A storm-season walkaround

Thirty minutes outside before the rainy season can save weeks of drying later. Take your phone and photograph anything you want a contractor to look at.

The walk

1. Gutters and downspouts clear, downspouts discharging away from the house.
2. Deck drains and scuppers free of leaves and sand.
3. Window and slider weep holes clear.
4. Stucco cracks noted, especially around windows.
5. Deck coating free of bubbles and cracks.
6. Soil and mulch pulled back from the walls.
7. Yard drains tested with a hose.

Inside

• Main shutoff found and tested.
• Ceilings under decks checked for old stains.

Paperwork

Review your homeowners and flood coverage. Ready.gov notes a new flood policy typically takes up to 30 days to become effective.

Sources, accessed Oct 16 to 17, 2026: Ready.gov: Floods · FloodSmart (NFIP)