Climate Change - we can’t ignore it
Severe bushfires in one part of Australia, flooding in another at the same time... Climate change is a serious threat facing Australia today. Whatever the debate about climate change, there is little doubt that we are already seeing an increase in the frequency and severity of extreme weather-related events.
Exacerbating the potential of damage is urban and non-urban development in zones of escalating climate and weather hazards - often built to standards that fail to account for the increasing weather risks.
Floods and storms can be devastating for property and business owners. However, the extent of damage can often be significantly reduced with good planning and preventative measures.
Ensure that your buildings and roof structures are intact and don't leak
Ensure the roof, windows and doors are safely secured to the building wall structure
Prepare an emergency plan that you can activate at short notice in the event of a storm or flood warning
Check your buildings' surroundings. Monitor trees for overhanging branches and secure loose property in your yard that could blow away and cause damage
Put your business-critical equipment in an elevated location where possible
As you assess your flood or storm risk, ensure that you look at your insurance protection as well. Will a damage impact only your property, or will it also impact your business? How long are you likely to be out of business? Is your equipment or any stock at risk? Who will look after the removal of any debris?
It is important to know that insurance policies are not all the same in this regard, and some cover you better than others for flood events. Your insurance broker is the expert who can answer your questions and to ensure that you have the right protection for the particular risks you are exposed to.
'Copyright Zurich Financial Services Australia Ltd, 2010'
“This article provides a factual summary only of the product(s) we offer. It is not intended to be advice and you should not rely on it as a substitute for any form of advice”
