Summer in Sydney means holidays, beach trips and well deserved breaks from the daily grind. But while you’re planning your getaway, your roof needs some attention too. Between November and April, our storm season brings destructive winds, heavy rainfall and flash flooding that can wreak havoc on an unmaintained roof. Last season alone, NSW SES responded to more than 29,000 storm incidents, with leaking roofs and fallen trees making up a large percentage of emergency calls.
Preparing your roof before an extended holiday absence isn’t just smart housekeeping; it’s protecting your biggest investment. A cracked tile, blocked gutter or loose flashing that seems minor today can turn into thousands of dollars in water damage while you’re away. Ivy Roofing specialises in pre-holiday roof inspections and maintenance packages designed specifically for Sydney homeowners heading away over summer. Our team provides comprehensive roof inspections with photo reports, gutter cleaning, tile replacement, flashing repairs and sarking installation to ensure your home stays protected while you’re enjoying your break.
Quick Checklist at a Glance
Before you leave for your summer holiday, make sure you’ve covered these essential tasks:
- Book a professional roof inspection with photo documentation
- Clear all gutters, downpipes and drains of debris
- Replace any broken, cracked or missing tiles
- Trim overhanging branches within one metre of your roofline
- Check and repair all flashings around chimneys, skylights and vents
- Test your stormwater drainage system
- Secure loose items like antennas and solar mounting equipment
- Leave pre-authorised repair instructions with a trusted neighbour or property manager
Don’t risk coming home to water damage and costly repairs. Book your pre-holiday roof inspection with Ivy Roofing today and leave with complete peace of mind.
The Pre-Holiday Roof Checklist: Step by Step
Not all roof maintenance tasks are suitable for homeowners to tackle themselves. Understanding what you can safely do from ground level and what requires a licensed professional is crucial for both your safety and insurance compliance.
Safe Ground Level Tasks You Can Do Yourself
Walk your property perimeter for a visual inspection
Use binoculars or stand safely at your ladder base to check for obvious problems like missing tiles, sagging gutters or visible gaps in your roofline. Look for discolouration that might indicate water pooling or previous leaks. Never climb onto your roof yourself; falls from roofs are a leading cause of serious injury in Australia, and SafeWork NSW requires proper training and fall protection equipment for any rooftop access.
Clear debris from accessible gutters
NSW SES specifically recommends cleaning gutters, downpipes and drains to prevent blockages as a key storm preparation step. Blocked gutters cause water to overflow and potentially enter your home through the roof cavity or eaves. If you can safely reach your gutters from a stable ladder at ground level, remove leaves, twigs and any bird nests. Test water flow by running a garden hose into the gutters. If water pools or overflows, you likely have a blockage in the downpipes that requires professional attention.
Trim overhanging branches
NSW SES guidance recommends trimming trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or property. Overhanging branches not only pose impact risks during storms but also deposit debris that blocks gutters. Keep vegetation at least one metre away from your roofline to reduce fire risk during bushfire season and protect your roof structure.
Check visible flashings and sealants
From ground level, inspect the visible flashings and sealant around chimneys, skylights and vents for obvious cracks or gaps. These are common leak sources, but detailed assessment requires professional inspection.
Secure loose outdoor items
Walk around your property and secure or store items that could become projectiles in high winds, including outdoor furniture, trampolines, antennas and unsecured solar panel mounting equipment.
Professional Tasks: Call Ivy Roofing
The following maintenance tasks require licensed professionals with proper safety equipment and expertise. Attempting these yourself puts you at serious risk of injury and may void your insurance coverage.
Comprehensive roof inspection with photographic report
A professional inspection by Ivy Roofing includes safe rooftop access with proper fall protection equipment, detailed assessment of all roof components and a timestamped photo report. This documentation is invaluable for insurance claims and helps you authorise emergency repairs while away. Our inspectors check every tile or sheet, assess structural integrity and identify potential failure points before they become emergencies.
Tile replacement and metal roof maintenance
Cracked, broken or missing tiles need immediate replacement before you leave. For metal roofs, we check and retension all fixings and screws, which can loosen over time due to thermal expansion and contraction. Even a single compromised tile can allow significant water entry during heavy rainfall.
Flashing, valley and penetration repairs
Ridge capping and flashings are your roof’s first line of defence against water entry. Ivy Roofing inspects and repairs all metal flashings, checks for loose mortar pointing on ridge tiles and assesses valleys and roof penetrations including skylights, vents, plumbing stacks and antenna mounting points. These areas require specific weatherproofing knowledge and proper sealing materials.
