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What Storm Season Preparedness Steps Should Homeowners Take?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Your roof is your first defense against storm water. Look for missing or lifted shingles, cracked flashing around chimneys and vents, and any areas where the roof sags. Small problems can turn into leaks during heavy rain, so make repairs before the season turns wet.

Clean gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris. If water backs up in the gutters, it can overflow and soak the siding or foundation. Check that downspouts direct water at least a few feet away from the house. Keeping this routine before each rainy season helps manage wet winters.

  • Check roof shingles for gaps or lifting
  • Clean gutters and downspouts of debris
  • Inspect flashing around chimneys and vents
  • Confirm downspouts direct water away from the foundation

Clear Your Yard and Drainage

Storm water needs a clear path to flow away from your home. Remove branches, leaves, and yard waste that can block drains or catch in gutters. Trim trees near the house so limbs do not break and damage the roof during wind.

Look at the grading around your foundation. The ground should slope away from the house so water does not pool against the walls. If you notice low spots, add soil to create a gentle slope. This simple step helps keep basements and crawl spaces drier.

  • Remove leaves and yard waste from drains
  • Trim tree limbs that hang over the roof
  • Check that ground slopes away from the foundation
  • Clear debris from window wells and stairwells

Prepare Inside the Home

Inside, focus on the areas most likely to see water. Check the seals around windows and doors for gaps or worn weather stripping. A small draft can become a leak during a driving rain. Replace any cracked caulk around bathtubs, showers, and sinks.

Know where your main water shutoff valve is and make sure it turns easily. If a pipe bursts during a storm, you can stop the flow quickly. Also keep a flashlight and a few towels stored near the valve so you are ready to act fast.

Protect Your Belongings

Move valuable items, important papers, and electronics off the basement floor or away from exterior walls where water could seep in. Store documents in a waterproof container or a sealed plastic bag. This keeps them dry if water makes it inside.

Consider raising items like furniture and boxes on pallets or shelves in areas prone to dampness. If you have a sump pump, test it before the season starts by pouring water into the pit and watching it cycle on and off. A working pump can make a big difference during heavy rain.

Make an Action Plan

Write down the steps you will take if water enters your home. Include where you will move furniture, which items need to be saved first, and how you will shut off power if water reaches outlets. Share this plan with everyone in the household so they know what to do.

Keep a list of local water damage pros handy. If a storm causes flooding, you will want to act quickly to reduce damage. Your insurance company can also be contacted after the storm, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Focus on getting the water out and drying things down.

  • Know the location of your water shutoff valve
  • Keep a flashlight and towels ready near the valve
  • Move valuable items off basement floors
  • Test your sump pump before the season starts

Water damage does not wait

Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.

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Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if my roof has a leak before a storm?

Look for water stains on ceilings or walls, especially after a heavy rain. Check the attic for damp insulation or dark spots on the wood. You can also use a hose to spray a small area of the roof while someone watches inside for drips.

What should I do if water starts coming in during a storm?

Stay safe first. If water reaches electrical outlets, shut off the power at the breaker. Move furniture and valuables to a dry area. Use towels or a mop to soak up small amounts, and call local water damage pros once the storm passes.

Are gutter guards worth installing for storm season?

Gutter guards can reduce how often you need to clean gutters, but they do not eliminate the need. Leaves can still pile on top, and some guards let smaller debris through. If you install them, check the gutters once or twice a year to make sure water flows freely.

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