Rebuilding after a disaster

If you have been affected by a natural disaster such as a flood, bushfire, cyclone or severe storm, there is support available to help you recover and rebuild safely. 

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) supports Queensland communities after natural disasters by providing technical advice and practical guidance on rebuilding and repair works. 

QBCC has developed a range of fact sheets and publications to help homeowners and contractors understand what to do at each stage of recovery. A full list of resources is available on the QBCC website. 

For local information and support following a flood, including recovery assistance, visit Council’s Disaster Support and Preparedness page. 

Rebuilding after a flood

Guide for homeowners

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission's (QBCC) Home Owners Guide to Rebuilding After a Flood(PDF, 408KB) provides general advice to help you repair and restore your home after flood damage. 

The guide recommends the following steps: 

  • Ensure your property is safe before entering; 

  • Lodge an insurance claim as soon as possible; 

  • Arrange removal of flood debris from around the property; 

  • Allow the building to dry out properly; 

  • Consider repair and restoration options with your insurer; 

  • Use QBCC‑licensed contractors for all repair and rebuilding work. 

Every situation is different. This guide provides general advice only and may not apply to all circumstances.

Download the Home Owner’s Guide to Rebuilding After a Flood(PDF, 408KB) here.

Guide for contractors

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission's (QBCC) Contractor's Guide to Rebuilding After a Flood(PDF, 648KB) supports licensed contractors involved in flood recovery work. It covers immediate, medium‑term and long‑term repair and restoration activities. 

The guide recognises that: 

  • a home is often a person’s largest financial and emotional investment; 

  • homeowners may be dealing with insurance uncertainty and temporary accommodation; 

  • restoring a home safely requires care, clear communication and staged decision‑making. 

This guide focuses on restoration and repair work only. 

Key considerations include: 

  • Making all services safe before remedial work begins; 

  • Removing flood debris promptly to allow drying; 

  • Removing plinths (kickers) under kitchen and bathroom cabinets to aid drying; 

  • Partially removing plasterboard linings where required; 

  • Checking moisture levels — finishing work should not begin until wall framing moisture content is below 16%. 

Download the Contractor's Guide to Rebuilding After a Flood(PDF, 648KB) here.

If you are unsure what applies to your situation or need help understanding approvals or rebuilding requirements, please contact Council for guidance on (07) 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au to book in a time with our team. 

This information is intended to support safe, compliant rebuilding and help residents recover confidently after a disaster. 

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