Water damage affects thousands of Orange County homeowners each year, leading to expensive repairs and potential health hazards. Getting to know the main causes of water damage and taking preventive steps can save property owners from costly restoration work and protect their investment.

From leaking pipes and roof damage to severe weather events and appliance failures, Orange County homes face unique risks due to the region's climate and aging infrastructure. Most water damage incidents can be prevented with regular maintenance and awareness of common problem areas.

• Top 10 Causes of Water Damage

• Hidden Plumbing Failures

• Common Appliance Leaks

• Roofing and Attic Water

• Improper Drainage

• Foundation and Slab Leak

• Natural Disasters

• Final Thoughts

What are the Top 10 Causes of Water Damage?

The following problems lead to water damage in Orange County homes:

1. Leaking or burst pipes - Pipes can develop leaks at joints or connections over time. Frozen pipes burst when temperatures drop suddenly.

2. Plumbing fixture failures - Toilets, faucets, and water heaters can leak and cause damage. Worn seals and faulty components often create problems.

3. Roof leaks - Damaged shingles, improper flashing, or poor installation allow water inside during rain. Missing roof materials create entry points for moisture.

4. Appliance malfunctions - Washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators can overflow or leak. Water heater failures can lead to significant flooding and expensive repairs.

5. Clogged gutters and drains - Blocked gutters cause water to pool on roofs and around foundations. Indoor drain clogs create backups and overflows.

6. HVAC system issues - Air conditioning units produce condensation that can leak without proper maintenance. Damaged ductwork may also contribute to moisture problems.

7. Sewer backups - Clogged or damaged sewer lines force sewage back into homes. These situations create health hazards along with property damage.

8. Foundation cracks - Gaps in foundation walls let water seep into basements. High water tables and heavy rainfall make this problem worse.

9. Storm and flood damage - Heavy rains, hurricanes, and melting snow cause water intrusion. Natural disasters can result in catastrophic flooding that affects entire neighborhoods.

10. Poor maintenance habits - Ignoring warning signs allows small leaks to become major problems. Delaying repairs increases damage and costs over time.

Hidden Plumbing Failures and Pipe Bursts

Plumbing systems hidden behind walls and under floors can fail without warning, causing thousands of dollars in water damage. Corroded pipes, pressure surges, and undetected leaks often go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred.

Aging Pipes and Corroded Fittings

Older homes in Orange County often contain galvanized steel or copper pipes that deteriorate over time. These materials can last 40-70 years, but corrosion begins much earlier.

Acidic water gradually breaks down pipe seals, connectors, and metal surfaces from the inside. Hard water common in Southern California creates mineral buildup that restricts flow and increases pressure on weakened sections.

Common signs of aging plumbing include:

• Discolored water with rust particles

• Reduced water pressure throughout the home

• Visible corrosion on exposed pipes

• Frequent small leaks at joints and connections

Homeowners should inspect exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and under sinks regularly. Any signs of rust, green staining on copper, or moisture around fittings indicate problems that need attention before they cause major water damage.

Burst Pipes in Walls and Slabs

A burst pipe hidden inside walls or beneath concrete slabs can release hundreds of gallons before anyone notices. These plumbing failures happen when pressure builds beyond what weakened pipes can handle.

Sudden temperature changes rarely affect Orange County homes, but pressure spikes from water hammer or closed valves strain compromised pipes. Slab leaks occur when pipes embedded in concrete foundations corrode or shift with ground movement.

Warning signs include unexplained increases in water bills, warm spots on floors, or the sound of running water when all fixtures are off. Damp baseboards, buckled flooring, and ceiling stains point to active leaks causing structural damage.

When a homeowner suspects hidden plumbing issues, shutting off the main water valve prevents additional damage. Professional inspection with leak detection equipment locates problems without unnecessary demolition.

Plumbing Maintenance and Leak Detection

Regular maintenance catches small plumbing issues before they become expensive emergencies. Professional plumbers can pressure test systems and inspect hidden areas that homeowners cannot easily access.

Annual inspections should include checking water heater connections, supply lines to appliances, and any accessible pipe sections for corrosion. Testing water pressure helps identify levels above 80 PSI that stress pipes and increase failure risk.

Smart leak detection systems monitor water flow and shut off supply automatically when unusual patterns suggest leaks. These devices provide protection when no one is home to notice emergency plumbing problems developing.

