Home owners unprepared for high-risk holiday season
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Photo by Ivan S
As the summer season approaches, Australian property owners are being urged to prioritise home maintenance and security to avoid costly repairs and insurance claims. The latest Summer Risk Report from Allianz reveals a concerning trend: a significant number of households remain unprepared for the seasonal hazards that come with the end-of-year weather.
According to the report, 42 per cent of households have not yet begun to prepare for typical seasonal risks, such as increased fire hazards. This lack of preparation could lead to expensive repairs and sky-high insurance claims, particularly as outdoor activities and travel plans peak during the festive season.
The report highlights a worrying statistic: almost one in five home owners invest no time or money in maintaining their properties. Additionally, nearly a quarter of respondents cited financial constraints as the reason for their lack of investment in home upkeep. These findings suggest a widespread complacency or inability to address potential risks.
A significant portion of home owners, 42 per cent, believe their homes are already safe enough, while 22 per cent admit they would feel unprepared if an accident or mishap were to occur. This complacency is particularly concerning given the increased usage of barbecue (BBQ) appliances during summer months. Despite the popularity of outdoor cooking, only a quarter of Australians check for risks and faults before using their BBQs, according to Allianz. The cost of outdoor BBQ-related insurance claims can sometimes amount to tens of thousands of dollars.
Rebecca Cardamone, founder of Ace Property Agency, emphasised the importance of regular maintenance checks to prevent potential disasters. “The key to ensuring you’re keeping up to date with home maintenance is to create a regular schedule,” Cardamone advised. “These checks will then become part of your regular routine – allowing you to enjoy the holiday season without worry or concern.”
The Allianz report also highlights the increased vulnerability of homes during the summer, with 40 per cent of Australians travelling over the festive season. This travel surge corresponds with a rise in insurance claims, which amounted to $1.62 million last year over the two-week holiday period. Despite this, nearly half of home owners take active steps to secure their homes before travelling, and 41 per cent arrange for someone to check in on their property while they are away.
Luke Whenman, Allianz Australia’s chief claims officer, stressed the importance of taking simple precautions to protect homes during the holiday season. “Our homes are a hub of celebration and relaxation during summer, but they’re also vulnerable when left unprotected,” Whenman stated. “These small steps can make a big difference in ensuring your home is well-maintained, and you are able to enjoy the holiday season over the summer.”
The report underscores a crucial message for home owners: proactive maintenance and security measures are essential to safeguarding properties during the high-risk holiday season. As Australians prepare for summer festivities, experts urge them to take the necessary steps to ensure their homes are both safe and secure.
This article was first published on Smart Property Investment, a sister publication of Property Buzz.