When a storm comes through, it hits every property on your list at once. The phones light up, tenants want answers and owners want updates. The day goes a lot smoother if the boring prep was done in spring.
This is a pre-season checklist for property managers and landlords. Tick it off as you go, or print it for the team. It is general guidance, not legal advice. The Residential Tenancies Authority sets the rules on entry, repairs and who is responsible for what, so check with them if you are unsure.
Your ticks are saved on this device, so you can come back and finish it later.
Portfolio and priorities
Tenant communication
Access
Photos and records
Outside each property
Emergency contacts and plan
After the storm
Pre-season tenant message
Short and plain works best. Change the details in [brackets] and send it by text or email before the season starts.
Hi [tenant name], storm season is here and we want to make sure you're set. A few things that help: - If a storm is forecast, please bring in or tie down outdoor furniture, bins and anything loose, and take down shade sails if you can do it safely. - If you notice a leak, a blocked gutter or a damaged fence, let us know now rather than after the storm. - For emergency repairs, call [emergency contact and number]. For storm damage help, the SES is 132 500. If anyone is in danger, call 000. Thanks, [your name], [agency]
What to do on the day
Work from the damage log, highest risk first. Get photos before anything is moved. Make-safe comes before permanent repairs, and permanent repairs need a written quote with a clear scope that the owner can approve. Our after a storm guide covers the order in more detail, and it is worth sending to tenants too.
How we can help
We can be one point of contact for storm prep and repairs across your properties. Requests come to us, get scoped, and the quote gets put together and in front of you or the owner fast. The right licensed trade is lined up, and you get updates without having to chase. Start with one property that has been sitting in the maintenance queue and judge us on the follow-through.
Free to print and share with your team, owners or other agencies. Just credit Linc Point with a link back to this page.
Sources and further reading
General information only, shared from the sources below. It is not professional advice for your property. If something looks unsafe, stop and call a licensed professional, or 000 in an emergency.
- Residential Tenancies Authority (opens in a new tab)The rules on entry, repairs and who is responsible for what in a Queensland rental.
- Queensland SES SES assistance (opens in a new tab)What the SES can help with in a storm or flood, and how to call 132 500.
- Get Ready Queensland Protect your home (opens in a new tab)Roof, gutters and downpipes, branches, loose items and fittings to sort before the season.
- Bureau of Meteorology Warnings (opens in a new tab)Current severe weather and storm warnings.
- Electrical Safety Office Electrical safety during storms (opens in a new tab)Fallen powerlines, wet switchboards and getting checked before the power goes back on.
- Insurance Council of Australia (opens in a new tab)Help with home insurance and claims after a disaster.