As Australia braces for an unseasonably warm summer, a significant portion of homeowners are leaving their properties dangerously exposed. New research from Allianz Australia reveals that 42 per cent of surveyed Australians have not started or completed any home maintenance to prepare for seasonal weather risks this upcoming summer.
Costly Complacency: A Summer of Rising Risks
The festive season's distractions are leaving many households vulnerable. Allianz data shows that home and contents insurance claims, excluding natural catastrophes, incurred total costs of $84 million during the summer of 2024/25. Even regular storm events proved expensive, with hail damage alone costing over $20.4 million and lightning strikes leading to $7.05 million in claims.
Despite these figures, the research indicates widespread inaction. Nearly one in five Australians (19%) plan to invest no money into summer home maintenance, while 18% will invest no time. A concerning 42% believe their home is already safe enough, and 14% don't think seasonal weather will affect them. Cost-of-living pressures are also a barrier, with 23% stating they cannot afford to spend more on seasonal upkeep.
Beyond the Weather: The Hidden Dangers of Summer
Preparation needs to extend beyond the forecast. The busy nature of the season leads to increased distraction, with 35% of Australians feeling more distracted during summer gatherings. This contributes to a lack of readiness, as 22% confess they would feel unprepared if a home accident occurred.
Common summer activities carry hidden risks. While BBQ use skyrockets, only 24% of Australians check their outdoor BBQs for fire risks and faults before using them. Allianz claims data shows BBQ-related incidents can result in claims amounting to tens of thousands of dollars.
Other overlooked hazards include lithium batteries, with related claims exceeding $2.6 million last summer, and festive decorations. The first day of summer, 1 December, was the costliest day for home insurance claims last season at $5.72 million, yet only 9% of Australians bought a surge protector in the last 12 months to protect plugged-in decorations.
Securing Your Home and Peace of Mind
With more than a quarter (26%) of Australians concerned about their home's resilience, Allianz has released its first Allianz Prevention: Summer Risk Report. This free online guide provides practical advice for homeowners.
"At Allianz, we understand that constant weather reports and changes in forecast can be overwhelming and confusing," said Shez Ford, Chief General Manager Consumer at Allianz Australia. "That's why we've created the Allianz Prevention: Summer Risk Report, a one stop guide to help Australians prepare their homes for the risks associated with the summer season."
Property expert Rebecca Cardamone, founder of Ace Property Agency, emphasises routine. "The key is to create a regular schedule," she advises. "Seasonal checks, like servicing your air conditioner or inspecting your BBQ on the first day of the new season, become part of your routine - allowing you to enjoy the holidays without worry."
Don't Forget Security When You Get Away
With 40% of Australians planning to visit family or friends and 24% going on day trips, home security is paramount. However, only 53% secure their property against robbery when away for two or more nights, and just 41% ask a neighbour to check in. This is a critical oversight, as theft claims spiked to $1.62 million over the two-week holiday period last year.
Luke Whenman, Chief Claims Officer at Allianz Australia, summarises the seasonal threat. "Our claims data clearly shows that Australians experience a variety of risks across the summer season... With claims often increasing, it's vital to put simple precautions in place."
These precautions include inspecting BBQs for leaks, securing loose outdoor items to minimise storm hazards, and ensuring all doors and windows are locked before leaving. For more detailed tips and to access the full Summer Risk Report, visit Allianz.com.au/Prevention.
