Storm readiness for your roof: pre-season inspection checklist

We know you want clear steps to protect your home before severe weather. We outline a quick pre-season inspection so you can spot risks early and reduce emergency repairs when heavy wind and rain arrive.

Our approach starts with a simple visual check from the ground, moves to targeted fixes for flashing, seals and drainage, and ends with prioritised repairs so critical issues are done in time.

We highlight why structure, materials and ventilation matter, and when to call professionals. OnCall Emergency Plumbers in Melbourne are available 24/7 on 1800 571 216 for urgent leaks or pipe failures exposed by heavy rain.

Follow this guide to give your roof a stronger first line of defence and secure peace of mind before the storm season begins.

Key Takeaways

Carry out a quick visual inspection from the ground to spot obvious defects.
Check flashings, seals and ventilation to reduce leak risk during heavy rain.
Clear gutters and debris to prevent overflow into eaves and ceilings.
Know when to call professionals—we respond 24/7 for urgent plumbing leaks.
Allow enough time before peak season to assess, quote and complete critical work.

Assessing your roof before storm season in Australia

Before the season changes, we carry out a focused roof inspection to find weaknesses that could lead to water or structural damage.

What we look for outside: tiles, metal sheets, flashings and seals

We start with a ground-up visual sweep to safely check tiles and metal roofing for cracks, lift or missing elements.

Our exterior checks target cracked tiles, loose ridge capping, dented metal sheets, corroded fasteners and compromised flashings at valleys, skylights and penetrations.

Preferred flashing materials include lead, copper or stainless steel for long-term durability.

What we check inside: ceilings, roof space and signs of leaks

Inside, we look signs such as water stains, damp insulation, mould or daylight gaps that indicate active leaks.

We assess ventilation performance — ridge, soffit and gable vents — to stop moisture build-up that weakens roofing systems.

We document issues by area with photos and notes, then prioritise urgent make-safe work.
If plumbing-related leaks or saturated ceilings are found, we coordinate with OnCall Emergency Plumbers 24/7 on 1800 571 216 for containment and repairs.

Area	Common damage	Priority
Tiles & capping	Cracks, slips, loose capping	High
Metal sheets	Lifted laps, dents, loose fasteners	High
Flashings & seals	Corrosion, gaps at penetrations	Urgent

Pre-season checklist to secure your roof against heavy rain and high winds

A short pre-season tune-up reduces the chance of leaks and costly repairs when heavy rain and strong winds arrive.

Clear gutters and downpipes for proper drainage in severe weather

Clean and flush gutters so water runs freely during heavy downpours. Hose-test downpipes to confirm flow away from foundations.

Blocked sumps or sagging gutters can force water under flashings and into ceilings. Note locations and photograph any problem areas.

Trim overhanging branches and remove debris to protect vulnerable areas

Cut back branches that overhang the eaves. Falling limbs cause impact damage and abrasion to tiles and metal sheeting.

Clear leaves and organic debris from valleys and trays. Built-up debris traps moisture and accelerates wear.

Tighten fixings and inspect for hail or wind-lift

Check and retighten screws on metal sheets, ridge capping and anchors to resist wind-lift in high winds.

Look for hail dents, slipped tiles or wind-lift lines so early inspection flags a damaged roof before leaks start.

Secure rooftop equipment and follow safe access rules

Fasten antennas, solar gear and satellite dishes. Remove loose yard items that could become projectiles in gusts.

Stay off the roof in hazardous conditions. If pitch, fragility or safety is an issue, book licensed pros for inspection and repairs.

Document findings with photos by area and keep a simple log of dates and actions.
If you find active leaks or drainage failures, we arrange containment and call OnCall Emergency Plumbers on 1800 571 216 for 24/7 support while roofing repairs are arranged.

Materials and design upgrades that boost storm protection

Small design changes can greatly increase a home’s resistance to uplift and water ingress. We recommend durable, brand-backed components and work with trusted suppliers for long-term value.

Metal roofing and concrete or terracotta tiles for Aussie conditions

Corrugated galvanised steel is non-combustible, corrosion resistant and long lived. Properly fixed metal roofing offers excellent uplift resistance and longevity.

Concrete and terracotta tiles resist large hail and cyclonic winds when battening and support are correct.

Quality flashings, waterproof membranes and ventilation for resilience

Premium flashings (lead, copper, stainless) and a secondary waterproof membrane protect joints and penetrations. Good ventilation—ridge, soffit and gable—keeps insulation dry and prevents hidden decay.

Bracing, hurricane straps and wind ratings: building a secure structure

Wind classifications (N1–N3) guide specification. Adding bracing and cyclone-rated straps increases uplift capacity and reduces storm damage.

Use corrosion-resistant fasteners and compatible metals to avoid galvanic reaction.
Refix cappings with cyclone-rated screws and replace corroded flashings.
Sequence upgrades to minimise disruption and maintain wet-weather readiness.

For any leak-related plumbing risks during upgrades, OnCall Emergency Plumbers are available 24/7 on 1800 571 216 to make-safes and fix leaks promptly, giving you peace mind.

If severe weather hits: leaks, water ingress and the right time to call OnCall Emergency Plumbers

When extreme cells move through your area, quick, safe actions stop small leaks becoming major damage.

