As summer builds, so too does the risk of severe storms along the Sunshine Coast – and the message is simple: being prepared now means you have more control over the outcome later. 
For property owners on the Sunshine Coast – whether you are safeguarding a family home, an investment unit, or a commercial building – smart action today can prevent panic tomorrow. Your policy is your safety net, but only if it’s up to date.

Here’s a storm-ready checklist, for both residential and commercial properties:

1. Review your insurance cover
- Confirm your rebuild value (for homes) or replacement cost (for businesses) is realistic.
- Check your policy includes storm, hail, water ingress and business interruption (for commercial) cover.
- Note your excess, claim process and emergency contact info.
- Update your sums insured if you have added new fittings, equipment or renovations.

2. Check your property’s vulnerabilities
- Inspect your roof, gutters, downpipes and drainage – a fast storm can exploit weak links.
- Check your property for anything that could become a projectile during a storm.
- Trim overhanging branches and check trees near powerlines.
- Clean gutters and ensure outlets drain freely.

3. Prepare your emergency kit
- Have a torch/headlamp, batteries, first-aid kit, bottled water and power-pack.
- Photograph and document your property, contents, equipment (for commercial or strata) – in case of damage, this speeds up your claim.
- Save your insurer’s 24/7 emergency line (that’s us, we are here for you) and local emergency services: Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) and Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) warnings.

4. When the storm is approaching
- Park vehicles undercover or on high ground.
- Secure or store loose outdoor items, trampolines, furniture, signage – anything that could become a projectile. 
- Close and lock all windows and doors; ensure blinds or curtains are drawn.
- Stay inside during the peak, away from windows and glass.
- Unplug non-essential electronics and turn off main utilities if advised.

5. After the storm passes
- Only enter your property when it’s safe and authorised by emergency services.
- Take photos/videos of damage before clean-up.
- Call your insurer immediately to notify and start the claim process.
- Keep all receipts for temporary repairs, cleaning or accommodation.
- Watch for scams – unscrupulous contractors may knock on your door offering quick repairs. Always check credentials and talk to your insurer first.

We are local, on-call and committed to supporting homeowners and businesses across the Sunshine Coast this storm season.

Let’s face the weather together – with the right insurance.

t: 07 5345 5414          |             e: insure@io2.com.au            |       www.io2.com.au