Kia haumaru ake tō kāinga Make your home safer
Your home is where you and your family should feel safest, especially during an emergency. Taking small steps now can make a big difference. Here’s how you can make your home safer:
Secure heavy items
Large furniture, TVs, and appliances can easily topple over in an earthquake, securing these is a simple way to prevent injuries and reduce damage:
- Use brackets or straps to secure heavy items to the walls or floors.
- Move heavy or fragile items to shelves or cupboards lower down.
- Hang pictures and mirrors on proper hooks (no single nails).
Fix weak spots in your home
Keep your home well-maintained. Look for any signs of damage to your roof, foundation, and walls. Strengthening these areas can protect your home from the impacts of earthquakes, floods, or high winds.
Some brick and concrete chimneys are at risk of collapsing in an earthquake. Check the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake's website for more information about how to make chimneys safer.
Keep your gutters and drains clean
Regularly clean your gutters and drains to prevent water from building up and causing flooding during heavy rain. This helps keep water away from your home, reducing the risk of damage.
Check your insurance
Make sure your home and contents insurance are up to date and provide enough coverage in case of an emergency. Understand what is covered, especially for hazards like floods and earthquakes, and keep records of important documents.
Information for renters
In February 2021, there were changes to New Zealand's Residential Tenancy Act to make it easier for renters to quake safe their homes. If you rent your home and want to make it safer talk to your landlord or property manager first.