For generations, the Australian summer has been defined by the harvest and the heat. But a shift in our climate is rewriting the seasonal script. Recent data from industry leaders Elders Insurance and WFI reveal a sobering reality: summer storms now account for nearly 50% of annual farm property claims.

In 2024 alone, storm-related claim payouts doubled to over $92 million, with New South Wales and Queensland bearing the brunt (accounting for 35% and 30% of claims, respectively). We are no longer just facing “the occasional storm”; we are navigating a period of heightened climate volatility where “routine” summer cells carry the financial punch of major catastrophes.

The “Storm-Proof” Checklist: Protecting Critical Assets

Resilience isn’t about stopping the storm; it’s about ensuring your infrastructure can stand its ground. Use this checklist to audit your farm before the peak summer window.

1. Solar Infrastructure (PV Arrays & Inverters)

Solar panels are often the most exposed—and expensive—vulnerable points on a modern property.

• Check Torque Settings: High winds create uplift forces. Ensure all mounting clamps and rail bolts are tightened to manufacturer specifications to prevent panels from becoming projectiles.
• Install Surge Protection: Lightning doesn’t need a direct hit to fry your inverter. Ensure your system has high-quality surge arrestors installed on both the DC and AC sides.
• Clear the Wind Tunnel: Remove debris from underneath ground-mounted arrays. Airflow is good, but trapped debris can cause hotspots or fuel fires if a dry lightning strike occurs.

2. Fencing & Perimeter Security

Fencing claims are a major driver of the 50% surge, often caused by falling timber or washouts.

• Tension Check: Ensure wires are correctly tensioned. Loose wires are more likely to snag flying debris or collapse under the weight of fallen branches.
• Flood Gates: In areas prone to flash flooding, ensure flood gates are operational and clear of silt so they can give rather than taking the entire fence line down with them.

3. Sheds and Immovable Machinery

The average cost per claim has jumped to roughly $24,000, largely due to structural damage to outbuildings.

• Seal the Envelope: Check for loose roof sheets or flashing. Once the wind gets under a sheet, the internal pressure can lift the entire roof.
• Gutter Hygiene: Blocked gutters lead to internal water damage. Ensure downpipes are clear to move high volumes of water away from foundations.
• Secure the “Missiles”: Store loose items—such as ladders, empty chemical drums, and timber offcuts—inside or tie them down.

The Bottom Line: Preparation is Profit

The data suggests that the financial gap between the prepared and the unprepared is widening. With repair wait times for specialised infrastructure stretching into months, a proactive weekend of maintenance in October or November can be the difference between a productive harvest and a season-ending insurance claim.

Expert Advice with ARMA Insurance Brokers

Preparing your property is half the battle; ensuring you have the right coverage is the other. At ARMA Insurance Brokers, we offer expert insurance advice tailored to the specific needs of the Australian agricultural sector.

As climate volatility increases, standard policies may no longer cut it. We help you navigate these shifting patterns to ensure your solar infrastructure, fencing, and livelihoods are fully protected.

Don’t leave your resilience to chance. Contact ARMA Insurance Brokers today for a comprehensive review of your farm’s insurance strategy.