Yes. Strengthening your home can make a big difference during a cyclone. Research from James Cook University shows that upgrades like stronger roof tie-downs, cyclone shutters, better window seals, and reinforced doors all help reduce damage when winds and rain intensify.

Even homes built to current standards can still experience water coming in during a cyclone. Simple improvements and regular maintenance can prevent this - helping keep the inside of your home dry and protected.

Upgrades don’t just reduce damage on the day of the cyclone. They can also help you avoid the smaller but frustrating issues that often lead to low-value insurance claims, such as minor leaks or damaged fittings. Preventing these problems can:

• Save you paying an excess
• Reduce the inconvenience of repairs and appointments
• Avoid disruption to your daily life in the weeks or months after the storm

Strengthening your home is an investment in peace of mind, comfort, and long-term protection.

Many insurers offer discounts for cyclone-resilient improvements, but it varies by provider and policy. Always check with your insurer before starting upgrades, keep receipts and photos, and report resilience upgrades to your insurer. Insurers may recognise upgrades such as roof tie-downs, cyclone shutters, and reinforced garage doors.

For homes covered under the cyclone pool, the discount applies to the part of your premium that covers wind damage during a cyclone. This is because upgrades like stronger roof connections and shutters reduce the risk of wind-related damage. Ask your insurer if you qualify and what evidence they require.

Some insurers may offer a discount on your premium for resilience measures you’ve undertaken, so it’s always worth checking with your insurer before starting work.

The most effective upgrades include:

• Roof tie-downs and bracing to prevent uplift
• Cyclone shutters or impact-resistant windows to reduce wind and water ingress
• Reinforced garage and roller doors to stop pressure build-up inside the home

Yes. Funding programs and grants may be available in your state or territory to help cover the cost of cyclone-resilient upgrades. For example, Queensland’s Household Resilience Program offers subsidies for eligible homeowners. Check local government websites or our Funding Support section for details.

Cyclone winds push rain almost horizontally against windows and walls, and storm pressures can be much higher than current test standards. This means even compliant windows and doors can let in litres of water per minute during strong gusts. Simple actions like sealing roof vents, maintaining coatings, and adding sill flaps can prevent most water ingress.

Costs may vary:

• Low-cost actions ($): Clearing gutters, sealing vents, adding sill flaps - often under $1,000.
• Medium-cost upgrades ($): Shutters, reinforced doors - typically $2,000 –$5,000.
• High-cost upgrades ($$): Roof tie-downs or full window replacements - $10,000+.

Some insurers may offer a discount on your premium for resilience measures you’ve undertaken, so it’s always worth checking with your insurer before starting work.

Additional Government funding or support may be available for larger projects through state or federal resilience programs, so check current initiatives before you start (refer to Funding support to boost your property’s cyclone resilience section)

Ideally before cyclone season begins. Start with low-cost actions now (gutter cleaning, sealing vents, checking window seals) and plan larger upgrades over time or during renovations.

• Clear gutters and add overflow points
• Seal roof vents and check flashings
• Install sill flaps on sliding windows
• Tape plastic sheets inside windows before a storm
• Repaint or reseal worn areas

These simple actions can prevent up to 80% of water ingress.