.
- How do you handle unexpected issues during repairs? Their answer should reveal their ability to adapt and solve problems efficiently.
- Can you share references from past customers? Speaking to previous clients is one of the best ways to gauge their reliability.
You should also ask about the estimated repair timeline—delays can be frustrating and expensive. If council permits are required, check whether the contractor will handle that process for you.
Be wary of anyone who dodges these questions, gives vague answers, or pressures you into signing on the spot. And always get multiple quotes before making your final choice—it’s the best way to compare pricing, service, and overall professionalism.
How to Avoid Storm Repair Scams and Dodgy Operators
Storm damage brings enough stress without having to deal with scammers. Unfortunately, unlicensed operators often take advantage of homeowners in urgent need of repairs.
Watch out for door-to-door salespeople offering "quick fixes" at suspiciously low prices. Many disappear after taking payment, leaving behind shoddy or incomplete work.
To protect yourself:
- Check their license – Use official government databases to verify their credentials.
- Research their reputation – Read customer reviews and confirm their business legitimacy through the Australian Business Register.
- Get everything in writing – Avoid verbal agreements. A reliable contractor will provide a detailed contract outlining costs, work scope, and warranties.
One of the biggest red flags? Contractors asking for large upfront payments before work begins. Trustworthy professionals usually offer staged payment plans tied to project milestones. Be wary of anyone insisting on full payment upfront or only accepting cash.
Finally, check if the contractor has a physical business address. Fly-by-night operators often use temporary contact details, which vanish once the job is done.
A little due diligence goes a long way in avoiding scams and ensuring your repairs are done right the first time.
How Insurance Can Help with Post-Storm Repairs
Dealing with storm damage is stressful, but knowing what your insurance covers can make the process a whole lot easier. While most policies include structural repairs, coverage limits and exclusions can vary, so reviewing your policy now can save you from costly surprises later.
If a storm hits, take plenty of photos of the damage and notify your insurer as soon as possible. They may need to assess the situation before repairs can begin. Working with a contractor who understands the insurance process can also help speed things up.
Experienced contractors know how to provide insurer-approved reports and quotes, reducing the risk of disputes or delays. Having a professional on your side ensures you get the maximum payout you’re entitled to for necessary repairs.
Some policies also cover emergency repairs to prevent further damage. Understanding what’s included in your plan means you can act quickly without paying more out of pocket than you need to. And don’t forget—keep receipts for any temporary fixes, as your insurer may reimburse those costs.
Why Hiring a Local Contractor is a Smart Choice
When it comes to storm damage repairs, working with a local contractor has some big advantages. They understand the local climate and the types of damage storms typically cause, meaning they can offer repair solutions tailored to your area’s specific needs.
One major benefit is faster response times. Local contractors can get to your property sooner, helping prevent further damage and costly delays. They also know Australian building codes inside and out, so you can trust that all repairs will meet legal standards.
Reputation matters, and established local businesses have more at stake. They rely on word-of-mouth and repeat customers, which means they’re more likely to take pride in their work and provide ongoing support long after the job is done.
Another big plus? Strong supplier relationships. Local contractors often have trusted connections with nearby suppliers, so they can secure materials quickly—especially crucial when demand spikes after a major storm.
And let’s not forget the impact of community. Supporting a local business keeps money in your area, helping your local economy recover and thrive after severe weather events.
Reliable Roof Repairs with A.I Guttering and Roofing
After a storm, your roof needs expert care—and that’s exactly what we provide at A.I Guttering and Roofing. With years of experience tackling storm damage across Australia, we deliver high-quality repairs that stand the test of time.
Our licensed and insured team knows how to handle storm-related damage, big or small. Plus, with transparent pricing and detailed written quotes, you’ll always know exactly what to expect—no surprises.
We believe in exceptional customer service, keeping you informed every step of the way. Our thorough inspections go beyond surface-level fixes, identifying hidden damage to ensure your roof is fully restored and protected against future storms.
Don’t wait until a small issue turns into a costly repair. Get in touch with A.I Guttering and Roofing todayfor expert, reliable roof repairs you can trust.