Complete gutter and downpipe service
Professional gutter cleaning goes beyond what you can do from ground level. We clear all debris, check gutter brackets and alignment, test stormwater flow throughout your entire drainage system and repair any sagging or damaged sections. Proper stormwater management prevents water from backing up and entering your home.
Sarking and insulation assessment
Your roof’s sarking and underlay provide crucial secondary protection during extreme weather. Ivy Roofing can access your roof space safely to inspect these materials and recommend upgrades where needed. This is especially important if you’re planning any roof colour changes or re-roofing work, as current BASIX requirements mandate roof insulation (minimum R6.0 ceiling insulation as of October 2023) when using medium or dark coloured roofing materials.
Pre-authorised maintenance approval
One of the smartest steps before leaving is to pre-authorise specific repairs with Ivy Roofing. You can sign off on an approved list of potential emergency repairs, so if severe weather strikes while you’re away, our team can act immediately without waiting for your approval. This prevents small problems from becoming major disasters.
Emergency boarding and temporary protection
If severe weather is forecast just before you leave, Ivy Roofing can provide temporary tarping or emergency boarding to protect vulnerable areas of your roof. This proactive approach can prevent catastrophic water damage.
Sydney and NSW Regulatory Considerations
Understanding your legal obligations around roof maintenance ensures you stay compliant and protected, especially when you’re planning to be away from your property for extended periods.
Safe Work Requirements and Fall Prevention
SafeWork NSW has strict regulations about working at heights, and these rules exist because falls from roofs are the number one cause of traumatic fatalities in the NSW building and construction industry. Only licensed tradespeople with appropriate fall protection equipment should access roofs. Homeowners attempting rooftop work without proper training, equipment and safety systems face serious injury risks and potential insurance complications if accidents occur.
The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025 requires proper risk management for all work at heights, regardless of how high the roof is. Temporary edge protection, safety harnesses and proper anchoring systems are mandatory, and these systems must be installed by licensed scaffolders or riggers. Ivy Roofing’s team follows all SafeWork NSW protocols, uses compliant safety equipment and maintains comprehensive insurance coverage for every job.
Council Approvals and Development Consent
Most minor roof repairs and maintenance work, including replacing broken tiles with identical materials, do not require council approval in NSW. However, certain types of roof work do trigger approval requirements.
You generally need council approval or a Complying Development Certificate for:
- Complete re-roofing projects, even when replacing like for like materials
- Changing roof materials, such as switching from tiles to metal sheets
- Altering roof pitch or structure
- Work on heritage listed properties
- Significant repairs affecting more than 20% of the roof structure
Minor maintenance like replacing a few broken tiles, resealing flashings or cleaning gutters falls under exempt development. However, if you’re planning more extensive work before your holiday, always confirm requirements with your local council. Ivy Roofing can assist with council compliance, Development Applications and Complying Development Certificates when needed.
BASIX and Roof Insulation Requirements
If you’re planning roof repairs or upgrades before your extended absence, be aware of current BASIX thermal comfort standards. As of October 2023, new BASIX requirements significantly increased insulation standards, with minimum ceiling insulation roughly doubling from R3.0 to R6.0.
The NSW Planning Portal specifies that you must select roof insulation if you have a medium or dark coloured roof when using the BASIX DIY method. Light coloured roofing materials (with lower solar absorptance) may not require roof insulation but can still benefit from it to reduce ceiling insulation requirements. Any foil product installed under the roof requires an air gap of at least 20mm between the underside of the foil and the top of the ceiling insulation.
While these requirements primarily apply to new construction and major renovations, they’re important considerations if you’re planning significant roof work. Ivy Roofing can advise on insulation upgrades that improve your home’s thermal performance and help meet compliance requirements.
Strata Properties and Shared Responsibilities
If your holiday home is part of a strata scheme, understanding maintenance responsibilities is crucial before you leave. Under NSW strata legislation, the owners corporation is generally responsible for maintaining common property including roofs, unless your strata plan specifies otherwise. Individual lot owners may be responsible for maintaining certain roof elements that exclusively serve their lot.
Before arranging roof maintenance, review your strata plan and by-laws to clarify responsibilities. If the owners corporation is responsible, you’ll need to request approval for works or report issues to your strata manager before leaving. Document everything in writing so there’s a clear record of issues reported and approvals granted. Ivy Roofing regularly works with strata managers and understands the documentation and approval processes required for strata properties.
