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Post-Earthquake Safety Checks for Your Home After Wellington Earthquake

On October 6th, 2024, Wellington was struck by a 5.8 magnitude earthquake, shaking homes and businesses across the region. While no major injuries were reported, this quake serves as a reminder of the importance of inspecting your home’s key systems after such an event. Even moderate earthquakes can cause hidden damage that could lead to long-term issues if not addressed promptly.

What to Look For in Your Home After the 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake

The recent quake likely caused structural shifts in many homes, especially those with older or more vulnerable infrastructure. Here’s a checklist of critical areas to inspect:

Plumbing Systems

Check for Leaks: Earthquakes often lead to cracked or loosen water pipes. It’s recommended to check for any leaks or moisture under sinks, around water heaters, or any other visible plumbing. This is especially important for homes with older plumbing systems, which may be more susceptible to damage.

Water Pressure: After an earthquake, if you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, then it’s an indication of hidden plumbing damage. To test this issue, you can turn on all the taps and listen for any unusual sound or inconsistent pressure.

Sewer Line Integrity: Earthquakes can cause underground shifts, potentially affecting your sewer line. You can monitor your plumbing and check for slow drainage or gurgling sounds to see if there are any potential problems.

Electrical Systems

Inspect Wiring and Appliances: The shaking from the 5.8 magnitude earthquake may have dislodged wiring or damaged electrical fixtures. Check for exposed wires or signs of sparking, especially around appliances like water heaters and kitchen equipment.

Breaker Box: In Wellington, some households reported power outages after the quake. If your breaker tripped during the quake, reset it cautiously. If it continues to trip, it could indicate an underlying issue that needs professional attention.

Inspect-Wiring-Appliances-Wellington

Roof and Chimneys

Roof Damage: Inspect your roof for loose or missing shingles, especially if your house is in an area closer to the quake’s epicentre. Roof damage may not be immediately visible, so it’s important to thoroughly inspect for any signs of water damage or displaced materials.

Chimney Cracks: Wellington homes with brick or masonry chimneys may have experienced cracking or dislodgement. Even small cracks could lead to larger structural issues if left unchecked.

Drainage Systems

Sewage and Drainage Issues: After the Wellington earthquake, local utilities reported increased stress on drainage systems. If you notice slow drains or sewage backup, this could be due to damaged underground pipes or shifting foundations that have affected drainage lines.

Outdoor Drains: Earthquakes can also cause ground shifts that block or disrupt outdoor drainage systems. Check around your home for any signs of water pooling, particularly near foundation areas.

Sewage and Drainage Issues Wellington

Foundation and Structural Integrity

Foundation Cracks: The 5.8 magnitude quake likely caused some shifting in Wellington homes, especially those built on hillsides or reclaimed land. Examine your foundation for any new cracks or widening of existing ones. Even hairline cracks can be a sign of structural movement.

Doors and Windows: If doors and windows stick or no longer open smoothly, it could be a sign that the frame of your house shifted during the quake.

Gas Lines

Gas Leak Safety: Gas lines are vulnerable during earthquakes, and the Wellington quake was no exception. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate your home immediately and turn off the gas supply if it’s safe to do so. Report any gas leaks to your local utility provider for prompt inspection and repair.

Water Supply and Storage

Water Supply Disruptions: Some areas of Wellington experienced temporary water disruptions following the earthquake. Check your main water supply for leaks or damage, and ensure that your taps are running clearly.

Rainwater Tanks: If you have a water tank, inspect it for any cracks or damage that could have occurred during the quake. Damaged tanks can lead to water contamination, so it’s important to check the quality of your stored water before use.

Why Immediate Inspections Are Crucial

While Wellington’s 5.8 magnitude earthquake may not have caused widespread devastation, the potential for hidden damage to your home’s infrastructure remains high. Minor issues such as cracked pipes, damaged wiring, or weakened foundations may not be immediately obvious but can escalate into costly repairs or even dangerous situations if left unaddressed. Catching these problems early is essential to prevent further deterioration or hazards down the line.

At Southern, we specialise in post-earthquake inspections and repairs, offering comprehensive plumbing, drainage, and hot water cylinder services across Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, and the Kapiti Coast. You can call us on 0800 484 353. Our experienced team is equipped to assess and address any issues with your home’s systems to ensure they are safe and functioning properly. If you suspect damage or want a professional evaluation, we’re here to help restore your home’s safety and peace of mind.

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