Climate change is real, and the effects are spreading all across Australia. Reduced rainfall is causing soil dryness and shrinkage. More buildings are sinking into the unstable ground, leading to an increased demand for our underpinning Melbourne services to save residential structures.
Other expected effects of climate change to homes in different parts of Melbourne are:
Sea levels are rising due to increasing temperatures melting the ice caps. Melbourne’s coast has thousands of residential buildings worth billions of dollars, and a 1.1-metre rise in sea levels may put many of these buildings at risk, jeopardising the homes of millions of people.
Climate change is already affecting the sewage system of many homes in Melbourne. For instance, since the 1990s, sea levels have risen by 1 to 2.8mm every year. The rising water level affects sewage transfer, treatment systems, and other wastewater infrastructures along the coastline.
As the change intensifies, homeowners in Melbourne may have to seek alternatives for sewage management and disposal.
Severe heatwaves caused by climate change are causing more bushfires and heat-related health issues. On average, Melbourne experiences 11 days every year with temperatures over 35 degrees. By 2050, that number might rise to 16 days.
In 2009, almost 400 people died from heat-related complications, the elderly and the very young being the most vulnerable to excessive heat illnesses. People are responding by installing air conditioning systems in their residences. Unfortunately, 19% of Melbourne residents live under the poverty line and cannot afford indoor cooling.
Bushfires are spreading smoke and ash, endangering the health of individuals with asthma and other respiratory issues. To cope, more Melbourne residents are investing in indoor air quality systems for their houses.
Fewer rains and a rising population are leading to a water shortage in Melbourne. By 2030, the average surface water in the area might reduce by 13%. Since an over-reliance on state-provided water may prove disastrous, more homeowners might invest in having their own water supply via wells.
Rainfall in Melbourne is less frequent than it once was but more intense. In 2018, a 1-in-1000 year rainfall event befell the city, dropping 50mm of rain in just 15 minutes. The result was flash flooding in several parts of Melbourne, which affected hundreds of properties.
On the upside, more Melbourne homes are taking advantage of the increasing number of bright sunny days by switching to solar power. Solar energy for electricity is cost-effective and provides sufficient power with minimal pollution. Installing solar panels can also boost your property’s market value.
Climate change is a real threat to homes on Melbourne’s coast and further inland. Taking necessary measures to prepare for flooding, bushfires, heatwaves, and other issues will ensure that your house remains habitable as the environment continues to change.