Homeowners should also know where their main shutoff valve is located and test it yearly to confirm it operates properly. A valve that won't close completely during an emergency allows water damage to continue until a plumber arrives for water damage restoration work.

Common Appliance Leaks and Malfunctions

Household appliances that use water connections rank among the top causes of residential water damage. Worn-out hoses, faulty connections, and aging components can lead to expensive repairs if not caught early.

Washing Machines and Dishwashers

Washing machines cause water damage through failed supply hoses, damaged door seals, and overflowing drain lines. The rubber hoses that connect to water supply lines typically last five to seven years before they crack or bulge. Homeowners should inspect these hoses every six months for signs of wear.

Dishwashers leak from worn door gaskets, loose water line connections, and clogged drain systems. Appliance malfunctions occur when components break down over time. The drain hose connection under the sink often loosens and causes slow leaks that go unnoticed.

Regular maintenance helps prevent these issues. Replace supply hoses with braided stainless steel versions that resist cracking. Check for puddles around appliances after each use and tighten any loose connections immediately.

Refrigerator Water Lines

Refrigerators with ice makers and water dispensers rely on plastic or copper supply lines that can crack or disconnect. These lines run behind the appliance where leaks remain hidden until significant damage occurs. Temperature changes cause plastic lines to become brittle and split over time.

The water filter housing also develops leaks when filters are not changed regularly or installed incorrectly. Homeowners should inspect the area behind and under their refrigerator every few months. Look for water stains on walls or floors that indicate an ongoing leak causing water damage.

Water Heaters

Water heaters develop leaks from corroded tanks, faulty pressure relief valves, and loose drain valves. Traditional tank models typically last 8 to 12 years in Orange County homes before the tank begins to rust through. Sediment buildup accelerates corrosion and reduces the lifespan of the unit.

The temperature and pressure relief valve releases water when pressure builds too high. A dripping valve signals that replacement is needed soon. Professional tank water heater repair addresses these issues before they cause flooding.

Homeowners should drain their water heater annually to remove sediment. Check for rust stains or moisture around the base of the tank monthly. Comparing tankless versus traditional water heaters helps when considering replacement options. Understanding water heater lifespan allows for proactive replacement before catastrophic failure occurs.

Roofing and Attic Water Intrusion

Roof problems and attic moisture issues create some of the most expensive water damage in Orange County homes. Missing shingles, poor ventilation, and hidden leaks allow water to penetrate homes and cause serious harm to wood structures.

Damaged Shingles and Flashing

Broken or missing shingles create direct entry points for rainwater to enter the attic space. Wind, age, and sun exposure weaken roofing materials over time. Compromised flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights allows water to seep beneath the roofing system.

Cracked vent boots and deteriorated sealant also contribute to roofing system failures. During Orange County's rainy season, even small gaps can let in significant amounts of water. Homeowners should schedule annual roof inspections to identify problems early.

Regular gutter cleaning prevents water from backing up under the roofline. Replacing damaged shingles promptly stops small problems from becoming major repairs. Professional roofers can spot subtle signs of wear that homeowners might miss.

Attic Condensation and Insulation

Warm, moist air from bathrooms and kitchens rises into attics and contacts cold roof surfaces. This temperature difference creates condensation that drips onto insulation and wood framing. Poor attic ventilation traps humid air inside and accelerates the problem.

Blocked soffit vents and ridge vents prevent proper airflow through the attic space. Saturated insulation loses its ability to regulate temperature and becomes heavy. Wet insulation materials must be removed and replaced to prevent mold growth and restore energy efficiency.

Bathroom exhaust fans that vent into the attic instead of outside introduce excess moisture. Homeowners should ensure all ventilation systems discharge directly outdoors. Sealing air leaks around light fixtures and plumbing penetrations stops humid air from entering the attic.

Undetected Roof Leaks

Many roof leaks go unnoticed because attics remain out of sight for months or years. Water stains on ceilings below the attic appear as brown or yellow discoloration. Water spots on ceilings signal that moisture has already penetrated multiple layers of materials.

A musty smell indicates mold or mildew growing on damp wood and insulation. Dark streaks on rafters and joists show where water has traveled through the attic. Soft or spongy areas on the roof deck mean rot has begun causing structural damage.

