Seasonal rural property checklist
A practical prompt for regular inspections. Adapt it to the property, stock, weather and supplier requirements.
Water
- Check tanks, lids, overflows and visible contamination
- Walk visible pipe routes for wet spots or erosion
- Check trough levels, floats, guards and stable surrounds
- Note pump noise, cycling or pressure changes
- Clean accessible filters only as the manufacturer directs
Drainage and access
- Clear safe, accessible debris from drain inlets
- Look for blocked culverts, erosion and soft shoulders
- Record potholes, rutting and areas holding water
- Check emergency and heavy-vehicle access
- Photograph changes after significant rain
Vegetation and boundaries
- Identify weeds before they seed or spread
- Review vegetation around access, drains and structures
- Check gates, rails, posts and strainers
- Plan fire-risk vegetation work for suitable conditions
Record and plan
- Date and photograph each issue
- Mark urgent safety, stock-water or access problems
- Group small jobs that can be handled in one visit
- Recheck earlier repairs and recurring problems
Stop and seek suitable help for unstable banks, floodwater, contaminated water, electrical faults, confined spaces, hazardous chemicals, moving machinery, or work near unknown underground or overhead services.