Insurance, Risk and Landlord Obligations
Documenting your roof’s condition before you leave provides valuable protection if disaster strikes while you’re away.
Insurance Documentation and Claims
A professional pre-holiday inspection with timestamped photos and a written condition report significantly strengthens insurance claims. If storm damage occurs while you’re away, you can prove your roof was properly maintained and in good condition when you left. This documentation removes ambiguity about whether damage was caused by the storm or by pre-existing neglect.
Many insurance policies include clauses requiring reasonable property maintenance. If a claim assessor determines that damage resulted from deferred maintenance rather than the insured event, your claim may be reduced or denied. Spending a few hundred dollars on pre-holiday maintenance and documentation can protect you from a denied claim worth tens of thousands.
Ivy Roofing’s inspection reports include detailed photographs, specific notes about the condition of all roof components and professional recommendations for any maintenance needs. These reports are specifically designed to support insurance requirements and provide clear evidence of your property’s condition.
Landlord Responsibilities and Tenancy Obligations
If you’re a landlord planning to be away while your property is tenanted, you have legal obligations under NSW tenancy laws to maintain the property in good repair. This includes keeping the roof watertight and responding promptly to maintenance issues.
Before leaving, ensure your property manager or tenants have:
- Clear emergency contact information for urgent repairs
- Pre-authorisation to arrange emergency roof repairs up to a specified amount
- Contact details for Ivy Roofing or your preferred roofing contractor
- Written instructions about what constitutes an emergency requiring immediate action
Failing to maintain a rental property’s roof can breach your legal obligations and expose you to compensation claims from tenants if their belongings are damaged by water ingress.
Your Pre-Holiday Timeline: When to Do What
Proper timing ensures everything is completed before you leave, without last minute stress.
Six to eight weeks before departure: Book your comprehensive roof inspection with Ivy Roofing. This gives you time to schedule any necessary repairs without rush fees or limited availability during the busy holiday season.
Four to five weeks before: Complete all recommended repairs, including tile replacement, flashing work and gutter cleaning. This timing allows for materials ordering and gives trades access to your property while you’re still around to answer questions.
Two to three weeks before: Arrange your maintenance approvals and emergency contact systems. Sign pre-authorisation forms with Ivy Roofing, brief your property manager or trusted neighbour about potential issues and confirm everyone has the right contact numbers.
One week before: Conduct your final visual ground level check. Trim any remaining overhanging branches, secure loose items and test your stormwater drainage one last time by running hoses into gutters.
Day before departure: Do a final perimeter walk, check weather forecasts for the week ahead and make sure your emergency contacts have your travel itinerary and know how to reach you if needed.
Practical Tips for Absentee Owners
Beyond roof maintenance, a few additional steps provide extra security and peace of mind.
Leave comprehensive contact details
Provide your property manager, neighbour or trusted friend with detailed emergency contacts including your mobile number, email, accommodation details and a secondary emergency contact if you’ll be difficult to reach.
Pre-authorise emergency repairs
Work with Ivy Roofing to establish a pre-approved emergency repair protocol. Decide on a dollar limit for repairs that can proceed without your explicit approval and sign written authorisation. This prevents delays when every hour counts during a storm emergency.
Request a holiday ready maintenance pack
Ask Ivy Roofing for a comprehensive pre-holiday package including a photo condition report, notes on any minor issues to monitor and an emergency tarp plan if severe weather is forecast. This gives you and your emergency contacts a clear reference point.
Consider ongoing maintenance agreements
Ivy Roofing offers maintenance subscription services with seasonal check-ins and priority emergency response for subscribed customers. If you travel frequently or own multiple properties, a maintenance plan ensures your roof receives regular attention without you having to remember to book appointments.
Why Choose Ivy Roofing for Your Holiday Home Protection
Ivy Roofing has built its reputation on reliable, professional service for Sydney residential homeowners, including those who travel frequently or own holiday properties.
- Local Sydney expertise: We understand Sydney’s specific weather patterns, from summer storms to coastal salt exposure, and tailor our maintenance recommendations to your suburb’s conditions.
- Comprehensive service range: From pre-holiday inspections and preventative maintenance to emergency storm repairs and complete re-roofing, we handle every aspect of roof care. Our services include gutter cleaning, sarking and insulation installation, heritage tile restoration and BASIX compliance support.