Homeowners should inspect attics twice yearly with a flashlight to check for moisture problems. Early detection prevents minor leaks from becoming major repairs. Professional water damage specialists can identify hidden moisture with thermal imaging cameras.

Gutters, Downspouts, and Improper Drainage

Water that doesn't drain properly away from a home can cause serious damage to foundations, walls, and basements. Orange County homes face unique challenges with seasonal rainfall that can quickly overwhelm poorly maintained drainage systems.

Clogged Gutters

Leaves, twigs, dirt, and debris build up inside gutters and block water from flowing through the system. When gutters become clogged, rainwater spills over the edges instead of moving toward downspouts.

This overflow dumps water directly next to the foundation. The soil becomes saturated and water seeps into crawl spaces or through foundation cracks.

Signs of clogged gutters include:

• Water spilling over gutter edges during rain

• Sagging or pulling away from the roofline

• Plant growth inside gutters

• Staining on siding below gutters

Homeowners should clean gutters at least twice per year, typically in spring and fall. Installing gutter guards reduces debris accumulation but doesn't eliminate the need for regular inspections.

Blocked Downspouts

Downspouts carry water from gutters down to ground level and away from the home. Blocked downspouts prevent the entire drainage system from working properly, even when gutters are clean.

Debris can pack tightly inside downspouts and create complete blockages. Water backs up into the gutters and eventually overflows.

Testing downspouts is simple by running a hose into the gutter opening. Water should flow freely out the bottom. If it doesn't, the blockage needs removal using a plumber's snake or by disconnecting sections.

Downspout extensions should direct water at least 5 to 10 feet away from the foundation. Short extensions or missing splash blocks dump water right next to the home where it can pool and cause basement flooding.

Poor Perimeter Grading

The slope of soil around a home determines where rainwater flows after it hits the ground. Ground that slopes toward the foundation creates standing water against walls and increases pressure on basement walls.

Proper grading requires a slope of at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet away from the foundation. Many Orange County properties have settled over time or were never graded correctly during construction.

Poor grading combines with other drainage problems to accelerate water damage. French drains installed around the perimeter can redirect groundwater, but they work best when surface grading is also correct.

Homeowners can improve grading by adding soil near the foundation and sloping it away. Large grading problems may require professional water drainage solutions to protect the home's structure.

Foundation and Slab Leak Hazards

Orange County homes face specific risks from foundation damage and underground pipe leaks that can compromise structural integrity and create expensive repair bills. The region's shifting soil conditions and hard water quality make these problems particularly common for local homeowners.

Cracked Foundations

Foundation cracks develop when soil beneath a home expands or contracts due to moisture changes. Orange County's clay-rich soil is especially prone to this movement during dry summers and wet winters.

Water enters through these cracks and creates damage inside walls, floors, and basements. Small hairline cracks may seem harmless at first but can widen over time. Once water penetrates the foundation, it leads to mold growth, wood rot, and weakened structural support.

Common signs of foundation problems include:

• Visible cracks in walls or floors

• Doors and windows that stick or won't close properly

• Uneven or sloping floors

• Gaps between walls and ceilings

Poor drainage around the home accelerates foundation issues. Gutters that dump water near the house or grading that slopes toward the foundation creates constant pressure on concrete. Installing proper drainage systems and maintaining gutters prevents water from pooling near the foundation.

Slab Leaks Beneath Floors

Slab leaks occur when pipes under concrete foundations begin leaking water into the surrounding soil and foundation. These hidden leaks often go undetected for weeks or months while causing significant structural damage.

Pipe corrosion is the leading cause of leaks beneath concrete slabs. Copper and galvanized steel pipes deteriorate faster in areas with hard water. High water pressure weakens pipe walls and creates stress points that eventually fail.

Homeowners notice warm spots on floors when hot water lines leak beneath the slab. Water bills spike unexpectedly even when usage habits haven't changed. Damp carpets, reduced water pressure, and mildew odors also indicate potential problems.

Professional detection uses thermal imaging and acoustic listening devices to locate leaks without breaking up large sections of flooring. Repair options range from spot repairs for single leaks to complete repiping for older systems with differences between slab and pinhole leaks requiring different approaches.

Severe Storms, Floods, and Natural Disasters

Orange County homes face significant threats from extreme weather events that bring excessive water into properties. These natural disasters can overwhelm a home's defenses and cause damage ranging from minor leaks to complete structural failure.

Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flooding

Flash floods combine the destructive power of flooding with incredible speed, making them among the most dangerous types of water damage events. They occur when heavy rainfall exceeds the ground's ability to absorb it.

In Orange County, intense or prolonged precipitation can overwhelm drainage systems and cause water to accumulate in low-lying areas. Streets turn into rivers within minutes. Water finds its way into homes through foundations, windows, and doors.

Common entry points during heavy rainfall include:

• Foundation cracks and gaps

• Basement window wells

• Garage door thresholds

• Roof valleys and damaged shingles

• Overwhelmed gutter systems

Homeowners should install sump pumps in basements and crawl spaces to remove accumulating water. Regular gutter cleaning prevents overflow that can seep into walls. Grading soil away from the foundation directs water away from the home's structure.

Hurricanes and Extreme Weather

Hurricanes and tropical storms produce large areas of intense rainfall that often lead to regional flooding. These powerful systems bring torrential rains and strong winds that can result in widespread damage.

Storm surges push seawater inland, compounding the destruction in coastal areas. Wind-driven rain can penetrate even small openings in a home's exterior. Natural disasters such as hurricanes can overwhelm drainage systems and lead to significant water damage requiring extensive repairs.

Property owners should secure outdoor items before storms arrive. Installing storm shutters protects windows from breaking. Sealing exterior cracks prevents water intrusion during wind-driven rain events.

Flood insurance becomes necessary since standard homeowner policies typically exclude flood damage. Many homeowners discover this gap in coverage only after disaster strikes. Water damage restoration services can address problems quickly, but prevention remains less costly than repairs.

HVAC System Leaks and Condensation Problems

Air conditioning systems produce 20 to 50 gallons of water daily through normal operation. When drainage systems fail or humidity levels climb too high, this moisture can quickly damage walls, ceilings, and floors.

Air Conditioning Drain and Pan Issues

The evaporator coil inside an HVAC unit pulls moisture from warm indoor air as it cools. This water collects in a drain pan beneath the coil and flows through a condensate line to exit the home.

Common drain system failures include:

• Clogged condensate lines from algae, mold, and debris buildup

• Cracked or rusted drain pans that leak water onto ceilings

• Missing or broken condensate traps that prevent proper drainage

• Failed condensate pumps in systems where gravity drainage isn't possible

Blocked drain lines rank as the most frequent problem in Orange County homes. The warm, damp environment inside these pipes creates perfect conditions for algae and mold growth that can completely obstruct water flow within months.

A secondary drain pan provides backup protection for attic-mounted units. Systems without this safety feature risk significant water damage when the primary pan fails or overflows.

Professional maintenance every six months keeps drain lines clear and pans intact. Homeowners can pour a cup of vinegar down the condensate line quarterly to slow biological growth between service visits.

High Indoor Humidity Effects

Excessive indoor humidity creates condensation on cold surfaces throughout the home, including ductwork and AC components. When moisture levels stay above 60 percent, water droplets form on uninsulated ducts and metal surfaces.

Poorly insulated ductwork in attics particularly suffers from this sweating effect. Warm attic air contacts cold supply ducts, causing condensation to drip onto insulation and ceilings below. HVAC moisture control problems worsen in coastal areas where ocean breezes bring additional humidity.

An oversized AC unit compounds humidity issues by cooling rooms too quickly. The system shuts off before completing adequate dehumidification, leaving indoor air damp and uncomfortable.

Signs of humidity-related HVAC problems:

• Water stains on ceilings near supply vents

• Musty odors when the system runs

• Visible moisture on ductwork in attic spaces

• Windows fogging up during cooling cycles

Dehumidifiers help control moisture levels when AC systems can't keep up. Proper duct insulation prevents condensation on cold surfaces. Regular filter changes maintain airflow that allows the evaporator coil to remove moisture effectively from indoor air.

Sewage Backups and Drain Blockages

Sewage problems rank among the most damaging plumbing issues a homeowner can face, combining water damage with serious health hazards. Blocked drains and failing drainage systems allow contaminated water to flow back into living spaces, creating expensive and dangerous situations.

