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Landslide

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Most landslide risks will have been planned for by councils or government departments. However, there are other types of landslides that could pose a threat.

Before

  • Learn about the risk of landslides in your area and consult available landslide mapping/zoning.
  • Be aware that landslide insurance is not available anywhere in Australia.
  • Comply with planning controls in relation to slope stability.
  • Make sure that any construction work you do does not increase the landslide risk. You can do this by having a landslide risk assessment undertaken by a suitably qualified practitioner.
  • Learn how to recognise initial signs of landslide – these may include:
    • Movement of structures such as decks and patios;
    • Sticking doors and windows, indicating shifted frames and jambs;
    • Tilting or cracking of concrete floors and foundations;
    • Offset fences or retaining walls;
    • Breaks in services, such as water pipes and sewers;
    • Long, continuous cracks (often curved) opening in the ground; and
    • Ground subsiding in some parts and possibly rising in others.
Advice before a landslide

During

If you find yourself in an area of identified landslide hazard, be aware that during storms, sudden impact landslides may occur.

  • Alert appropriate officials if a landslide movement has occurred or is expected to happen.
  • Alert neighbours, especially those downslope, as they may also be affected by the landslide.
  • If initial signs of a landslide are developing rapidly, then leave the area.
Advice during a landslide

After

  • Stay clear of unstable areas, which can continue to expand in all directions.
  • Expect ongoing movement of a slide or continuing falls or flows of material.
  • If you’ve been affected by the landslide, turn off water, gas and electricity if affected by the landslide.
  • Ensure others are aware of the danger, for example, rock fall onto a road.

For further information go to:

  • the Geological Hazards section of www.mrt.tas.gov.au
  • the SES website's Landslide Preparation page
Advice after a landslide

Hazards