8 Things Southern California Homeowners Should Do Before Rainy Season

Southern California doesn't get much rain, so one of the most common mistakes homeowners make is waiting until there's a leak to start looking for problems.

Roofs, drainage, and windows usually don't fail the day it rains. The cracks, clogs, and aging were already there. You just couldn't see them in dry weather. Spending half a day checking things before the rainy season is usually far cheaper than opening walls and fixing ceilings after a leak.

I also suggest getting started while it's still dry. By fall and winter, roofers and other contractors are often booked up, and you may not be able to get someone out quickly. Here's my 8-item list for homeowners.

1. Clean gutters and downspouts

When leaves and dirt clog your gutters, water can't drain and may back up into the eaves, the fascia, or even inside your walls. Clean the gutters, make sure the downspouts are clear, and check that the outlets direct water away from the foundation.

2. Look at the roof

You don't have to climb up yourself. Look from the ground first, or have a roofer check for broken or loose tiles, cracks, and obvious problems around the flashing.

3. Check skylights

A leaking skylight often isn't a broken pane. Many leaks come from aging sealant and flashing around the edges. Water stains on the ceiling around a skylight are an easy clue to watch for.

4. Clear yard drains

Especially the drains on your patio, side yard, and driveway. Clear out leaves and soil, then pour some water in to make sure it actually drains.

5. In a condo or townhome? Ask your HOA first

Your HOA may be responsible for the roof, but don't wait for a leak to ask for the first time. Find out whether the roof was inspected and maintained this year, who to call if there's a problem, and how the repair request process works.

6. Trim branches near the roof and power lines

In heavy wind and rain, branches can scrape the roof, clog gutters, or even contact power lines, turning a small issue into a big one. Don't trim branches near power lines yourself. Leave that to professionals.

7. Check exterior seals on doors and windows

Look for cracked or missing caulking, especially above window frames and at the corners. It's an inexpensive fix that's often overlooked.

8. In low-lying areas, get sandbags ready early

If your home sits in a low spot or an area prone to pooling water, don't wait until the day of a big storm to find sandbags. Look up how your city or fire department distributes them, and plan your tools and where you'd place them ahead of time.

A safety reminder

Don't climb onto the roof yourself when it's raining, when the roof is wet or slippery, or without proper safety gear. Many checks can be done from the ground. For anything that requires going up on the roof, hire a licensed and insured professional.

Small problems can turn into big bills

Each of these eight items looks minor. But a single serious leak can bring drywall damage, flooring replacement, mold, and an insurance claim all at once. So before the rainy season, don't just watch the forecast. Check whether your house is ready.

If you've recently bought a home, especially an older one, save this list and work through it item by item. It's also a good time to pull out your original inspection report and see what the inspector flagged about the roof and drainage.

Homeowner checklist

[ ] Clean gutters and downspouts
[ ] Check roof tiles, flashing, cracks, and loose pieces
[ ] Check seals around skylights
[ ] Clear yard, patio, and driveway drains
[ ] Condo/townhome: ask your HOA about roof inspection and repair requests
[ ] Trim branches near the roof; leave branches near power lines to pros
[ ] Check exterior caulking on windows and doors
[ ] In flood-prone spots, prepare sandbags and plan where to place them

Need a contractor referral?

If you recently bought in Los Angeles or Southern California and want help looking over your roof and drainage, reach out. I can help you put together what to check.