Stay clear of the damaged area.
Do not stand beneath sagging plaster, puncture a bulging ceiling or enter a damaged roof space. Keep away from water-affected lights, switches and appliances. Follow emergency-service instructions and call 000 for immediate danger or injury.
Explain whether water is still entering, whether material has fallen and which rooms are affected. Do not climb onto a roof or approach unstable material to obtain a better photo.
Separate weatherproofing from restoration.
The roof, flashing, drainage or another building detail may need a suitably qualified contractor. Tell us whether temporary protection or source repairs have already been arranged.
Extraction and drying address water that has entered the building. They do not replace the source repair. Ongoing rain entry can affect the timing and scope of restoration, so keep the people managing each part informed.
Consider the whole water path.
A stain on one ceiling may be only the visible part of the incident. Insulation, ceiling lining, walls and floor coverings below can need assessment. Explain any rooms or levels where the water has appeared.
Stormwater and floodwater can carry contamination. Material-retention and cleaning decisions need to consider the source and condition, rather than assume that every carpet or lining can simply be dried.
Plan the repair after the damage is understood.
Ask what needs to be made safe, removed, extracted or checked before the drying stage. Reinstating a ceiling or repainting a stain should follow the relevant source, material and drying decisions.
Keep the incident timeline and safe records of the damage. Confirm the suburb, access and current availability with the team; weather conditions and the nature of the incident can affect what can be arranged.
Frequently asked questions
Should I put a hole in a water-filled ceiling?
No. Keep clear and seek the appropriate professional help. Standing beneath or disturbing damaged plaster can expose you to collapse and electrical hazards.
Can restoration start if rain is still entering?
Explain the current source and safety situation. The appropriate sequence depends on assessment and coordination with whoever is addressing the entry point.
Is storm damage always covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the policy and incident. Contact the insurer about its requirements; the website or restoration scope cannot decide cover.
Find local information.
Explore storm water damage enquiries by area. Confirm the available service and attendance directly with the team.