Preparing your OC for the holiday season! An insurance perspective.
As 2025 draws to a close, Owners Corporations across Victoria are preparing for the holiday season. While residents look forward to time away or celebrating at home, committees play a key role in making sure buildings are safe, protected and ready for the summer months.
Taking some preparatory steps now can help prevent common holiday mishaps, reduce insurance claims and ensure your community starts the new year with peace of mind.
Water leaks don’t take a break
Water damage is one of the most frequent and costly strata claims. Burst washing machine hoses, leaking dishwashers or taps left running can affect multiple lots and common property. Owners Corporations can remind residents to:
- Switch off water connections to dishwashers and washing machines before leaving for extended holidays
- Check hoses and seals for signs of wear and tear
- Report any leaks early to building management
Turning off your taps before you go is the simplest holiday gift you can give your building, far better than a surprise flood!
Festive lights and fire safety
Decorative lighting creates a wonderful sense of occasion, but it also brings fire risks if not used safely. Faulty wiring, overloaded power boards or leaving lights on unattended are common hazards. Committees may wish to circulate a short reminder encouraging residents to:
- Use lighting that complies with Australian safety standards
- Switch lights off before going to bed or leaving home
- Avoid daisy-chaining power boards or running cords through doors and windows
The goal is more festive sparkle than unwanted sparks!
Reviewing insurance after the holidays
If you’ve been very good throughout the year, the festive elves may bring you gifts in the form of new electronics, jewellery or even home upgrades! Owners should check their contents insurance to make sure these items are protected. Santa may deliver the big-screen TV, but it’s up to you to make sure your policy catches up!
Be ready for Victoria’s summer weather
Victoria’s summer brings its own challenges – storms, flash flooding, heatwaves and bushfire conditions. Owners Corporations should:
- Clear gutters, drains and outdoor common areas of debris
- Test emergency lighting and exits
- Stay alert to Bureau of Meteorology warnings and council updates
Encouraging residents to take similar steps within their own lots builds resilience across the whole community.
Steps to take in an emergency
Even with the best preparation, emergencies can occur. A clear plan helps limit damage and speed up recovery. Key steps include:
- Isolating the source (for example, turning off water or power if safe)
- Contacting emergency services if required
- Documenting damage with photos
- Notifying your strata manager or committee immediately
- Contacting your strata manager to begin the claims process
Quick action can reduce the impact on both residents and common property.
The role of a dedicated claims team
Insurance really shows its value when a claim is made. At MBCM our strata managers work with a dedicated claims team acts, guiding Owners Corporations and residents through the process, helping avoid delays and achieving fair outcomes.
Having experienced professionals on your side, both from a strata and insurance perspective means that if damage or loss occurs over the holiday period, your community isn’t left navigating complex claims alone.
Looking ahead to 2026
By encouraging these simple steps, Owners Corporations can reduce risks, protect residents and start the new year on a stronger footing. A well-prepared community is the best gift you can give your strata community this festive season.