- Safety compliant operations: All Ivy Roofing installers are fully licensed and insured. We follow SafeWork NSW protocols and use compliant fall protection systems on every job, giving you peace of mind that work is being done safely and legally.
- Photographic condition reports: Our inspection reports include comprehensive timestamped photography and detailed written assessments, perfect for insurance requirements and providing clear documentation of your roof’s condition.
- Emergency response capability: When storms hit, Ivy Roofing provides rapid emergency response including temporary tarping, emergency boarding and urgent leak repairs. Maintenance subscription customers receive priority response during peak emergency periods.
- Workmanship warranty and quality guarantee: We stand behind every job with comprehensive warranties and a commitment to quality that has made us Sydney’s trusted roofing specialists.
Ready to protect your home before your summer holiday? Contact Ivy Roofing today to book your pre-holiday roof inspection and maintenance package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean my gutters myself before leaving for summer holidays?
You can safely clean accessible gutters from ground level or a stable ladder base, but only if you’re comfortable working on ladders and can do so safely. However, many gutters require rooftop access to clean properly, and SafeWork NSW regulations specify that only trained personnel with proper fall protection should access roofs. For thorough gutter cleaning before an extended absence, professional service is the safest and most comprehensive option. Ivy Roofing’s gutter cleaning service includes checking bracket integrity, testing drainage flow and identifying any repairs needed.
Will a small roof leak get worse while I’m away for several weeks?
Yes, absolutely. A small leak can cause extensive damage very quickly, especially during summer storm season. Water entry doesn’t just cause immediate visible damage; it promotes mould growth, damages insulation, compromises structural timber and can affect electrical systems. A leak that seems minor today can result in thousands of dollars in water damage after a few heavy storms. Never leave a known leak unrepaired before an extended absence. Contact Ivy Roofing for urgent leak repairs before you travel.
Do I need council approval to replace a few broken tiles before my holiday?
No, replacing individual broken tiles with identical materials is considered minor maintenance and falls under exempt development in NSW. You don’t need council approval for this work. However, if you’re replacing more than 20% of your roof, changing materials or altering the roof structure, you may need a Complying Development Certificate or Development Application. When in doubt, Ivy Roofing can advise on whether your specific project requires approval.
Should I leave a tarp on my roof if storms are forecast just before I leave?
Only as a very temporary measure and only if it’s professionally installed. Improperly secured tarps can blow off in high winds and cause more damage or become dangerous projectiles. If you have roof damage and storms are forecast, the better solution is emergency repairs before you leave. Ivy Roofing can provide rapid emergency boarding or proper temporary weatherproofing that will hold securely through storm season. Never attempt to install tarps yourself on a rooftop; this is exactly the type of dangerous work that causes serious injuries.
How often should I have my roof professionally inspected?
For residential properties in Sydney, we recommend annual professional roof inspections, ideally before storm season begins in late spring. If your property will be vacant for extended periods, if you’ve recently experienced severe weather or if your roof is over 15 years old, more frequent inspections are wise. Ivy Roofing offers maintenance plans that include scheduled seasonal inspections and priority emergency response.
What happens if my roof is damaged while I’m overseas and I can’t get back immediately?
This is exactly why pre-authorised maintenance agreements are so valuable. If you’ve set up an emergency repair protocol with Ivy Roofing before leaving and provided written pre-authorisation, we can respond immediately to protect your property. Our emergency team can install temporary protection, arrange urgent repairs and document everything thoroughly for your insurance claim. We’ll keep you updated via phone and email, provide photos of the damage and repairs and work directly with your property manager or emergency contact to minimise damage.
Protect Your Investment This Summer
Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against Sydney’s challenging weather. Taking time to prepare it properly before your summer holiday is one of the smartest investments you can make. A few hundred dollars in preventative maintenance and professional inspection can save you tens of thousands in emergency repairs and water damage.
Don’t leave your home vulnerable while you’re away. Book your pre-holiday roof inspection with Ivy Roofing today and travel with confidence knowing your property is protected. Our team is ready to provide comprehensive inspection, urgent repairs and ongoing maintenance support tailored to your travel schedule.
Contact Ivy Roofing now to schedule your pre-holiday roof maintenance package and download our free Pre-Holiday Roof Checklist to ensure you haven’t missed any critical preparation steps.
Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance about roof maintenance and NSW regulatory requirements. Always confirm specific requirements with your local council, insurer or a qualified professional for your particular circumstances.
