Published works

Significant financial loss in terms of cost of rebuilding or repair and loss of function of property (e.g. commercial activity, rental, relocation of residents, etc.), has been documented following recent severe tropical cyclones impacting the Australian coastal communities. These damage investigations estimate that the wind speeds in these events were less than the Australian building standard’s design level wind speed for the regions impacted. Analysis of insurance claims data highlights issues with wind driven rain water damage. Additionally, investigations of the damaged buildings along with analysis of claims data reveals a high proportion of the losses are associated with contemporary construction as opposed to pre-current code buildings. 

Education and awareness of consequences of such failures (e.g. damage to property and risk to life) is required in all steps of the building process (regulation, design, construction, certification and maintenance) and by all parties (designer, builder, certifier, and owner).