Causes of Sewage Overflows

Aging sewer lines deteriorate over time, especially older clay or cast iron pipes that crack and collapse. Tree roots seek out moisture and grow into sewer lines through tiny cracks, creating major blockages that restrict or completely stop wastewater flow.

Improperly disposed items cause frequent Orange County drain clogs that lead to backups. Grease poured down kitchen sinks solidifies inside pipes, while items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels create stubborn blockages. Hair combined with soap residue forms dense clogs in bathroom drains.

Heavy rainfall overwhelms municipal sewer systems, forcing wastewater back through connected pipes into homes. A blocked main sewer line affects multiple properties simultaneously.

Preventing Blockages and Backflow

Regular inspection of sewer lines helps catch problems before they cause flood damage. Professional camera inspections identify cracks, root intrusion, and developing blockages that need attention.

Proper disposal habits protect drainage systems from unnecessary strain. Never pour cooking oil or grease down drains, and dispose of wipes and hygiene products in trash receptacles. Install hair catchers in shower and tub drains to prevent buildup.

Sewage disposal systems benefit from professional maintenance every one to two years. Plumbers can clear developing clogs and remove tree roots before they cause backups.

Backflow prevention devices stop contaminated water from flowing backward into homes during heavy storms. Sump pumps with battery backup provide protection when municipal systems become overwhelmed. Consider replacing old sewer lines with modern PVC materials that resist root penetration and corrosion.

Basement Flooding and Sump Pump Failures

Basements in Orange County homes face flooding risks from inadequate waterproofing and faulty pump systems. These problems often lead to expensive repairs and mold growth when left unaddressed.

Improper or Absent Sump Pumps

Many Orange County homes lack properly functioning sump pumps or have no pump installed at all. Without a working pump, water collects in basements during heavy rainfall or plumbing emergencies.

Sump pump failures happen for several reasons. Clogs from debris block the discharge pipe and prevent water from flowing out. Power outages during storms leave pumps unable to operate unless a battery backup exists.

Common pump problems include:

• Stuck on/off switches that prevent proper operation

• Motor burnout from overuse or poor quality components

• Wrong pump size for the home's needs

• Frozen discharge pipes in winter months

Homeowners should test their pump every three months by pouring water into the pit. The float switch should trigger and the pump should remove water quickly. Regular cleaning removes dirt and debris that cause clogs.

A professional plumber can determine the correct pump size based on basement square footage and typical rainfall amounts. Most pumps last 7 to 10 years before requiring replacement.

Inadequate Basement Waterproofing

Poor waterproofing allows water to seep through foundation walls and floors. Cracks in concrete provide entry points for groundwater, especially during Orange County's rainy season from November through March.

Missing or damaged drainage systems around the foundation contribute to basement flooding problems. Water pools near the home's base instead of flowing away from the structure. Interior waterproofing membranes degrade over time and lose effectiveness.

Effective waterproofing includes:

• Exterior drain tiles that channel water away from foundations

• Sealed foundation cracks and joints

• Interior drainage systems connected to sump pumps

• Vapor barriers on walls and floors

Property owners should inspect their basement walls for dampness, white mineral deposits, or musty odors. These signs indicate water penetration that needs immediate attention. Water damage restoration professionals can assess the extent of existing damage and recommend appropriate solutions.

Structural Issues and Long-Term Consequences

Water penetration weakens building materials and creates conditions for mold to thrive, leading to expensive repairs and health hazards. These problems often go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred.

Mold Growth and Remediation

Mold begins developing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure in damp, dark environments. It spreads quickly through walls, ceilings, and flooring, releasing spores that cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions. Homeowners often discover mold growth behind walls and under flooring where moisture has accumulated.

Professional remediation becomes necessary when mold covers areas larger than 10 square feet. Specialists use containment barriers and HEPA filtration systems to prevent spore spread during removal. They apply antimicrobial treatments and replace contaminated materials like drywall and insulation.

Water damage restoration requires immediate action to prevent colonies from establishing. Drying equipment such as industrial dehumidifiers and air movers must run continuously for several days. Property owners should never attempt to clean extensive mold themselves, as improper handling releases dangerous concentrations of spores into living spaces.

Decay of Building Materials

Water weakens structural components through rot, corrosion, and deterioration. Wooden framing members absorb moisture and become soft, losing their load-bearing capacity. Metal fasteners and support beams rust when exposed to prolonged dampness, compromising the building's stability.

