Introduction
In recent years, Brisbane has been hit by an increasing number of severe weather events, from major floods to destructive storms and, most recently, Cyclone Alfred—the first cyclone to make landfall in Southeast Queensland in approximately 75 years. Events once considered “once-in-a-century” floods have now occurred multiple times in the same decade.
With this surge in extreme weather, the impact on property damage and home insurance costs has been significant. Insurance premiums have skyrocketed, and many homeowners are finding it harder to secure coverage, particularly in flood-prone areas. As Brisbane residents brace for the next major event, home preparation has never been more crucial.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The rising frequency of severe weather in Brisbane
- The cost of damages and the impact on home insurance
- 10 essential steps to protect your home from extreme weather
The Rising Frequency of Extreme Weather in Brisbane
Historically, major floods in Brisbane occurred once every few decades. However, recent years have seen multiple catastrophic flooding events, including:
- 2010–2011 Queensland Floods – A La Niña event caused extreme rainfall, resulting in over $2.38 billion in damages.
- 2013 Floods (Ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald) – Intense rainfall and storm surges caused extensive flooding across Queensland.
- 2022 Brisbane Floods – Some areas saw record-breaking rainfall, leading to one of the worst flooding disasters in Brisbane’s history.
- 2025 Floods (Cyclone Alfred) – The most recent disaster, bringing severe flooding, wind damage, and widespread power outages.
With this pattern of back-to-back disasters, it’s clear that Brisbane is becoming increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather.
Why Is This Happening More Often?
Experts cite a combination of factors:
- Climate variability and warming trends – More intense storms and heavier rainfall events.
- Urban expansion – Increased development in flood-prone areas, leading to worse drainage issues.
- More frequent La Niña events – Driving higher-than-average rainfall and cyclonic activity.
The Financial Impact: Rising Insurance Costs & Repair Bills
As extreme weather becomes more frequent, homeowners are facing rising costs on two fronts.
1. Insurance Premiums Have Skyrocketed
- Insurance costs in Queensland have risen by 25-30% in recent years, with some areas seeing increases of over 50% due to higher flood risks.
- According to a 2024 report from the Insurance Council of Australia, some suburbs in Brisbane’s flood zones have seen policies double or even triple in cost.
- Many insurers are now excluding flood coverage entirely or raising excess fees to discourage claims.
2. Home Repair Costs Are at an All-Time High
- The 2022 floods caused over $2 billion in damages across Southeast Queensland.
- The 2025 Cyclone Alfred disaster added millions more in repair costs, with extensive damage to plumbing, roofing, and structural elements.
With these rising costs, it’s more important than ever to prepare your home in advance to reduce damage and avoid costly repairs.
10 Essential Steps to Prepare Your Home for Extreme Weather
Based on lessons learned from Cyclone Alfred and recent flood events, here are the top 10 things every homeowner should do to prepare.
1. Inspect and Clear Your Gutters & Downpipes
Why? Blocked gutters can cause water to back up into your roof, leading to leaks, structural damage, and ceiling collapses.
Action Plan:
- Clean out gutters every three months, especially before storm season.
- Install gutter guards to prevent debris buildup.
- Check that downpipes drain water away from your foundation.
2. Install a Sump Pump & Check Your Subfloor Drainage
Why? Many Brisbane homes have subfloor areas that can flood, causing serious water damage.
Action Plan:
- Install a sump pump with a battery backup to pump water away from your home.
- Check that your drainage system directs water away from your property.
3. Secure Your Roof & Check for Leaks
Why? Loose tiles, broken seals, and damaged roofing increase the risk of severe leaks and storm damage.
Action Plan:
- Inspect your roof annually for loose tiles, cracked flashing, or leaks.
- Consider storm-rated roofing materials if you’re planning renovations.
4. Ensure Your Overflow Relief Gully (ORG) Is Clear
Why? A blocked Overflow Relief Gully (ORG) can cause sewage to back up into your home during flooding.
Action Plan:
- Make sure your ORG is not blocked by debris.
- Check that water can flow freely out of the relief gully.
5. Elevate Outdoor Equipment & Appliances
Why? Electrical systems, air conditioners, and outdoor plumbing fixtures can become dangerous or fail if submerged.
Action Plan:
- Raise air conditioning units, pool pumps, and hot water systems above expected flood levels.
- Move electrical wiring and outlets higher in flood-prone homes.
6. Seal Gaps & Weatherproof Your Home
Why? Small gaps around doors, windows, and walls can let in water during storms, leading to damage.
Action Plan:
- Apply weatherproof seals around windows and doors.
- Install flood barriers or sandbags in high-risk areas.
7. Reinforce Garage Doors & Entry Points
Why? Garage doors are a weak point during cyclones and storms.
Action Plan:
- Install bracing kits or heavy-duty reinforcement.
- Seal gaps at the bottom of garage doors to prevent water from entering.
8. Create an Emergency Water & Power Supply Plan
Why? Power and water supply disruptions are common during extreme weather events.
Action Plan:
- Store emergency water supplies (bathtubs, bottled water, rainwater tanks).
- Keep a backup generator or power bank charged for essential devices.
9. Secure Outdoor Items & Trim Trees
Why? Loose objects become deadly projectiles in high winds.
Action Plan:
- Tie down outdoor furniture, trampolines, and loose garden items.
- Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent damage to your home.
10. Review Your Insurance Policy & Evacuation Plan
Why? Many homeowners only check their insurance after disaster strikes—too late to make changes.
Action Plan:
- Review flood and storm coverage annually to ensure you’re protected.
- Prepare an evacuation kit with important documents, food, and supplies.
Conclusion: Protect Your Home Before It’s Too Late
Brisbane’s severe weather events are no longer rare—they’re happening more frequently, and the cost of damage is rising. By taking proactive steps now, you can:
- Protect your home from costly damage
- Keep your insurance premiums lower
- Ensure your family’s safety during extreme weather
At RJT Plumbing & Gas, we can help you prepare your home’s plumbing and drainage systems to withstand extreme weather. Contact us today for an inspection and expert advice!
