Flooding the Market: Brisbane Property Experts Weigh on Risk
Brisbane is a beautiful place to live, and there are plenty of stunning suburbs to choose from, but what do you do if your favourite neighbourhood is in a flood zone? Or worse, you know that the property you love has flooded in the past.
Here’s what three experts had to say about the risks of buying in a flood zone, including the voice of a property inspector and a plumbing professional.
Top Three Tips From The Experts
Our first tip comes directly from Andrew Mackintosh at Action Property Inspections. "If a home has been recently renovated in a flood area, there's a risk of those upgrades covering up serious structural issues or mould and dampness. A building inspection will help you determine whether it's worth the risk. You should never rush into a home purchase; a building inspection is a must!"
In addition to the initial inspection, you can have one done within the final week of closing to ensure the home is still in the expected condition. If it's not, it gives you an opportunity to renegotiate.
We also spoke to John Salmon from Salmon Plumbing about roof water and storm water drainage. "If you're prepared to buy in a flood zone, take the next step and invest in Backyard Drainage Options to mitigate the risk of serious damage. You can also opt for downpipe extensions to drain roof water and direct the overspill away from the foundation of your home."
Every home is different, and it's worth speaking to a plumber about the results of a building inspection to get a better idea of how to mitigate the risk of flooding. Not only will a plumber advise you about certain risks, they can advise you on the steps to take moving forward.
Finally, Queensland Property Experts weigh in: should you even consider buying a house with flood damage? "Ultimately, it depends, and that's why research is so important. Weather patterns are unpredictable, so it's difficult to determine whether another flood will affect the same property.
“There are always risks, but if you choose to proceed, be prepared to live in a recently flooded home for many years because more recent flooding will stay in potential buyers' minds. If the home passes inspection, it's a good sign, but ensure you can afford the insurance to cover future flooding."
Recent flooding may drive the cost of a home insurance premium up, but a clean building inspection could sway things in your favour, depending on the insurance company.
Click here to learn more about buying in flood zones and the importance of building inspections.