Foundation cracks allow water infiltration that undermines concrete and creates settling problems. Drywall becomes soft and crumbles, while ceiling materials sag from absorbed water weight. Flooring warps, buckles, and separates as moisture penetrates subflooring layers.

Insulation loses its effectiveness when saturated, promoting condensation and further material breakdown. Electrical systems face increased fire risks from corroded wiring and wet connections. Structural damage worsens over time without intervention, requiring increasingly expensive repairs that could have been avoided with prompt treatment.

Final Thoughts

Water damage remains one of the most common and costly problems for Orange County homeowners. Taking action before issues develop can save thousands of dollars in repairs.

Regular maintenance makes a real difference. Inspecting plumbing fixtures, checking roof conditions, and cleaning gutters can prevent most water damage incidents.

Homeowners should focus on the areas that cause the most problems. Plumbing leaks, appliance failures, and clogged drains top the list of preventable issues.

Simple prevention steps include:

• Installing leak detection systems

• Insulating pipes in unheated areas

• Replacing worn appliance hoses every few years

• Keeping drains clear of debris

• Maintaining proper grading around the foundation

Even with proactive measures and awareness, some incidents still happen. Having a plan and knowing who to call during emergencies helps minimize damage.

Property owners should review their insurance coverage regularly. Understanding what their policy covers before disaster strikes makes the claims process smoother.

Small leaks often lead to bigger problems when ignored. Addressing minor issues quickly prevents them from becoming major repairs. The investment in prevention is always less than the cost of restoration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What steps can be taken to minimize the risk of water damage due to plumbing failures?

Regular plumbing inspections help catch problems before they become serious. A licensed plumber should check pipes, connections, and fixtures at least once a year.

Homeowners should know where the main water shut-off valve is located and how to use it. Installing water leak detectors near water heaters, washing machines, and under sinks provides early warning of problems.

Older homes with aging pipes may benefit from pipe replacement or relining. Insulating exposed pipes protects them from temperature changes that can cause bursts.

What are effective strategies for protecting a home from water damage during heavy rainfall?

Clean gutters and downspouts remove leaves and debris that block water flow. Downspouts should direct water at least five feet away from the foundation.

Installing a sump pump in the basement or crawl space removes water that accumulates during storms. Proper landscaping to facilitate water runoff prevents pooling near the home's foundation.

Sealing cracks in the foundation and around windows stops water from entering the home. Grade soil so it slopes away from the house rather than toward it.

How can homeowners identify and mitigate the risks of appliance-related water leaks?

Check hoses on washing machines and dishwashers every six months for cracks, bulges, or wear. Replace rubber hoses with stainless steel braided hoses that last longer and resist breaking.

Water heaters should be inspected annually for rust, corrosion, or moisture around the base. Most water heaters need replacement after 10-12 years of use.

Turn off water supply valves to appliances when leaving home for extended periods. Place water heaters in drain pans connected to floor drains to catch leaks before they spread.

What should be done immediately after detecting water damage to prevent further issues?

Stop the water source if possible and turn off electricity in affected areas. Safety comes first when dealing with standing water near electrical outlets or appliances.

Remove standing water using mops, towels, or a wet vacuum. Open windows and use fans to increase air circulation and start the drying process.

Document the damage with photos and videos for insurance claims. Contact a water damage restoration company within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.

In what ways can landscaping be utilized to reduce the likelihood of water damage?

Rain gardens collect and absorb runoff from roofs and driveways. These shallow depressions planted with native plants filter water naturally before it reaches the foundation.

French drains redirect water away from the home using perforated pipes buried in gravel-filled trenches. Strategic placement of trees and shrubs slows water flow across the property.

Permeable paving materials allow water to soak into the ground rather than running toward the house. Swales or shallow ditches guide water to appropriate drainage areas.

How often should home water damage prevention measures be reviewed and updated?

Inspect prevention systems twice a year, ideally before and after the rainy season. Check sump pumps, gutters, drainage systems, and weatherstripping during these reviews.

Update prevention measures after any significant weather event or home renovation. Changes to the property's grading, additions, or new landscaping may require adjustments to drainage plans.

Test sump pumps monthly by pouring water into the pit to make sure they activate properly. Replace smoke detector batteries at the same time as a reminder to check water damage prevention systems.