During heavy rain or high winds stay inside and away from windows. If a ceiling bulges with water, turn off power to the area and relieve pressure with a small controlled hole. Capture water in containers and protect belongings.

After the system passes, from the ground check rooflines for missing tiles, lifted metal sheets, displaced capping and fresh stains on ceilings. Clear light debris only when safe.

When to call us: if leaks continue, a damaged roof shows ongoing ingress, or plumbing faults (burst pipes, blocked drains) appear. We provide rapid containment, quality materials and clear documentation to support insurance and claims.

We triage repairs to stop water spread and plan drying and dehumidification.
We liaise with insurers, supply photos and scope notes to help claims.
For urgent assistance call OnCall Emergency Plumbers 24/7 on 1800 571 216 or contact a local roof plumber Rockbank.

Prompt, professional action reduces secondary damage and restores peace mind.

Conclusion

A simple seasonal check of fixings, flashings and drainage keeps roofing in good order and limits water entry when heavy weather comes.

Plan an inspection, tackle priority defects, and schedule upgrades—metal options, quality tiles and correct ventilation all reduce damage risk. Add bracing and straps where needed to strengthen the structure against strong winds.

Keep a clear maintenance log and look signs of distress after each event. Quick post-event checks stop problems growing and help with insurance claims.

When leaks or plumbing faults appear, we arrange prompt containment and repairs. For emergency callouts, contact our local team—see our emergency plumber Boronia page for 24/7 support and fast, documented service.

FAQ

What should we include in a pre-season inspection checklist for our roof?

We start with an external walkaround to check tiles, metal sheets, flashings and seals for loose or damaged sections. Inside, we inspect ceilings and the roof space for damp spots, mould or active leaks. We also note gutter condition, downpipes, nearby trees and any rooftop equipment that could come loose in high winds. A concise checklist helps us prioritise repairs before heavy rain and strong winds arrive.

How often should we assess our roof before severe weather in Australia?

We recommend a thorough inspection at least twice a year — ideally before the wet and windy season — and after any significant weather event such as hail or a cyclone. Regular checks reduce the risk of hidden damage becoming costly water ingress or structural issues.

What external signs indicate potential problems with tiles, metal sheeting or flashings?

Look for cracked, slipped or missing tiles, lifted metal panels, loose ridge capping and gaps at flashings. Corrosion around fasteners, split sealant and areas with accumulated debris also indicate vulnerability. Early detection helps prevent leaks and wind uplift.

What internal warning signs should we watch for inside ceilings and roof spaces?

Staining on ceilings, peeling paint, damp insulation, musty smells and visible mould point to water ingress. In the roof space, wet insulation, drips or light passing through indicate failed underlay or damaged coverings. These signs mean we should act quickly to locate and repair the source.

How do we clear gutters and downpipes effectively before heavy rain?

We remove leaves, seed pods and debris by hand or with a blower, then flush downpipes with water to ensure free flow. Check for sags, loose brackets and blockages at junctions. Well-maintained drainage prevents overflow against eaves and walls during intense rain.

When should we trim overhanging branches and remove debris around the property?

We trim branches that overhang the roof or gutters well before the storm season to reduce impact damage and leaf build-up. Debris on the roof and in valleys should be cleared regularly, especially after windy periods, to maintain proper water runoff and reduce fire and leak risk.

What steps do we take to tighten fixings on metal roofs and ridge capping?

We inspect fasteners for corrosion or looseness, replace damaged screws with appropriate sealed washers and re-seat ridge capping with corrosion-resistant fixings. Ensuring correct torque and sealant at penetrations lowers the chance of wind uplift and water entry.

How can we recognise past hail impacts and wind-lift indicators?

Hail usually leaves dents or pitting on metal sheets and broken or shattered tiles. Wind lift shows as lifted or curled edges, cracked mortar under ridge capping or displaced flashings. We document these signs to prioritise repairs or claims.

What rooftop equipment should we secure and how?

We secure solar panels, antennas, satellite dishes and air-conditioning units using manufacturer-recommended brackets and additional straps where necessary. Loose items such as pots, ladders and timber should be removed from the roof and tied down around the property to prevent them becoming projectiles in high winds.

When is it safer to stay off the roof and call professionals?

If the roof is steep, wet, icy, heavily damaged or has electrical hazards nearby, we avoid going up and call licensed roofers. Also engage pros for structural repairs, complex flashing work, replacement of large sections and when safety equipment or harnesses are required.

What material upgrades improve resilience to heavy rain and high winds in Australian conditions?

Durable options include Colorbond or other quality metal roofing and well-installed concrete or terracotta tiles. Upgrading to high-quality flashings, waterproof membranes and ensuring adequate ventilation also enhances performance in extreme weather.

How do bracing, hurricane straps and wind ratings help protect the roof structure?

Bracing and hurricane straps tie roof timbers to the wall plate and foundation, reducing uplift during strong winds. Choosing products with appropriate wind ratings for our local area ensures the whole system — covering, fixings and framing — works together to resist severe weather loads.

When should we call OnCall Emergency Plumbers for leaks or water ingress after severe weather?

We call OnCall Emergency Plumbers immediately when we detect active leaks, significant ceiling sagging, contaminated water entry or when quick temporary repairs are needed to prevent further interior damage. Their rapid response helps protect our property until permanent roofing repairs are arranged.